Soft Magnetic

Applications Guide

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 Soft Magnetic Applications Guide

Table of Contents
Introduction and
Basics of Magnetics Selection of Materials by Application
Introduction ........................................................................ 3 Frequency and Application .......................................19
Basics of Magnetics.............................................................3 Low-frequency Applications (Power Conversion) ............ 19
Units of Measure ................................................................ 3 High-Frequency Applications ............................................ 20
Simple Magnetic Theory ...................................... 3
Major Industry Typical Applications .................................. 20
Permeability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Saturation ............................................................... 5
BH (or Hysteresis) Loop ........................................... 5 Appendix
Magnetic Energy ............................................................ 7 Recommended Application Tables................................... 22
Magnetic Circuits .................................................. 7
Electrical Properties of Magnetic Circuits ....................... 8
Soft Magnetic Materials .................................................. 8
Core Loss ................................................................................. 8
Energy Storage vs. Energy Transfer ............................... 9

Applications with Descriptions

Description of Applications ..................................................9
Types of Materials ............................................................ 11
Soft Ferrite ........................................................................ 11
Scrapless Laminates ........................................................ 11
Powdered Iron .................................................................. 11
MPP .................................................................................. 12
HI-FLUX ™ ....................................................................... 13
SUPER-MSS ™ (Sendust) .............................................. 14
Toroidal Tape Cores ......................................................... 14
Cut Tape Cores ................................................................ 17
Bobbin Tape Wound Cores.............................................. 18
Silectron Toroids ............................................................... 19
Silectron C and E Cores ................................................... 19
Distributed Gap Cores ...................................................... 19

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 Soft Magnetic Applications Guide
Introduction There are many ways to get up to speed in this subject.
The possibilities include a basic electronics course of
The earth itself has magnetism. Ages ago, seagoing study or one of the programmed learning packages on
navigators learned how to use this phenomenon to the market. For example, the Heath Company offers a
sail their ships accurately from one port to another. variety of electronics educational products.

All of us are aware that the earth spins on an axis, the

opposite ends of which have been designated as the
geographic north and south poles. These geographic poles Basics of Magnetics
are near the earth’s magnetic poles.
Invisible magnetic lines of force completely surround the Energy
earth. Oversimplified (but adequate for this discussion),
these lines enter the earth at one pole, pass through the Arnold serves industries and individuals deeply involved
earth, exit at the other pole, and then loop back to the with conversion and utilization of magnetic energy. Their
first pole. They are useful not only to the mariner on the actual final products can range anywhere from computers
high seas but also to the airplane pilot aloft. to electrical power distribution to automobiles. This
manual provides an understanding of the basic
Ancient mariners learned that certain substances, known
phenomenon of magnetics and how Arnold products
as lodestones, would always point approximately north or
allow it to be put to practical use.
south when suspended on a string. If the lodestone was
deliberately moved from this position, it would slowly Any energy form––be it electrical, thermal, chemical, or
return to its original orientation. This gave evidence of a mechanical––is only of value to us if it can be used in our
strange force which man could use. everyday life. This is called doing work. To do work for us,
energy must be converted from one form to another. The
Long after the mariner’s compass became a universally
products that Arnold manufactures facilitate this
useful navigational instrument, other pioneering
conversion and make it efficient enough to be of practical
scientists observed that a voltage could be measured
use. It is certainly possible to make permanent magnet
between the ends of a piece of wire moved across
(PM) motors with lodestone motor arcs and transformers
magnetic lines of force. They also learned that, if the
from cut- up tin cans. But, how efficient would they be,
ends of a long enough wire were touched together, a
and would they allow the design of the everyday electro-
tiny spark could be seen when the wire was moved very
magnetic devices that have become necessities to us?
rapidly. Gradually, as these phenomena were observed
by scientists and word of their observations was
Understanding the formation and utilization of energy is
circulated, the relationship between electricity and
very important.
magnetism was discovered.
Although they did not understand the causes at first, they
eventually developed the idea that something was Units of Measurement
flowing in the wire. In due course, new words such as
voltage, current, resistance, and impedance began to Before getting too involved in a discussion of magnetics,
creep into the strange, new jargon of science. Each new you should spend some time on one of the most
discovery added to the previous knowledge and, controversial subjects you will encounter: the system of
through such evolution, order developed out of units that information/literature/design documentation
conflicting opinions. That process continues today, should be using. Arnold has traditionally used the CGS
although the points of discussion and discovery are now (centimeter-gram- second) system. Its principal
many times more specific in nature than the general advantages are that the units are nicely “sized” for real-
concepts developed in the past. world magnetic materials, and that the permeability of
free space is equal to one. (This last point will be defined
Virtually everyone has an intuitive understanding of
more clearly later in this document.)
simple magnetic devices like the lodestone. However, an
individual designing today’s sophisticated magnetic
Unfortunately, CGS units receive only passing
products for the commercial market place must have a
mention in formal training in electromagnetic theory.
deeper knowledge and understanding of the subject.
The system of choice in academic and scientific
communities is the SI (System Internationale) system.
The following training document provides some of the
These units can be more awkward to use, and the
information and understanding needed to use
permeability of free space is an exponential number. On
magnetic products successfully. You’ll find general
the other hand, mathematical operations are much simpler
information on magnetic theory and specific
when going from energy to power to flux density, etc.
information on magnetic core types and applications. It
requires a modest understanding of electrical circuits
and basic principles of electronics, so some preparatory Simple Magnetic Theory
study would be beneficial for anyone without such
background. Fundamental to all magnetic theory is the concept
that a magnetic field is produced when a current

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 Soft Magnetic Applications Guide
passes through a conductor. The direction and
intensity of this magnetic field is a function of the
direction and amplitude of the current.

The
simple circuit shown in Figure 1 depicts how electrical
energy is converted to magnetic energy. A current
source, in this case a battery, is attached to a length of
conducting wire. Because the electrical circuit is closed,
current flows. This current is called the excitation current
and, when used with a certain coil geometry, results in
what is referred to as the Magnetizing Force, or MMF per
unit length, or the H of the coil. The unit of the measure
is Oersted in CGS

MMF (magneto-motive force) are Gilbert in CGS and

Ampere-turns (amp•turns) in SI units.
1 amp-turn per meter = 0.012566 oersted
Two important concepts began to evolve from this
The flow of current creates a “force field” that is research. The first is the presence of an iron “core”
concentric with the conductor. This field was arbitrarily increased the concentration of lines of flux within the
called a magnetic field by 19th century researchers, coil of wire. This established the c o n c e p t of flux density,
and a measure of its magnitude was called Flux, or or number of lines of flux per unit of cross-sectional
lines of flux, or B. In other words, some amount of area. Flux from a coil or magnet is also referred to as
amps of current creates some number of lines of flux. induction. The unit of measure of flux density is Gauss in
The resulting magnetic field is a pool of potential CGS units and Tesla in SI units. Occasionally an engineer
energy. The unit of flux is the Weber or the Volt- will use “lines per square centimeter” as a unit of
second in the SI system, and the Maxwell in CGS. induction, and while correct, it is no longer common.
1 weber = 1 volt-second 1 line of flux = 1 maxwell
1 weber = 108 maxwells 1 gauss = 1 maxwell per cm2
1 tesla = 10,000 gauss
From this simple beginning, scientists manipulated the
m a g n e t i c phenomenon to perform work. The single 1 tesla = 1 weber per meter2
loop of wire was made into a multiple-turn coil (see Flux density is one of the components used to
Figure 2), proportionately increasing the number of lines determine the amount of magnetic energy stored in a
of flux produced by the same amount of current (same given geometry. The other component is the MMF,
number of amps). One of the few ways early researchers described previously.
had to measure the amount of flux produced by the
current-carrying coil was to observe the amount of Another important concept that became apparent was in
attractive force a coil exhibited when near a a situation where a ferromagnetic material was inserted
ferromagnetic material (e.g. steel). It was only a matter into a coil (see Figure 3), the flux (or flux density) was
of time before someone came upon the idea of putting actually the result of two constituents––one being the
an iron “core” inside the coil (see Figure 3) and, naturally contribution of the coil itself, the other the contribution
enough, the amount of force produced increased of the iron core. These two parts are additive, and the
drastically over previous experiments. total flux is the sum of the two.
FLUXmagnet + FLUXcoil = FLUXtotal

