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Magnetics for Power Electronic Converters

Dr. Robert Erickson

This course can also be taken for academic credit as ECEA 5703, part of CU Boulder’s Master of Science in Electrical Engineering degree.

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This course can also be taken for academic credit as ECEA 5703, part of CU Boulder’s Master of Science in Electrical Engineering degree.

This course covers the analysis and design of magnetic components, including inductors and transformers, used in power electronic converters. The course starts with an introduction to physical principles behind inductors and transformers, including the concepts of inductance, core material saturation, airgap and energy storage in inductors, reluctance and magnetic circuit modeling, transformer equivalent circuits, magnetizing and leakage inductance. Multi-winding transformer models are also developed, including inductance matrix representation, for series and parallel structures. Modeling of losses in magnetic components covers core and winding losses, including skin and proximity effects. Finally, a complete procedure is developed for design optimization of inductors in switched-mode power converters.  

After completing this course, you will:

- Understand the fundamentals of magnetic components, including inductors and transformers

- Be able to analyze and model losses in magnetic components, and understand design trade-offs 

- Know how to design and optimize inductors and transformers for switched-mode power converters

This course assumes prior completion of courses 1 and 2: Introduction to Power Electronics, and Converter Circuits.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Basic Magnetics
Magnetics are an integral part of every switching converter. Often, the design of the magnetic devices cannot be isolated from the converter design. The power electronics engineer must not only model and design the converter, but must model and design the magnetics as well. Modeling and design of magnetics for switching converters is the topic of this course. In this module, basic magnetics theory is reviewed, including magnetic circuits, inductor modeling, and transformer modeling. This provides the technical tools needed in the remainder of the course to understand operation of magnetic devices, model their losses, and design magnetic devices for switching converters.
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Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
This course is also offered for academic credit as part of CU Boulder’s Master of Science in Electrical Engineering degree
Taught by Dr. Robert Erickson, a leading researcher in power electronics and magnetic components
Covers advanced topics such as modeling of losses in magnetic components and design optimization of inductors in switched-mode power converters
Requires prior completion of courses 1 and 2: Introduction to Power Electronics, and Converter Circuits
Assumes a strong foundation in electrical engineering and power electronics
May be challenging for beginners or those with limited background in power electronics

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Reviews summary

Practical magnetics for power electronics design

According to learners, this course provides a strong theoretical foundation and practical design procedures for magnetic components in power electronic converters. Students particularly praise the instructor's clear explanations of complex topics like skin and proximity effects and design optimization. The design examples are very helpful for applying concepts. However, some learners feel the assignments could benefit from more hands-on simulation or real-world industrial context, and a few noted the pace can be challenging or the delivery dry, especially for multi-winding transformer models. The course assumes strong prior knowledge in power electronics, making prerequisites crucial for success.
Varied opinions on the instructor's teaching style.
"The instructor's explanations are incredibly clear, especially for complex topics like skin and proximity effects."
"I struggled with the pace. The instructor's delivery was hard to follow in some parts of the course."
"I struggled with the lack of clarity in certain explanations, especially regarding design optimization techniques."
Assumes strong foundational knowledge in power electronics.
"Prerequisites are essential, so definitely take the prior courses on power electronics for a better understanding."
"The course assumes a strong prior knowledge of power electronics, which is absolutely necessary to follow along."
"It's definitely not for beginners, even with the prerequisites mentioned, you need to be solid on them."
Focuses on designing inductors and transformers for converters.
"The design procedures for inductors are very practical and can be immediately applied in my work."
"I appreciate the focus on design optimization for switched-mode converters; it's highly relevant."
"The design examples were very helpful for understanding how to apply the concepts to real circuits."
Provides a deep understanding of core magnetic principles.
"This course provides a strong theoretical foundation for magnetic component design."
"The theoretical concepts are well-explained, and the magnetic circuit modeling is thorough."
"I finally understood how to tackle core and winding losses effectively from this course."
Suggestions for more hands-on and real-world exercises.
"I found the assignments could have benefited from more hands-on simulation or practical examples beyond calculations."
"Some of the examples are quite academic and could use more real-world industrial application context."
"It feels like a traditional textbook translated directly to video lectures without much adaptation for online learning."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Magnetics for Power Electronic Converters with these activities:
Review Basic Principles of Electricity
Reviewing basic principles of electricity will help you refresh prerequisites and be better prepared for the course
Browse courses on Electricity
Show steps
  • Review Ohm's Law, Kirchhoff's Laws, and basic circuit analysis techniques
  • Solve practice problems on basic circuit analysis
Introductory Power Electronics
Preparing by reading this book should help you learn background materials and familiarize you with the subject
View Power Electronics on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read chapters 1-3
  • Complete exercises provided at the end of each chapter
  • Review example problems throughout the chapters
Learn about Inductors and Transformers
Watching these videos should help you get a good introduction to the role and function of inductors and transformers, and their usage in power electronic converters
Browse courses on Inductors
Show steps
  • Watch videos provided by MIT OpenCourseWare on Inductors and Transformers
  • Complete quizzes and exercises provided by the tutorials
Nine other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 12 activities
Practice Magnetic Circuit Calculations
These practice problems will help you develop a strong understanding of magnetic circuits and their behavior.
Browse courses on Magnetic Circuits
Show steps
  • Solve practice problems on magnetic circuit calculations
  • Utilize online resources and textbooks for additional practice
Discuss Inductor Design Trade-offs
Engage in discussions with peers to compare different approaches and consider various trade-offs involved in inductor design.
Show steps
  • Prepare by reviewing inductor design materials
  • Participate in group discussions
  • Share knowledge and experiences
Follow Tutorials on Transformer Modeling
Explore tutorials covering transformer modeling techniques to enhance understanding of magnetic circuits and their behavior in transformers.
Browse courses on Magnetic Circuits
Show steps
  • Find online tutorials on transformer modeling
  • Review the principles and equations used for transformer modeling
  • Apply transformer modeling techniques to analyze real-world scenarios
Design and Simulate a Simple Inductor
This project will provide you with hands-on experience and help you apply the knowledge of inductor design and simulation
Show steps
  • Design an inductor using appropriate equations and software
  • Simulate the designed inductor using simulation software
  • Analyze the simulation results and optimize the inductor design if necessary
Explore Tutorials on Transformer Design Optimization
Engaging with tutorials on transformer design techniques allows for deeper comprehension of how to optimize transformer performance.
Browse courses on Transformer Design
Show steps
  • Identify tutorials on transformer design optimization
  • Review optimization strategies and algorithms
  • Apply optimization techniques to real-world transformer design scenarios
Practice Inductor Design Calculations
Practice design calculations for inductors to solidify understanding of magnetic circuits and their role in power electronics.
Show steps
  • Review basic inductor design principles
  • Calculate inductance and core loss for a given set of specifications
  • Analyze the impact of core material and geometry on inductor performance
Write a Summary of Eddy Current Losses
Summarizing knowledge about eddy current losses in conductors helps solidify understanding and identify areas of uncertainty.
Browse courses on Conductors
Show steps
  • Review the concept of eddy currents
  • Explain the mechanisms causing eddy current losses
  • Describe methods to minimize eddy current losses
Summarize the Course Concepts in Your Own Words
Creating this summary will help you synthesize and retain a strong understanding of the course's important concepts
Show steps
  • Take notes during the course and review them regularly
  • Create a concise summary highlighting the key concepts
Explain Course Concepts to Others
By explaining concepts to others, you can further solidify your understanding and identify areas where you need further study
Browse courses on Mentoring
Show steps
  • Find opportunities to explain course concepts to classmates or friends
  • Prepare clear and concise explanations using real-life examples