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The significance of this is best demonstrated by the use Although magnetic materials are more susceptible to
of normal and intrinsic demagnetization curves in excitation than air, they have the drawback of limited
permanent magnet product literature. The intrinsic curve is flux carrying capacity. As the applied excitation becomes
representative of the magnet’s contribution, and the greater, the material reaches a point where its
normal curve is the magnet plus the externally applied (coil) permeability approaches the permeability of free space
magnetic field. There will be further discussion of this later and it cannot carry any more magnetic energy. This point is
in this document. referred to as Saturation and is characterized by the
material’s Saturation Flux Density (saturation
magnetization, MS, or saturation polarization, JS).
Permeability
Saturation magnetization is related to a permanent magnets’
Not all magnetic materials respond equally to an Br (residual induction) and is usually only of interest in that
applied magnetic field. Different materials exhibit the MS must be higher than Br. Thus a high Br, a strong
different flux densities when subjected to the same magnet, requires a high MS. For soft magnetic materials on
magnetization levels. To account for this, scientists which we depend for carrying flux in magnetic circuits, the MS
developed a term to describe the mathematical ratio of is a measure of that flux carrying capability. However, soft
flux density to magnetizing force. This ratio, called magnetic materials also benefit from having low values of
Permeability, is a measure of the magnetic sensitivity of coercivity (HcB). A good soft magnetic material usually has
the material. Permeability is the ratio of B (induction) to both a low HcB, a large maximum permeability (ease of
H (applied magnetic field). magnetization) and a high MS (saturation magnetization).
When a soft magnetic material is specified to have a
Every magnetic material has a permeability that is minimum value of saturation flux density, it is also
numerically greater than the value of the permeability of necessary to specify at what excitation level (at what
free space – which is 1. appl ie d field ) this magnetization is to be measured.
Absolute permeability of free space = 1 (CGS units) or
4π × 10−7 H/m = 4π × 10−7 Wb/(A•m) (SI units)
BH Loop
This means that magnetic materials are more responsive
to an applied MMF than the space (air) they occupy.
In order to differentiate the properties of specific
There are also several different definitions for permeability
materials, a measurement technique was devised that
depending where on the hysteresis loop we refer to.
shows all the characteristics described above. This is the
Some of these are: initial permeability, incremental
hysteresigram, or as it is more commonly called, the
permeability, (relative) recoil permeability and maximum
Hysteresis Loop or BH Loop. Since it is of such basic
permeability. When referring to permanent magnets, we
importance to magnetic designers, some explanation of
most often speak of recoil permeability. For more detail
its features will be given.
see the Glossary of Terms for the Magnetics Industry.
The BH loop is obtained by exciting the magnetic
The (relative) recoil permeability of some permanent material sample with a controlled, and varied, external
magnets is: magnetic field and simultaneously recording the
• Hard ferrite ~1.045 resulting magnetization induced in the sample.
• Neo (NdFeB) ~ 1 . 0 5 Generally the format is to excite the sample to saturation
• Samarium-cobalt is between 1.03 and 1.08 in the positive (+H, applied field) direction and then to
• Alnico i s 1.5 to 7 depending upon grade reverse the applied field direction to excite in the opposite
(negative) direction. The final step is to reverse direction
With soft magnetic materials we refer to the maximum again and return to either zero external field or to
permeability with some typical values being: complete the loop by applying an adequately large
• MPP = 14 to 350 depending on powder loading positive field to again saturate the magnet in the original
• Powdered iron = 8 - 75 direction.
• Silectron = up to 30,000
• Supermalloy = up to 300,000 The sample may or may not be driven to saturation
during the test sequence. This point is of particular
Unfortunately, the permeability of magnetic materials is significance in permanent magnets, where the full
not constant especially for soft magnetic materials. potential of a material can only be realized if it is
Permeabilities will change over a several-decade range completely saturated when magnetized for
as the excitation (applied field) level is varied. R eal- measurement or use. For rare earth magnets it is
world materials are also affected by their environment usually required to pulse magnetize to saturation prior
such as temperature and mechanical shock which can have to attempting measurement. Devices that measure
a profound effect on the observed value of permeability. magnetic fields are called magnetometers. The type
of magnetometer used to measure the hysteresis
loop is called a hysteresigraph.
Saturation
Figure 4 shows an example BH or hysteresis loop.
Induction, B, is displayed on the vertical axis and applied

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magnetizing force, H, is on the horizontal axis. Positive energy, is “neutralized by the applied field and the flux
and negative values of both parameters are utilized. One density returns to zero. This is point (0,-Hc). The
variation of the BH loop is the demagnetization curve amount of negative MMF required to reduce induction
commonly used to display the properties of permanent in a material from Br to zero is called the ( n o r m a l )
magnet materials. The “demag” curve only represents Coercivity of the sample material. The coercive force
the second quadrant of the full BH loop. The material has is designated by Hc. The unit for coercivity is either
been magnetized and then a gradual demagnetizing field is oersted (Oe) or amp-turn per meter (A/m).
applied in an attempt to demagnetize the sample, thus the
term “demag” curve. This parameter, Hc, differentiates “hard,” or permanent,
magnetic materials from “soft” materials. Soft magnetic
materials are quite easily magnetized and demagnetized.
Hard magnetic materials are quite difficult to magnetize
and demagnetize - they are better able to retain the
magnetic energy stored in them. In either case, unless
something occurs to demagnetize the material, magnetic
energy will be stored in them almost indefinitely.

The remainder of the BH loop is simply a mirror image

of the first two quadrants. The sample is driven to (-
Bm,-Hm), then (-Br, 0) then (0, +Hc) and finally back to
(+Bm,+Hm).

As mentioned earlier, the flux in the “air space” within

the exciting coil does contribute to the total, or
normal, flux observed or measured in the BH loop.
Some hysteresigraphs, as the instruments are called,
are equipped to calculate and display the intrinsic BH
loop, the loop representing only the induction of the
For thorough analysis, the magnetic material sample material. Both the normal and intrinsic
should start out unmagnetized. This would be the axis demagnetization curves are provided for high-
point (0,0) on the BH loop in Figure 4. At that point the coercivity materials (see Figure 5). For intrinsic BH
excitation current is zero and the sample contains no loops, an additional “i” subscript is added to all the
flux. As excitation is increased slowly in the positive defining parameters. In other words, Hci is the intrinsic
direction, flux builds up in the material, also in the coercivity of the sample, whereas Hc is the normal
positive direction. Generally, the excitation is increased coercivity. Both normal and intrinsic demagnetization
until saturation occurs; but, since this is not always the curves are of significance to the PM circuit designer.
case, we will assume in this discussion that the material is
not saturated. (The occurrence of saturation does not
change the following test sequence.) This point of
maximum excitation is signified on Figure 4 by
(+Bm,+Hm), where +Bm is the maximum flux density
observed and +Hm is the maximum MMF applied. These
points are alternatively referred to as Bs and Hs where “s”
stands for saturation. Current then is slowly decreased to
zero, to the point on the curve labeled (+Br,0). But, as
indicated in Figure 4, the flux does not return-to-zero.
Instead flux density assumes what is called the residual
induction of the sample. The symbol for residual induction is
Br.

One of the distinguishing characteristics of real world

magnetic materials is that they have “memory” of their
previous excitation condition. This results in a “lag” in
the response of the material when excitation is varied.
The residual flux is a manifestation of this
p henomenon. (All magnetic materials exhibit residual flux
values.) This lag is referred to as Hysteresis, from which
the name hysteresigram or hysteresis loop is taken.

When the excitation is increased in the negative

direction a demagnetizing force is applied against the
sample’s residual i n d u c t i o n . Eventually the magnetic

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 Soft Magnetic Applications Guide
Magnetic Energy applied current, as is the case in the electrical circuit
(see Figure 6).
The intent and purpose of magnetic materials is to
facilitate the conversion, storage and utilization of
magnetic energy. By definition, magnetic energy is the
product of the induction in the magnet and the
magnetizing force it took to excite the material to that
flux level.
Energy = B x H
The unit of energy in the SI system is the Joule, in the CGS
system it is the Erg. In permanent magnet design a special
energy density, or energy product, is also used to indicate
stored energy. The CGS unit of energy product is the
Gauss-Oersted (or mega-Gauss-Oersted, MGOe). The SI
unit is the Joule per cubic meter (or kilo-Joule per cubic
meter, kJ/m3).
1 joule = 107 ergs
1 joule per meter3 = 125.63 gauss-oersted
1 MGOe = 7.958 kJ/m3 To facilitate the analysis of magnetic devices, the
Soft magnetic materials, including core products, have the concept of Reluctance was introduced. This is the
ability to store magnetic energy that has been converted magnetic circuit “resistance” referred to above. This
from electrical energy; but it is normally short-term in mathematical tool not only considers the
nature because of the ease with which these materials permeability of that section of the magnetic circuit,
are magnetized and demagnetized. This is desirable in but also its dimensions and shape.
electronic and electrical circuits because it allows magnetic
energy to be converted easily back into electrical energy The path that the lines of flux will take in a given
for reintroduction into the electrical circuit. geometry is analogous to current in an electrical
circuit. Electrical current takes the path of least
Hard magnetic materials (permanent magnets, PMs) are resistance. Magnetic flux takes the path of least
comparatively difficult to magnetize and demagnetize, so reluctance. Reluctance is inversely proportional to
the energy consumed in doing so is large. The portion of permeability.
the BH loop that shows a permanent magnet’s energy
storage is the demagnetization portion of the normal Minimum reluctance is realized when the
curve from (+Br,0) to (0,-Hc). permeability of the magnetic materials are high,
when the Air Gap in the magnetic path is reduced,
If hard magnetic materials dissipated their stored energy and the configuration tends toward the materials
back into the magnetizing electrical circuit quickly, as do forming a closed loop (see Figure 7). In a PM circuit,
soft materials, they would be of no value to us. Instead, the effect of reluctance is to diminish available flux in
they use this energy to establish a magnetic field which the air gap. Higher operating flux densities can be
does work by inter-acting with, for instance, the stator realized if the air gap (reluctance) in the PM circuit is
current in a PM motor. Presumably, unless something designed with minimum reluctance.
causes it to become demagnetized, the permanent
magnet will maintain this external field indefinitely. One
of the common misconceptions is that, somehow, the
energy stored in the magnet is being consumed as the
motor is operated. This is not true. Think of the magnet
as acting like a spring, alternately storing and
releasing potential energy as it interacts with other
magnetic fields in the application.