Career center

Learners who complete Magnetics for Power Electronic Converters will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Power Electronics Engineer
Power Electronics Engineers design, develop, and maintain power electronic systems used in a wide range of industries, including transportation, manufacturing, and energy. This online course, Magnetics for Power Electronic Converters, is a valuable resource for aspiring Power Electronics Engineers who are interested in gaining a deeper understanding of magnetics as it applies to power electronic converters. The course covers topics such as basic magnetics, AC copper losses, inductor design, and transformer design. This knowledge can provide a solid foundation for working with magnetic components in the design and development of power electronic systems.
See salaries and explore the career path for Power Electronics Engineer
Electrical Engineer
Electrical Engineers work in the research, design, development, and testing of electrical equipment and systems. This online course, Magnetics for Power Electronic Converters, is a valuable resource for aspiring Electrical Engineers who are interested in gaining a deeper understanding of magnetics as it applies to power electronic converters. The course covers topics such as basic magnetics, AC copper losses, inductor design, and transformer design. This knowledge can provide a solid foundation for working with magnetic components in the design and development of electrical equipment and systems.
See salaries and explore the career path for Electrical Engineer
Electronic Hardware Engineer
Electronic Hardware Engineers work in the research, design, development, and testing of electronic devices and systems. They conceptualize, design, develop, test, and maintain electronic systems used in many industries. This online course, Magnetics for Power Electronic Converters, may be useful for aspiring Electronic Hardware Engineers who are interested in gaining a deeper understanding of magnetics as it applies to power electronic converters. The course covers topics such as basic magnetics, AC copper losses, inductor design, and transformer design. This knowledge can provide a solid foundation for working with magnetic components in the design and development of electronic systems.
See salaries and explore the career path for Electronic Hardware Engineer
Controls Engineer
Controls Engineers design, develop, and maintain control systems used in a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, transportation, and energy. This online course, Magnetics for Power Electronic Converters, may be useful for aspiring Controls Engineers who are interested in gaining a deeper understanding of magnetics as it applies to power electronic converters. The course covers topics such as basic magnetics, AC copper losses, inductor design, and transformer design. This knowledge can provide a solid foundation for working with magnetic components in the design and development of control systems.
See salaries and explore the career path for Controls Engineer
Mechatronics Engineer
Mechatronics Engineers work in the design, development, and maintenance of mechatronic systems, which combine mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering. This online course, Magnetics for Power Electronic Converters, may be useful for aspiring Mechatronics Engineers who are interested in gaining a deeper understanding of magnetics as it applies to power electronic converters. The course covers topics such as basic magnetics, AC copper losses, inductor design, and transformer design. This knowledge can provide a solid foundation for working with magnetic components in the design and development of mechatronic systems.
See salaries and explore the career path for Mechatronics Engineer
Systems Engineer
Systems Engineers design, develop, and maintain complex systems, which can include hardware, software, and human factors. This online course, Magnetics for Power Electronic Converters, may be useful for aspiring Systems Engineers who are interested in gaining a deeper understanding of magnetics as it applies to power electronic converters. The course covers topics such as basic magnetics, AC copper losses, inductor design, and transformer design. This knowledge can provide a solid foundation for working with magnetic components in the design and development of complex systems.
See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Engineer
Product Designer
Product Designers research, design, and develop new products. This online course, Magnetics for Power Electronic Converters, may be useful for aspiring Product Designers who are interested in gaining a deeper understanding of magnetics as it applies to power electronic converters. The course covers topics such as basic magnetics, AC copper losses, inductor design, and transformer design. This knowledge can provide a solid foundation for working with magnetic components in the design and development of new products.
See salaries and explore the career path for Product Designer
Materials Scientist
Materials Scientists research and develop new materials and processes for a wide range of industries, including electronics, energy, and manufacturing. This online course, Magnetics for Power Electronic Converters, may be useful for aspiring Materials Scientists who are interested in gaining a deeper understanding of magnetics as it applies to power electronic converters. The course covers topics such as basic magnetics, AC copper losses, inductor design, and transformer design. This knowledge can provide a solid foundation for working with magnetic materials in the research and development of new materials and processes.
See salaries and explore the career path for Materials Scientist
Consultant
Consultants provide advice and expertise to businesses and organizations on a wide range of topics, including technology, management, and operations. This online course, Magnetics for Power Electronic Converters, may be useful for aspiring Consultants who are interested in gaining a deeper understanding of magnetics as it applies to power electronic converters. The course covers topics such as basic magnetics, AC copper losses, inductor design, and transformer design. This knowledge can provide a solid foundation for working with magnetic components in the consulting field.
See salaries and explore the career path for Consultant
Technical Writer
Technical Writers create and edit technical documentation, such as manuals, reports, and presentations. This online course, Magnetics for Power Electronic Converters, may be useful for aspiring Technical Writers who are interested in gaining a deeper understanding of magnetics as it applies to power electronic converters. The course covers topics such as basic magnetics, AC copper losses, inductor design, and transformer design. This knowledge can provide a solid foundation for writing clear and concise technical documentation on magnetic components.
See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer
Researcher
Researchers conduct scientific research to advance knowledge and understanding in a variety of fields, including science, engineering, and medicine. This online course, Magnetics for Power Electronic Converters, may be useful for aspiring Researchers who are interested in gaining a deeper understanding of magnetics as it applies to power electronic converters. The course covers topics such as basic magnetics, AC copper losses, inductor design, and transformer design. This knowledge can provide a solid foundation for conducting research on magnetic components.
See salaries and explore the career path for Researcher
Educator
Educators teach and educate students at all levels, from kindergarten through graduate school. This online course, Magnetics for Power Electronic Converters, may be useful for aspiring Educators who are interested in teaching about magnetics and power electronics. The course covers topics such as basic magnetics, AC copper losses, inductor design, and transformer design. This knowledge can provide a solid foundation for teaching students about magnetic components and their applications in power electronic converters.
See salaries and explore the career path for Educator
Sales Engineer
Sales Engineers work with customers to identify and meet their needs for products and services. This online course, Magnetics for Power Electronic Converters, may be useful for aspiring Sales Engineers who are interested in selling magnetic components or power electronic converters. The course covers topics such as basic magnetics, AC copper losses, inductor design, and transformer design. This knowledge can provide a solid foundation for understanding the technical aspects of magnetic components and power electronic converters.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sales Engineer
Quality Assurance Analyst
Quality Assurance Analysts ensure that products and services meet quality standards. This online course, Magnetics for Power Electronic Converters, may be useful for aspiring Quality Assurance Analysts who are interested in working with magnetic components or power electronic converters. The course covers topics such as basic magnetics, AC copper losses, inductor design, and transformer design. This knowledge can provide a solid foundation for understanding the quality and reliability of magnetic components and power electronic converters.
See salaries and explore the career path for Quality Assurance Analyst
Project Manager
Project Managers plan, organize, and execute projects to achieve specific goals. This online course, Magnetics for Power Electronic Converters, may be useful for aspiring Project Managers who are interested in managing projects involving magnetic components or power electronic converters. The course covers topics such as basic magnetics, AC copper losses, inductor design, and transformer design. This knowledge can provide a solid foundation for understanding the technical aspects of magnetic components and power electronic converters.
See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager

Reading list

We've selected eight books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Magnetics for Power Electronic Converters.
Cover image
Magnetic Components for Power Electronics
Save
Written for researchers and engineers working in the design and development of magnetic components for power electronics applications. Provides comprehensive coverage of magnetic components including inductors, transformers, and flux concentrators. Covers design techniques and a wealth of numerical examples and case studies. More valuable as additional reading.
Magnetic Components for Power Electronics by Alex...
Hardcover
$$$$
Cover image
Power Magnetic Devices
Save
Covers magnetic device design for power electronics. Discusses how to perform multi-objective optimization of inductor and transformer designs. Suitable as a reference.
Power Magnetic Devices
Paperback
Check
Power Magnetic Devices
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Switching Power Supply Design, 3rd Ed.
Save
Includes topics on magnetic components, and commonly used reference book.
Switching Power Supply Design, 3rd Ed.
Hardcover
$$$$
Cover image
Power Electronics
Save
Concerned with the analysis and design of static power converters. More valuable as background or prerequisite knowledge.
Power Electronics
Paperback
Check
Power Electronics
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Introduction to Modern Power Electronics
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Focuses on medium- and high-power converters used in power transmission and distribution systems, and industrial applications. Discusses magnetic components.
Introduction to Modern Power Electronics
Hardcover
$$$
Introduction to Modern Power Electronics
Hardcover
$$
Introduction to Modern Power Electronics
Unknown Binding
$$$
Introduction to Modern Power Electronics
Kindle Edition
$$$$
Introduction to Modern Power Electronics
Kindle Edition
$$$$
Cover image
Electro-Magnetism
Save
An introductory textbook covering the fundamentals of electromagnetism. More valuable as background or prerequisite knowledge.
Electro-Magnetism
Paperback
Check
Electro-Magnetism
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Schaum's Outline of Electromagnetics, Fifth Edition
Save
A problem-solving guide and study supplement covering the fundamentals of electromagnetics. Provides practice problems with detailed solutions.
Schaum's Outline of Electromagnetics, Fifth Edition
Paperback
Check
Schaum's Outline of Electromagnetics, Fifth Edition
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Elements of Electromagnetics
Save
An undergraduate textbook covering the fundamentals of electromagnetism and waves. More valuable as background or prerequisite knowledge.
Elements of Electromagnetics (OXFORD SERIES...
Paperback
$$$$

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Course image
Effort
4 weeks of study, 9 hours per week
Level
Intermediate
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Colorado Boulder
Instructor
Dr. Robert Erickson
Language
English
Transcripts
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Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
This course is also offered for academic credit as part of CU Boulder’s Master of Science in Electrical Engineering degree
Taught by Dr. Robert Erickson, a leading researcher in power electronics and magnetic components
Covers advanced topics such as modeling of losses in magnetic components and design optimization of inductors in switched-mode power converters
Requires prior completion of courses 1 and 2: Introduction to Power Electronics, and Converter Circuits
Assumes a strong foundation in electrical engineering and power electronics
May be challenging for beginners or those with limited background in power electronics
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