Magnetic Circuits
It is quite convenient to draw an analogy between the
more common electrical circuit and something called a
Magnetic Circuit. A magnetic circuit is a schematic of
the magnetic f l u x path where the MMF sources (PMs
and electromagnets) and MMF drops (areas with low
permeability) are represented. To complete the analogy,
“resistances” are against the applied MMF instead of the

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(e.g., in a PM motor). Whenever the device is connected
An air gap is introduced into magnetic circuits in two to an electrical circuit that provides current, certain
ways: a Discrete air gap and a Distributed air gap (see electrical properties will be exhibited in that circuit. One
Figures 8 and 9, respectively). Discrete air gaps are of the most significant is Inductance.
significant in both PM and soft magnetic circuits while a
distributed air gap is applicable to powder core products. Inductance, along with resistance and capacitance, are
three basic characteristics of any electrical circuit.
A discrete air gap, as used in a gapped C-Core or in a Inductance determines the electrical Impedance that
PM motor, is best described by a situation where a the device presents in the electrical circuit. Impedance, in
limited number of comparatively large air gaps are an AC circuit, is a combination of resistance and
introduced into a basically high-permeability material reactance. Impedance, in turn, dictates the electrical
that is part of the path of the magnetic circuit. current that will flow. The unit of inductance in both SI
and CGS systems is the Henry. The unit of resistance in
both systems is the Ohm.
Mathematically, inductance is inversely proportional to
the reluctance of the magnetic circuit. Thus a core with a
large air gap (a high-reluctance magnetic circuit) will
provide very little impedance to the electrical circuit.
Likewise, a PM motor designed with a very large
clearance between the rotor and the arc magnet will
tend to provide less impedance to the circuit supplying
the electrical power.
When a magnetic material saturates, relative
permeability decreases and reluctance increases rapidly.
Consequently, the impedance of that device tends
toward zero and it begins to “ disappear” from the
electrical circuit.

A distributed air gap r efers to a very large number of Soft Magnetic Materials
small gaps distributed throughout a core. Examples of
distributed air gap products are Molybdenum Permalloy Soft magnetic core products include Molybdenum
Powder (MPP), ferrite and powdered iron cores. Because Permalloy Powder (MPP), HI-FLUX (50:50 Ni-Fe), Sendust (Si-
it minimizes second-order effects such as leakage and Fe), ferrite and iron powder cores. In addition, a wide variety of
fringing flux, distributed air gaps permit much larger tape wound products are available including 3% Si-Fe,
effective air gaps in the magnetic path. amorphous and nano-crystalline alloys. Discussion herein
will be restricted to core products.

Core Loss
Core loss is extremely important in soft magnetics. Core
loss represents inefficiency, an energy loss, so it is highly
disdained by the designer. In many instances, core loss
will render a particular material unsuitable for use in an
There are other ways to obtain an air gap. One common application. The most glaring example would be the high
method in a C-core is where in the normal manufacturing frequency power-conversion transformer industry, which
process, the b i n d e r impregnation lowers permeability of is dominated by low-loss soft ferrites. E x c e p t i o n s
the material by creating an air gaps between lamination i n c l u d e flyback transformers operated in a lower
layers. Additionally, dynamic effects such as core loss
range of switching frequency and high frequency power
tend to create an effective air gap by reducing the net
conversion inductors. The unit of core loss in both SI and
permeability of the material.
CGS systems is the Watt and it is often expressed as watt
per pound (cgs) or watt per kilogram (SI).
Electrical Properties 1 watt = 1 joule per second
of the Magnetic Circuit Core loss is the result of two major components:
Hysteresis Loss and Eddy Current Loss. Hysteresis loss
Devices made with magnetic materials are often used results from the fact that not all energy required to
to interact with fields from electrical current to perform magnetize a material is recoverable when it is
useful work. This is almost always true of soft magnetic demagnetized. The wider and taller the hysteresis loop,
products and quite often true of permanent magnets the more hysteresis loss a material has. Hysteresis loss is

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proportional to the area within the normal hysteresis loop. limits the obtainable flux density, once this maximum is
The area of the loop is determined by Hc, Bs (saturation reached, the only other option is to increase the applied
induction) and the shape of the loop. current to force the core into saturation: in other words, to
“desensitize” the core to the magnetizing current. This is
Eddy current loss is the result of small circulating currents quite easy to accomplish simply by mechanically lowering
(eddy currents, not unlike eddy currents produced in the the effective permeability (increasing the reluctance) of the
wake of a boat) that are induced in the magnetic material device. This is almost always done by introducing an air
when the flux carried by the magnetic material changes in gap into the magnetic circuit.
intensity and direction (see Figure 10). The amplitude of
these small currents is dependent on the magnitude of the Energy Transfer is a special case of energy storage that is
applied magnetic field and on the Electrical Resistivity of somewhat more difficult to understand than energy
the material. As a point of comparison, soft ferrites, while storage, which is basic to all magnetic devices.
having moderately large hysteresis loss, have very high
resistivities and resulting low eddy current loss. This is the Energy transfer in a magnetic device is most typically
reason they are often the material of choice for high- represented by a two-winding Transformer, where
frequency applications. excitation current flows in one winding, the primary,
and an induced voltage appears in the other winding, the
secondary. At first l o o k , o n e might be tempted to say
Energy Storage vs. Energy Transfer that no energy storage is taking place in a typical
transformer. This is not the case. In fact, two energy
Energy storage is a fundamental concept in magnetic conversion/storage mechanisms are taking place.
theory. In soft magnetic materials this is exploited to
introduce “time delay” into electrical currents via the The first is the familiar “time delay” energy storage
mechanism of inductance. For instance, this time delay already described as a result of inductance. This is
can be used to differentiate between frequencies or generally undesirable in a transformer because it
filter out unwanted frequencies in the excitation detracts from the efficiency of the transfer. Usually
current. every attempt is made to minimize exciting energy. The
user wants maximum permeability in the core of a
transformer, so air gaps —either real or apparent —are
minimized.
The desirable conversion/storage mechanism occur s
where magnetic energy stored in the core is almost
instantaneously transferred to the secondary winding
and the electrical load attached to it. The core never
really “sees” this magnetic energy, and the magnetic
circuit does not have to support any flux created by the
conversion. The energy consumption of the load
attached to the secondary winding is said to be
“reflected” into the primary circuit.

Descriptions of Applications
Devices using soft magnetic materials are used
extensively throughout the electronics and power-
distribution industries. Selecting the right material and
The Inductor or the Choke utilizes the concept of core type for a given application can be difficult and
storing electrical energy in the form of magnetic confusing. In this discussion, we will adhere to the
energy. The flux build-up in the core is proportional to differentiation between inductors and transformers and
the applied current and to the permeability of the soft expand upon variations in each of these groups.
magnetic core material. The magnetic energy is
converted back into electrical energy as soon as the Power Transformers. The primary purpose of a power
exciting current is removed. transformer is to convert AC energy from one
combination of voltage and current to another and
Energy stored in a magnetic circuit (or core) is
simultaneously provide electrical isolation between the
proportional to the applied excitation current multiplied
primary and the secondary windings. Power transformers
by the resulting flux (induction). Consequently, to increase
have two or more separate windings. The ratio of the
the amount of energy stored in a given core (assuming
number of turns in the primary winding to the number of turns
that the basic dimensions don’t change), there are only
in the secondary winding determines whether the voltage is
two possible alternatives: increase the i n d u c e d flux or
“stepped up” or “stepped down.” Disregarding winding and
increase the applied coil amp-turns. Since all materials
have an inherent and unchangeable saturation flux that core losses, total watts (power) input to the primary of the
transformer is equal to the watts output from the secondary

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winding. Power transformers will often have more than one and out of magnetic saturation. This, in effect, changes
secondary winding and the output power is apportioned the device’s flux transfer ratio, and subsequently the
according to the turns in the individual windings. output power of the device is controlled. Large electric
industrial furnaces, welders, and high-power voltage
The majority of power transformers fall into two categories: regulators commonly use saturable reactors as the
Low-Frequency power transformers used at frequencies less controllable source of power.
than 1000 Hertz and High-Frequency power transformers
used at frequencies above 1000 Hertz. These definitions are A variation of the saturable reactor is called MAG AMP,
not universal, and 1000 Hz was selected as a semi-arbitrary which operates on the same control-winding concept as
reference point. Variations of power transformers include: the saturable reactor. Mag amps are used as variable series
• Wide (frequency) band transformers. impedance in square wave and pulse wave applications,
• Impedance matching transformers. being driven into and out of saturation within a single cycle.
• Pulse transformers. One popular application for a mag amp is as a post
regulation technique on the output stage of Switchmode
Power Supplies.
RF Transformers. RF (radio frequency) transformers
operate at low-to-moderate power levels above 500 To work effectively, saturable reactors and mag amps
KHz. These devices are the same as a power
require magnetic material with a very square loop to allow
transformer except that their primary application is to for a sharp transition into and out of saturation.
couple AC signals from an output stage of an RF
amplifier to the input of the next stage while Pure Inductors are used at all frequencies to provide an
electrically decoupling the DC component of the electronic circuit with inductive reactance. Such a circuit
signal. RF transformers are used extensively when may be in communications equipment, where the
coupling the high-potential plate output of an combination of inductive and capacitive reactance is used to
amplifier to the input of the next s t a g e . tune a stable frequency in an oscillator stage or to provide
Other RF transformers include Baluns transformers, selective filtering in a band pass filter. Larger pure inductors,
which are used for impedance matching of circuits. called loading coils, offset the effects of capacitance built
up in long lengths of conductor such as antennae or
Precision Transformers. Precision transformers are telephone lines. Pure inductors can be either fixed or
special devices used in “sensing” and instrumentation variable, depending on their application.
applications.
EMI Filters: Electromagnetic interference (EMI) is
One very common type of precision transformer is the produced by a multitude of electronic and electrical
Current Transformer, or CT. CTs have one turn of high- devices including motors, light dimmers, digital computing
current-carrying wire for the primary. The secondary high- devices, switchmode power supplies, and motor speed
turn-count winding produces a low-level current controls. EMI can be radiated through the air or transmitted
proportional to the turns-ratio of the windings and to the through device wired conductors. It can interfere with
current in the primary. CTs are used extensively in both communications, such as radio and television signals, and
the electronics/power-conversion and the power- can affect computer devices that use low level high-
distribution industries. frequency transmissions.
Another precision transformer is called the Flux Gate
Magnetometer. This transformer is used to detect EMI filters can be used in conjunction with a capacitor
very low-level magnetic fields or very small changes to form a highly efficient and selective band pass or
in a magnetic field. These devices have applications band stop filter to impede unwanted (EM) noise. EMI
in electronic compasses as well as navigation filters eliminate noise by converting it to heat (core
systems. Since flux gate magnetometers can detect the loss). These lossy filters work well when the noise-
distortion in the earth’s magnetic field caused by the component frequency is much higher than the
presence of armored vehicles and ships, they are used as frequency of the desired signal.
triggering devices for mines and other types of
armament. An often used type of EMI filter is the Common
Mode Filter, which is wound with both conductors of
A third type of precision transformer is the Hall Effect the power source in such a way that noise common
Transducer, which has a gap in the magnetic path of the to both conductors is filtered. The desired signal
core in which a Hall effect device is placed. The flux passes through the common mode filter unimpeded.
generated in the core by the current in the winding (often
just one turn) causes the Hall effect device to produce an Energy Storage Inductors release the energy stored in
output voltage proportional to the flux level. them when the voltage across the device is switched.
These inductors typically are found, for instance, in the
Saturable reactors are used for voltage and current output stage of switchmode power supplies. In this
control at high power levels. A special core winding is application, the energy storage filter (in conjunction
placed on the saturable reactor, and DC current that with a filter capacitor) smoothes the ripple current that
passes through this winding will drive the device into is superimposed on the DC output of the converter.
This filter will also provide some EMI filtering of the

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 Soft Magnetic Applications Guide
inherent noise caused by the high-frequency switching. or cobalt-iron thin-gauge materials are also available for
These devices operate with large DC current and must use as laminations.
maintain a reasonably constant inductance (or core
permeability) at high flux levels. Because of the way they are manufactured, tooling costs
are high (the die). For low-quantity requirements, laser
The Flyback Transformer is a special type of energy
cutting is used. Scrapless laminations are taken, one
storage device that performs both energy transfer and piece at a time, and “stacked” up into a core assembled
energy storage functions. It is used in low cost, high- around the coil. Special stacking machinery is available
frequency power conversion. The type of core used in to facilitate the construction of this type of device. The
this device must have moderately high permeability for
advantage of scrapless laminations is that, in high-
good flux transfer and, at the same time, high volume applications, it is the least expensive choice for
saturation flux density for better energy storage low-frequency, high-permeability requirements.
capacity.
Shearings are thin-gauge strip that is “sheared” to length.
Sometimes the shearing is done with a miter, and
Types of Materials and Available sometimes “bolt holes” are stamped into each piece.
Shapes of Cores Material is virtually always silicon iron. Shearings are “laid
up” into E-I and U-I shapes to form cores for large
Soft Ferrite. Soft ferrites are derived from iron oxide transformers. The advantage of this type of construction is
obtained from the cleaning of steel (pickle liquor) or that it allows fabrication of very large transformers and
mined from the earth. Metals such as nickel, inductors. The cores in large substation transformers can
manganese and zinc are added to the iron oxide. easily weigh many thousands of pounds.
Ferrite material is then pressed and fired to form a
crystalline structure that gives ferrite cores their soft Silicon-iron scrapless laminations and shearings are the
magnetic properties. Subsequent grinding or coating most widely used soft magnetic cores for 60 Hz
operations may take place before the core is used. applications.
Manganese-Zinc soft ferrites have high permeability
and low eddy current losses; Nickel- Zinc ferrites have
lower permeabilities with very low eddy current losses. Powdered Iron
A variety of materials spans the frequency range from
10 KHz to 1 GHz and up. Soft ferrites have low Powdered iron cores are made from 99+% pure iron in
saturation flux densities, in the range of 2500 to 4000 the form of very fine powder particles. There are many
gauss, but are available in shapes that can be readily different grades of powdered iron material, ranging from
gapped to handle more MMF at the sacrifice of cheap-and-dirty sponge iron to the fairly expensive
permeability. Because of their very low core loss at high carbonyl powders. These materials are purchased in
frequency, ferrites are used extensively in switchmode powder form, and the particles are mixed with insulating
power supplies as power transformers, filter inductors, and binding materials and pressed to finished shape at
current transformers, and mag amps. moderately high pressures (2 to 8 metric tons per cm2).
Hard tooling (punch and die) is required.
Ferrites are available in a wide variety of shapes and Coating/binding agents are cured after the pressing
sizes with volumes up to about 500 cm. Some other operation, but the cores are not metallurgincally
common applications for ferrites are rod antennas, annealed. The intent is that the individual particles
common mode filters, RF trans- formers, and pure not fuse or electrically short out. Powdered iron cores are
inductors. not sintered iron parts, a common misconception (see
Figure 11).
Ferrites were plagued for many years by their extremely
wide physical and magnetic tolerances. Additionally, Because the particles a r e ideally separated by an air
ferrites are hindered by rather large temperature
gap (occupied by insulating and bonding material), a
dependence. Extensive research and development has distributed air gap is created. Although the raw
improved, but not eliminated, all of the soft ferrite material used, iron, has a moderately high
shortcomings. Because of their widespread manufacture, permeability, the finished powdered iron core has a
low cost, and readily available technical information, maximum effective permeability of about 90.
soft ferrites are the most widely used magnetic material at
High- Frequency.
Powdered iron cores can be divided into three
permeability categories: high, medium, and low.

Scrapless Laminations and Shearings High permeability cores, 60 to 90, are used
primarily for EMI and energy storage filters. Effective
Scrapless laminations are usually in the shape of E-E’s, U- frequency range is up to about 75 KHz.
I’s, or E-I’s. They are punched from a continuous roll of
thin-gauge magnetic material, most commonly silicon-
iron, either non-oriented or oriented types. Nickel-iron

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 Soft Magnetic Applications Guide

Medium-permeability powdered iron cores, with 1. low-cost energy storage

permeabilities from 20 to 50, are used as RF
2. high energy storage per unit volume
transformers, pure inductors, and energy storage
inductors. These materials are used at frequencies 3. temperature stable
from 50 KHz to 2 MHz. They can handle higher 4. relatively low-cost tooling
flux densities and higher power levels without 5. available in a variety of shapes
saturating than can their ferrite counterparts. This
powdered iron family will become more attractive
Disadvantages of powdered iron are:
to switchmode power supply manufacturers as
nominal frequencies of operation fall into the range 1. limited permeabilities available
of 250 KHz to 1 MHz. 2. relatively high core loss
3. permeability varies with AC flux density
Low-permeability powdered iron cores, with
permeabilities of 7 to 20, are used almost exclu- sively Electrical testing for quality control purposes is primarily
in the RF range. Typical applications are RF transformers to determine the effective permeability of the core.
and pure inductors in the frequency range from 2 MHz Additional testing is occasionally done to determine
to 500 MHZ. Some radar applications use powdered saturation characteristics (DC bias testing) and core loss
iron cores at frequencies in excess of 1 GHz. Good flux properties (Q testing).
characteristics combined with low loss and good
temperature stability make this type of core material
popular for applications in the communications
industry.
MPP
Another type of powder core is the MPP core, pressed
The versatility of powdered iron pressing techniques
from powder made of 81% nickel, 2 to 4% molybdenum
allows for many varieties of sizes and shapes limited only
and balance iron. Raw materials are melted and cast into
to the extent of today’s metal powder pressing
billets, which are hot-rolled into a brittle sheet. This sheet
technology. Most powdered iron materials, after
is then milled into powder form. Insulating binders are
manufacture, can be ground and lightly machined for
mixed into the MPP powder before pressing into cores at
special shapes and prototypes.
high pressures of up to 20 tons per cm2. MPP cores are
stress-relief annealed after pressing (see Figure 12).
Because of inexpensive raw materials (iron), powdered
iron cores are used in low- cost applications, such as
consumer products. The normal effective permeability range for MPP is 14
through 350. In order to obtain low permeabilities
Advantages of powdered iron are: from a material with such an inherently high
permeability, a large amount of distributed air gap is

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 Soft Magnetic Applications Guide

added. Because of this large amount of air gap and 3. available graded into small increments of
resultant skewing of the hysteresis loop, MPP cores permeability range
are extremely stable relative to flux density,
temperature and DC current. They are almost always 4. lowest loss of the powder materials
used for inductors and other energy storage 5. permeability is stable with variations in AC flux
applications. density
6. lowest magnetostriction coefficient of the
MPP cores are normally sold pre-graded to a
specific permeability tolerance. This feature powder core materials
makes them ideal for pure inductors, because the
precise inductance will be known before winding Disadvantages of MPP:
and the number of turns wound onto the core can 1. manufacturing cost is higher than that of
be adjusted. MPP cores are also widely used for powdered iron because of the high- performance
energy storage inductors due to their low nickel/iron/molybdenum alloy and high-
inductance variability when DC bias is applied. temperature ceramic-type insulation.
The lower-permeability MPP cores can be used at 2. very high pressing pressures limit shapes to toroids
frequencies that exceed 500 KHz. As the only
permeability of the core increases, stability tends to
decrease. The most popular MPP permeabilities are Testing of MPP cores focusses on the evaluation of core
in the 60 to 173 range, where all the advantages of permeability. One additional step is to “grade” the cores
the MPP product are most apparent. into small increments of permeability. Core-loss, saturation,
and temperature response testing are also routinely
MPP has the advantage of having constant permeability performed.
as the flux density varies up to about 3500 gauss. Above
that level, permeability does tend to decrease.
HI-FLUX
Advantages of MPP:
1. permeability is ultra temperature-stable HI-FLUX cores are a variation of the standard MPP cores;
the composition is 50% nickel and 50% iron. Reduced
2. high energy storage per unit volume nickel content results in lower cost. The 50:50 composition is

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 Soft Magnetic Applications Guide
at a second, slightly lower permeability peak in the The raw materials are used in Sendust (SUPER-MSS) are
composition range of Ni and iron. The manufacturing less costly than either MPP or HI-FLUX.
procedure is nearly identical to that for MPP. HI-FLUX
cores are produced with permeabilities of 14 to 160 in Advantages of SUPER-MSS are:
diameters up to 132 mm. 1. significantly lower loss compared to powdered iron
HI-FLUX cores are designed to operate up to about 6500 with little added cost
gauss, as opposed to the 3500-gauss limit of standard 2. low-cost energy storage
MPP. There is some sacrifice in stability because less 3. high energy storage per unit volume
distributed air gap is required to obtain reduced
4. temperature stable
permeabilities. Core loss is also higher than MPP. Still,
because of their high flux and power-handling capabilities, 5. low magnetostriction, low noise
HI-FLUX cores are used as energy storage inductors and in
flyback transformers in SMPS. They are especially well Disadvantages of SUPER-MSS are:
suited for DC and line frequency noise filter inductors (such 1. limited permeabilities available compared to
as the differential-mode choke in a switched mode power MPP
supply). Their high saturation flux-density can be used to 2. higher core loss than MPP
advantage because core loss is negligible at the low
frequencies of these applications. 3. available only in toroids

Advantages of HI-FLUX: Testing is the same as for MPP and HI-FLUX.

1. temperature stability
2. high energy storage per unit volume Toroidal Tape Cores
3. available graded into small increments of
permeability range As the name implies, this type of core is toroidal in
4. higher Bmax than MPP shape and is manufactured from “tape” (continuous
alloy strip). The tape in this case is thin-gauge iron
5. permeabilities up to 160 compared to less than 100 for
alloy material that has been slit to a specified width.
powdered iron
Materials used depend on the desired combination of
Disadvantages of HI-FLUX: permeability, saturation flux, core loss, and loop
1. higher core loss than MPP squareness. Materials include the following:
2. manufacturing cost is higher than that of 1) Deltamax (50% Ni / 50% Fe)
powdered iron because of the high-
2) 4750 (47% Ni/ 53% Fe)
performance nickel / iron alloy and high-
temperature ceramic-type insulation. 3) 4-79 Mo-Permalloy (80% Ni / 4% Mo /16% Fe)
3. very high pressing pressures limit shapes to 4) Square Permalloy (80% Ni / 4% Mo / 16% Fe)
toroids only 5) Supermalloy (80 % Ni / 4% Mo / 16% Fe)
6) Supermendur (49% Co / 2% V / 49% Fe)
Electrical testing is the same as for MPP.
7) 2V Permendur (49% Co / 2% V / 49% Fe)
8) Square loop iron based amorphous Namglass I
SUPER-MSS 9) Linear iron based amorphous Namglass II
10) Ultra-square loop cobalt based amorphous
Sendust, or SUPER-MSS, is another variation of the basic Namglass III
powder core. The material is an iron / silicon / aluminum
composition manufactured in a manner similar to MPP Manufacturing of tape cores is quite similar, regardless
and HI-FLUX. of material. In all cases, an insulating coating is applied
to surfaces of the thin-gauge alloy strip to eliminate
Available permeabilities are 26, 60, 75, 90 and layer-to-layer shorting, and the strip is wound around an
125. Notable attributes of Sendust are low loss compared arbor piece (mandrel) which defines the ID of the
to powdered iron, HI-FLUX and MPP, and a very low toroid. The wound core is then stress-relief annealed.
magnetostriction coefficient relative to powdered iron.
Because of the low magnetostriction, it produces very low Annealing for some materials takes place with a DC field
mechanical noise levels when excitation is applied, which applied to the core to enhance the magntic properties.
makes it popular in EMI inductors where low-frequency AC After annealing, the toroid is put into a core “case” with
is being filtered. Core loss is higher than that of MPP but a protective damping medium. Toroidal tape cores are
less than HI-FLUX and substantially lower than that of quite strain-sensitive, and the case is necessary to
powdered iron. Like other powder cores, SUPER-MSS is prevent mechanical stresses which would degrade
low in permeability and thus well-suited for energy storage magnetic properties (see Figure 13).
inductor applications.
Description of available materials.

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 Soft Magnetic Applications Guide

Deltamax is a very square-loop material, meaning that response of the core and permits identification of
the BR value is very nearly the same as BS.(saturation important material parameters.
magnetization) This type of response is desireable in
some special-function transformers and inductors such 4750 is quite similar to Deltamax metallurgically. Instead
as MAG AMPS and Inverter Transfomers. of having a square hysteresis loop, however, 4750 has a
rounded loop with higher maximum permeability than
Raw-material costs are high. Processing Deltamax, as well Deltamax.
as all other tape cores, is such that cores are fairly
expensive. Applications tend to be military and 4750 is also an expensive material, so applications tend
industrial. Deltamax tape cores are available in 4, 2, 1 to be more specialized. Low-loss power transformers
and 1/2 mil tape thicknesses. and current transformers are two frequent applications
of 4750. 4750 tape cores are available in 4, 2, and 1 mil
Advantages of Deltamax tape cores are: tape thicknesses.
1. very square hysteresis loop Advantages of 4750 tape cores are:
2. saturation of about 15000 gauss 1. high permeability
2. saturation of about 15000 gauss
Disadvantages of Deltamax tape cores are:
1. requires care for maximum properties Disadvantages of 4750 tape cores are:
2. higher core loss than Permalloy-type material 1. requires case for maximum properties
3. expensive 2. higher core loss than Permalloy-type material
4. limited frequency response due to core loss 3. expensive
4. limited frequency response due to core loss
Testing of Deltamax tape cores is almost always with
the standard CCFR (constant current / flux reset) test. Cores are utilized for their high permeability so testing
This method measures the dynamic square loop focusses on that parameter. Initial permeability,
measured at low flux densities, is usually specified.

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 Soft Magnetic Applications Guide
As with the other tape cores, Supermalloy is most
4-79 Mo-Permalloy, more commonly known as Permalloy, often used in specialized applications. Typical markets
is a very high permeability, low core-loss material which would be military, industrial, and research.
exhibits a rounded hysteresis loop. Supermalloy tape cores are available in 4, 2, 1, and
1/2 mil tape thickness.
Permalloy i s most often used in specialized applications.
Current transformers and high-frequency power Advantages of Supermalloy tape core are:
transformers are typical. 4-79 Permalloy tape cores are
available in 4, 2, 1, and 1/2 mil tape thicknesses. 1. highest permeability
2. low core loss
Advantages of Permalloy tape cores are: 3. very low coercivity
1. high permeability
2. low core loss Disadvantages of Supermalloy tape cores:
3. low coercivity 1. require case for protection of properties
2. are expensive
Disadvantages of Permalloy tape cores are: 3. have low Bmax (8000 gauss)
1. requires case for maximum properties
2. expensive Cores are utilized for their high permeability so testing
focusses on that parameter. Initial permeability,
3. low Bmax (8000 gauss)
measured at low flux densities, is usually specified.
Cores are utilized for their high permeability so testing Supermendur is a cobalt-iron alloy for which the anneal
focusses on that parameter. Initial permeability, has been modified (includes DC stress) for square-loop
measured at low flux densities, is usually specified. response. Its most notable characteristic is a Bmax of 23
to 24 kilogauss. Although not as square as Deltamax, it
Square Permalloy is a variation of the basic Permalloy- is square enough to operate satisfactorily in 400 Hz mag
type material for which anneal has been modified to amps and inverter transformers. Because it generally is
generate square-loop properties. Although not as available only in 4 mil tape thickness, frequencies are
square as Deltamax, for instance, it is square enough to limited to 400 Hz and lower.
operate satisfactorily in mag amps and inverter
transformers, especially at frequencies up to about 80 Applications are almost always military.
KHz (in 1 mil material).
Advantages of Supermendur tape cores are:
Applications tend to be military and industrial. Square
1. square hysteresis loop
Permalloy tape cores are available in 4, 2, 1, and 1/2 mil
tape thickness. 2. highest Bmax

Advantages of Square Permalloy tape cores are: Disadvantages of Supermendur tape cores:
1. square hysteresis loop 1. require case for protection of properties
2. low core loss 2. are very expensive
3. limited frequency response due to high core
Disadvantages of Square Permalloy tape cores loss
are: 4. 4 mil tape only
1. requires case for maximum properties
2. expensive Testing of Supermendur toroidal tape cores is almost
always with the standard CCFR (constant current / flux
3. limited frequency response due to moderate core
reset) test. This method measures the dynamic square
loss
loop response of the core and permits identification of
4. limited Bmax (8000 gauss) important material parameters.

Testing of Square Permalloy tape cores is almost always 2V Permendur is basically the same alloy as Supermendur.
with the standard CCFR (constant current / flux reset) test. Instead of a square hysteresis loop, however, 2V Permendur
This method measures the dynamic square loop response has a rounded loop with higher maximum permeability than
of the core and permits identification of important material Supermendur. Bmax is slightly lower at 21 to 22 kilogauss.
parameters. 2V Permendur is notable for its very high magnetostriction
Supermalloy is another variation of the high- nickel, coefficient.
Permalloy-type alloy. It is state-of-the art tape core Applications usually are military or industrial. 2V Permendur
material, as far as highest permeability is concerned. tape cores are available in 4 and 2 mil tape thickness.
Applications that take advantage of such properties
include current transformers.
Advantages of 2V Permendur tape cores are:

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 Soft Magnetic Applications Guide
1. high magnetostriction
2. saturation of about 21000 gauss Namglass III is another amorphous alloy. Namglass III is
an ultra-square-loop material that finds use almost
Disadvantages of 2V Permendur tape cores: exclusively in high-frequency mag amps. Its metallurgical
composition is quite different from the other two
1. requires case for maximum properties amorphous materials in that Namglass III contains cobalt.
2. higher cores loss than Permalloy-type
material Namglass III is finding ever-increasing application in
3. very expensive industrial and military power-supply designs.
4. limited frequency of use due to high core loss
Advantages of Namglass III tape cores are:
Because cores are utilized for their high permeability, 1. lowest magnetostriction
testing centers on that parameter. Initial permeability 2. ultra-square-loop response
(measured at low flux densities) is usually specified. 2V 3. highest-volume resistivity
Permendur also is tested for Bmax and occasionally for
core loss. 4. lowest high-frequency core loss
5. lowest coercivity
Namglass I is one of the amorphous alloys. Raw
material is 1 mil thick and slit to the specified width. Disadvantages of Namglass III tape cores:
None of the amorphous materials can be rolled to 1. requires case for maximum properties
less than 1 mil. Namglass I is a moderately square-
2. very expensive
loop material that finds use in Pulse Transformers.
3. low Bmax (approx. 5500)
Raw material costs are quite high, so markets tend to be in
more-specialized industrial areas, such as medical Namglass III toroidal tape cores are evaluated with the
applications. standard CCFR (constant current / flux reset) test. This
method measures the dynamic square-loop response of
Advantages of Namglass I tape cores are: the core and permits identification of important
material parameters. Occasionally, Namglass III is also
1. low magnetostriction
tested for core loss.
2. saturation of about 14000 gauss
3. high volume resistivity
Cut Tape Cores
Disadvantages of Namglass I tape cores are:
The term “tape core” can refer not only to the conventional
1. requires case for maximum properties
toroid but also to C and E-Cores made of tape-core
2. higher core loss than permalloy-type material lamination materials. The practice is justified because the
3. very expensive cores are wound and annealed in the same manner and
4. limited frequency response due to core loss with the same equipment as the toroidal versions.
The magnetic materials are the same as for toroids with
Namglass I is tested for Bmax and for core loss. the exception of amorphous material, which may not b e
available in cut core form at this time. The
Namglass II is another amorphous alloy, similar in manufacturing procedure is similar but, instead of being
composition to Namglass I. Namglass II is a linear cased, the cores are impregnated with epoxy and cut
permeability material that finds use in Pulse appr o ximate l y in half. Three- phase cores also are
Transformers and also in Common-Mode Inductors. produced - something that would be physically
impossible with a toroid. Because of this flexibility, there
Advantages of Namglass II tapes cores are: is almost no manufacturing size limitation for cut cores. On
1. low magnetostriction tape-core materials, however, there is a maximum strip width
of 2.00 to 14 inches based on gauge of material. (see Figure
2. saturation of about 14000 gauss
13).
3. high volume resistivity
4. low high-frequency core loss Cut cores do not have cases like tape cores; they are
impregnated for mechanical rigidity. However, epoxy
Disadvantages of Namglass II tape cores are: impregnation of tape-wound cores tends to re-stress the
1. requires case for maximum properties fragile material, reducing permeability and increasing core
loss. As a rule, the performance of the cut tape cores will
2. very expensive
be significantly worse than the cased toroid. The amount of
3. moderate permeability (approx. 5000) degradation is not always predictable, but can be of the
order of 30% more core loss and 50% reduction of
Namglass II is tested for Bmax , core loss, and for permeability. The tradeoffs are that cut cores are much
permeability. easier to wind (with copper wire) and additional air gap can

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 Soft Magnetic Applications Guide

be added to the core. This last point means that this type wound toroids are limited to 1/2 mil thickness, but bobbin
of core can be used not only for transformers but also for cores can be manufactured from tape as thin as 1/8 mil.
inductors. The cut tape core generally is considered a Manufacturing is similar to the standard toroidal tape core,
high-performance alternative to the Silectron C-Core. except that the bobbin defines the ID of the core instead of
mandrel. Materials commonly used are Deltamax and
One thing cut tape cores do have in common with Permalloy (see Figure 14).
toroidal versions is the cost factor: Both are expensive.
Applications tend to be more exotic and specialized. Bobbin cores are characterized by very high permeability
at low flux levels, square loop response, and very low
Advantages of cut tape cores are: coercivity. They originally were conceived for “core
1. can insert discrete air gap memory” applications which industry is all but extinct and
what is left utilizes soft ferrites. The most popular
2. can wind with foils and large-diameter wire
application today is in various Magnetometer designs
3. easier to wind than toroids which include compasses and fusing devices for armament,
4. lower core loss than Silectron C-Cores sonobuoys. These utilize the very high permeability of the
5. Supermendur cut cores allow highest energy capacity core material. Another growing application for bobbin
cores is as inverter transformers in small, board-mount DC-
Disadvantages of cut tape cores are: DC converters.
1. expensive Because of high material costs and high labor content,
2. higher core loss than toroid bobbin cores tend to be extremely expensive on a per-pound
3. lower permeability than toroid basis.
4. hard to make large cores of thinner tape
Advantages of bobbin cores are:
Testing of cut tape cores is primarily to evaluate them for core 1. can wind in ultra-thin tape
loss and exciting losses. Occasionally Bmax will be 2. can be made with very small OD/ID/HT
evaluated. 3. very high permeability
4. impervious to shock because tape is attached to
bobbin
Bobbin Tape Wound Cores
Disadvantages of bobbin cores are:
A special variant of tape core, the bobbin core is similar to
5. expensive
the standard toroid tape core except that, because build-
ups of ultra-thin tape generally are quite small, the 6. poor use of space due to presence of bobbin
material is wound on a bobbin which can be plastic, stainless 7. bobbin must be machined to size
steel or a similar material. Alloy strips used in standard tape- 8. difficult to manufacture

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 Soft Magnetic Applications Guide

Testing of bobbin cores normally follows a special pulse Advantages of Silectron C-Cores:
test sequence that was designed around the “core 1. available in three-phase form
memory” application. It is somewhat similar to a CCFR
2. coil is easy to wind
test and does an adequate job of revealing important
parameters. Some bobbin core customers provide highly 3. coil can utilize foils and heavy-gauge wire
specialized test fixtures that perform application- 4. can insert varying amounts of air gap
specific testing. 5. inexpensive
6. high flux capacity
Silectron Toroids Disadvantages of Silectron C-Cores:
Silectron is a grain-oriented, 3.25% Si / 96% Fe alloy. 1. high core loss
One popular core configuration is the toroid, not unlike 2. moderate permeability material
the toroidal tape core. Manufacturing of Silectron 3. air gap lowers permeability
toroids is virtually identical to that of other toroid tape
cores. This type of core is available in a core case, like Testing of Silectron C-Cores is predominately for core
tape cores, or with epoxy impregnation or epoxy loss and exciting losses. 1 and 2 mil C-Cores are
impregnation and epoxy coating. As with cut tape routinely tested for pulse permeability and this also
cores, the impregnation process degrades the reveals information about core loss and exciting
properties of the material. energy. Special permeability testing, similar to that
performed on powder cores, is sometimes performed.
Silectron has a moderately high permeability and high
flux density. Applications for Silectron toroids are current
transformers, low-frequency power transformers, and low-
Distributed Gap Cores
frequency mag amps. Silectron toroids are available in
11, 9, 6, 4, 2, and 1 mil tape thicknesses. DG (distributed gap, sometimes called “take apart”)
cores are a special variation of the Silectron C-Core.
Because of Silectron’s high flux density and low cost, They are similar in shape to a C-Core, but the air gap
applications are more general in nature than nickel-iron, is “distributed” over a portion of the magnetic length.
cobalt-iron, or amorphous toroids. Winding is accomplished by a special machine. The
core is not impregnated, and it is assembled onto the
Advantages of Silectron toroids: coil by the customer. Anneal is the same as other
1. relatively inexpensive Silectron cores. Only thicker material (9 to 12 mil) is
utilized.
2. high Bmax
This type of core is used almost exclusively for 60
Disadvantages of Silectron toroids are:
Hz distribution transformers.
1. higher core loss than tape core
2. difficult to wind due to toroidal shape Testing is to determine core loss and exciting losses.

Testing of Silectron is almost always for cores loss and

exciting loss. Occasionally, Bmax or BH loop testing is Selection of material by Application
conducted.
In general, the choice of magnetic material is the result of a
trade-off between saturation flux density, energy loss and
Silectron C and E-cores cost.
Cut cores made of Silectron are manufactured identically Keep in mind the distinction between inductors (energy
to cut tape cores. The type of insulation used on the tape storage) and transformers (energy transfer) as you review
and the method of anneal may differ but, for the most part, the following analysis showing specific usage.
the process is the same.
Like uncut Silectron cores, Silectron C-Cores have LOW-FREQUENCY POWER CONVERSION
moderately high permeability. Without added air gap, Power conversion includes the following specific
they find use in low-frequency power transformers and applications, which could turn up in any number of
pulse transformers. With air gap added, they are used in industries. What is actually being described is an electrical
inductor applications. The only limitation to use is core function, not a job-specific device.
loss.
Distribution power transformers
Silectron is a low-cost material, and applications cover Silectron C and E-Cores Silectron toroids
the full spectrum of the marketplace. Supermendur C and E-Cores (400 HZ) DG cores

SMAG rev.2015a Page: 19 © Arnold Magnetic Technologies

 Soft Magnetic Applications Guide
Welding Transformers Bobbin cores
Silectron C-Cores
Flyback Transformers
Rectifier Transformers MPP, HI-FLUX and SUPER-MSS
Silectron C and E-Cores
Supermendur C and E-Cores
Instrumentation (current transformers, magnetometers)
Mag Amps and Saturable Reactors Permalloy and Supermalloy toroid tape core
Silectron C-Cores Permalloy Bobbins cores
Silectron toroids
Supermendur toroid tape cores
Deltamax toroid tape cores MAJOR INDUSTRY GROUPS AND TYPICAL
Square Permalloy toroid tape cores APPLICATIONS

Pulse transformers Computer

Silectron C-Cores High-frequency power conversion
Permalloy, Supermalloy, Deltamax, and High-frequency applications
Supermendur cut cores Low-frequency power conversion
Permalloy, Supermalloy, Deltamax, Namglass I, All listed in Low-Frequency power conversion except for
Namglass II, and Supermendur toroid tape cores welding transformers, pulse trans- formers, and
Silectron toroids instrumentation magnetics
Special Silectron structures
Instrumentation (current and potential transformers) High-performance laminated motor parts
Silectron C-Cores
Silectron toroids Automotive
Permalloy, Supermalloy, and Deltamax cut cores High frequency
Permalloy, Supermalloy, Namglass I, and Permalloy bobbin cores for magnetometers used
Namglass II toroid tape cores in compasses.
MPP, SUPER-MSS, HI-FLUX MPP, HI-FLUX, SUPER-MSS and Silectron for
magnetics used in special ignition systems
Power Inductors Low frequency
Silectron C-Cores Welding transformers
Permalloy, Supermalloy, and Deltamax cut cores Special Silectron structures for fuel-injection systems
MPP, SUPER-MSS, HI-FLUX
Motor speed control/Light dimmer
EMI Inductors C-Cores for EMI and A.C. filters SUPER-
Silectron C-Cores MSS for EMI and A.C. filters
Permalloy, Supermalloy, and Deltamax cut cores Silectron toroids for current transformers Toroid
Namglass I and Namglass II toroid tape cores tape cores for current transformers SUPER-
MPP, SUPER-MSS, HI-FLUX MSS for current transformers Silectron toroids
for mag amps
Toroid tape cores for mag amps
HIGH-FREQUENCY APPLICATIONS
Instrumentation
D.C. Filters Silectron toroids with gaps for Hall effect
MPP, SUPER-MSS, HI-FLUX Silectron C-Cores current sense
Permalloy, Supermalloy, and Deltamax cut cores Toroid tape cores with gaps for Hall effect
current sense
A.C. Filters Permalloy bobbins cores for magnetometers Silectron
MPP, SUPER-MSS, HI-FLUX toroids for current transformers Toroid tape cores
Permalloy, Supermalloy, and Deltamax cut cores for current transformers
MPP, HI-FLUX, SUPER-MSS for D.C./A.C. filters
High Q Filters Silectron C-Cores for current transformers
MPP
Electrical utility hardware
Mag Amp and Saturable Reactor DG cores for distribution transformers
Square Permalloy and Namglass III toroid tape core Silectron C-cores used for power factor adjusting
inductors
Power transformers Silectron C-Cores and toroids for current trans-
Namglass II, Permalloy, and Supermalloy toroid tape formers and for potential transformers
cores
Permalloy, Supermalloy, and Deltamax cut cores Medical equipment

SMAG rev.2015a Page: 20 © Arnold Magnetic Technologies

 Soft Magnetic Applications Guide
C-cores for HV transfomers High-frequency power conversion. See
C-cores for EMI filters High-Frequency Applications
MPP, HI-FLUX and SUPER-MSS for EMI Filters Low-frequency power conversion. See
High-frequency power conversion. See Low-Frequency conversion
High-Frequency Applications
C-Cores for high-efficiency 60 HZ power Military hardware
transformers High-frequency power conversion. See
High-Frequency Applications
Welding and other metal processing Low-frequency power conversion. See
C-Cores for high frequency induction furnaces C- Low-Frequency conversion
Cores for step-down welding transformers
Silectron toroids for current transformers Lighting and Plasma Displays
Silectron toroids for mag amp control High-frequency power conversion. See
Toroid tape for current transformers High-Frequency Applications
Toroid tape core for mag amp control Low-frequency power conversion. See
Low-Frequency conversion
Telecommunications
MPP for loading coils

SMAG rev.2015a Page: 21 © Arnold Magnetic Technologies

 Appendix Recommended Applications

TYPICAL TEMP.
FREQUENCY RANGE SIZE/SHAPE POWER ADVANTAGES/
MATERIAL RANGE °C LIMITATIONS CAPACITY COST (DISADVANTAGES)

POWER TRANSFORMERS
Ferrites
Power Ferrites 10kHz–2 MHz -55 to 150 E’s, toroids, Pot Cores. Low Low High Perm, Low Loss at
Limited to 500 cm3 High Hz (Low Saturation Flux)

High Freq Ferrites 50kHz–1GHz -55 to 150 E’s, toroids, Pot Cores. Low Medium Good perm, Loss at High Hz
Limited to 250 cm3 (Low Saturation Flux)

MPP, HI-FLUX, SUPER-MSS

MPP 5kHz–200 kHz -55 to 200 Toroids up to 132 mm Medium High Very Stable (Low Perm usually
limits transformer applications
to flyback types.)

HI-FLUX 5kHz–50 kHz -55 to 200 Toroids up to 132 mm Medium High Very Stable, High Saturation
(Low Perm usually limits
transformer applications to
flyback types.)

SUPER-MSS 5 kHz–200 kHz -55 to 200 Toroids up to 132 mm Medium Medium Very Stable, High Saturation
(Low Perm usually limits
transformer applications to
flyback types.)

Powdered Iron
High Perm NR NR NR NR NR (High Loss, Low Perm)

Medium Perm 25 kHz–1MHz -55 to 155 Unlimited to 350 cm3 Medium Low Low Loss, Good Stability
(Low Perm)

Low Perm 1MHz–1 GHz -55 to 155 Unlimited to 350 cm3 Medium Low Low Loss, Good Stability
(Low Perm)

Tape Cores
Ni-Fe 50 Hz–100kHz -55 to 200 Toroids Unlimited Size High High Highest Perm, Square Loop,
High Saturation (High Cost,
Toroids)

Si-Fe 50 Hz–10 kHz -55 to 350 Toroids Unlimited Size Very High Medium High Perm, High Saturation Flux
(Core Loss, Toroids Only)

Co-Fe 50 Hz–1 kHz -55 to 450 Toroids Unlimited Size Very High Very High Highest Saturation Flux
(High Cost, 4 mil only,
Toroids only)

Amorphous 50 Hz–500 kHz -55 to 175 Toroids to 130 mm High High Low Loss, High Saturation Flux
(High Cost, Toroids Only)

SMAG rev.2015a Page: 22 © Arnold Magnetic Technologies

 Appendix Recommended Applications (Cont.)

TYPICAL TEMP.
FREQUENCY RANGE SIZE/SHAPE POWER ADVANTAGES/
MATERIAL RANGE °C LIMITATIONS CAPACITY COST (DISADVANTAGES)

POWER TRANSFORMERS (Cont.)

Cut Cores
Si-Fe 50 Hz–10 kHz -55 to 175 Toroids, E’s & U’s Very High High Good Perm, High Saturation Flux
Unlimited Size (Core Loss, Air Gap Effects)

Ni-Fe 50 Hz–100 kHz -55 to 175 Toroids, E’s & U’s High High High Perm, High Saturation Flux
Unlimited Size (High Cost, Air Gap Effects)

Co-Fe 50 Hz–1 kHz -55 to 175 Toroids, E’s & U’s Very High Very High Highest Saturation Flux
Unlimited Size (Highest Cost, Air Gap Effects)

Bobbin Core
Ni-Fe 5 kHz–1 MHz -55 to 200 Small Toroids Low High Low Loss, High Perm (Small Size,
Toroids)

Dist. Gap
Si-Fe 50–60 Hz -55 to 200 Single Phase, Three Very High Low High Perm, Small Air Gap
(Low Frequency Only, Si-Fe Only)

Scrapless Lams and Shearings

Si-Fe, Co-Fe, 50–60 Hz -55 to 200 Single Phase, Three Very High Low High Perm, Small Air Gap
and Ni-Fe Phase, Unlimited Size Unlimited Size (Low Frequency
Only, Si-Fe Only)

RF TRANSFORMERS
Ferrites
Power Ferrites 1 MHz-–5 MHz -55 to 150 Mostly Cyl, Pot Cores. Low Low High Perm, Tunable, High Q
Other small Shapes (Poor Stability, Mu Tolerance)

High Freq Ferrites 1 MHz–1 GHz -55 to 150 Toroids Pot Cores Low Medium Good perm, Tunable
Small Shapes High Q at High Frequency

MPP, HI-FLUX, SUPER-MSS

MPP 1 MHz–2 MHz -55 to 200 Toroids up to 132 mm Low High Very Stable (Low Perm,
Lower Q than Ferrite)

HI-FLUX NR NR NR NR NR (High Loss)

SUPER-MSS NR NR NR NR NR

Powdered Iron
High Perm NR NR NR NR NR (High Loss)

Medium Perm 1 MHz–10 MHz -55 to 155 Unlimited to 350 cm3 Medium Medium Good Stability

Low Perm 10 MHz–500 MHz -55 to 155 Unlimited to 350 cm3 Medium Medium Low Loss, Good Stability
(Low Perm)

SMAG rev.2015a Page: 23 © Arnold Magnetic Technologies

 Appendix Recommended Applications (Cont.)

TYPICAL TEMP.
FREQUENCY RANGE SIZE/SHAPE POWER ADVANTAGES/
MATERIAL RANGE °C LIMITATIONS CAPACITY COST (DISADVANTAGES)

RF TRANSFORMERS (Cont.)
Tape Cores
Ni-Fe 1 MHz–2 MHz -55 to 200 Toroids Unlimited Size High High High Perm (Good Q at Low Flux
Only, High Cost, Toroids Only)

Si-Fe NR NR NR NR NR (High Loss)

Co-Fe NR NR NR NR NR (High Loss)

Amorphous 1 MHz–2 MHz -55 to 175 Toroids to 130 mm High High Low Loss, High Saturation Flux
(High Cost, Toroids Only)

Cut Cores
Si-Fe NR NR NR NR NR (High Loss)

Ni-Fe NR NR NR NR NR (High Loss)

Co-Fe NR NR NR NR NR (High Loss)

Bobbin Core
Ni-Fe 1 MHz–5 MHz -55 to 200 Small Toroids Low High Low Loss, High Perm (Small Size
Low Flux for High Q)

Dist. Gap
Si-Fe NR NR NR NR NR (High Loss)

Scrapless Lams and Shearings

Si-Fe, Co-Fe, NR NR NR NR NR (High Loss)
and Ni-Fe

PRECISION TRANSFORMERS
Ferrites
Power Ferrites 10 kHz–5 MHz -55 to 150 E’s, toroids, Pot Cores. Medium Low Good Perm, Low Loss at High
Limited to 500 cm3 Frequency (Low Saturation Flux)

High Freq NR NR NR NR NR (Low Perm)

MPP, HI-FLUX, SUPER-MSS

MPP DC–500 kHz -55 to 200 Toroids up to 132 mm. Very Low High Low Perm is useful in sensing
applications where high
frequency, small-signals are
superposed on high-current
conductors.

HI-FLUX NR NR NR NR NR (Low Perm)

SUPER-MSS NR NR NR NR NR (Low Perm)

SMAG rev.2015a Page: 24 © Arnold Magnetic Technologies

 Appendix Recommended Applications (Cont.)

TYPICAL TEMP.
FREQUENCY RANGE SIZE/SHAPE POWER ADVANTAGES/
MATERIAL RANGE °C LIMITATIONS CAPACITY COST (DISADVANTAGES)

PRECISION TRANSFORMERS (Cont.)

Powdered Iron
High Perm NR NR NR NR NR (Low Perm)

Medium Perm NR NR NR NR NR (Low Perm)

Low Perm NR NR NR NR NR (Low Perm)

Tape Cores
Ni-Fe to appro 10 MHz -55 to 200 Toroids Unlimited Size High High Highest Perm, Best Accuracy,
High Sat. (High Cost, Toroids)

Si-Fe 50 Hz–10 kHz -55 to 350 Toroids Unlimited Size Very High Low Good Perm, High Saturation
Flux (Core Loss, Toroids Only)

Co-Fe 50 Hz–1 kHz -55 to 450 Toroids Unlimited Size Very High Very High Highest Saturation Flux,
Magnetostrictive (High Cost,
Losses)

Amorphous 50 Hz–2 MHz -55 to 175 Toroids Unlimited Size High Very Low Loss, High Saturation Flux
(High Cost, Toroids Only)

Cut Cores
Si-Fe 50 Hz–10 kHz -55 to 175 Toroids, E’s & U’s Very High Low Good Perm, High Saturation
Unlimited Size Flux (Core Loss, Air Gap Effects)

Ni-Fe 50 Hz–100 kHz -55 to 175 Toroids, E’s & U’s High High High Perm, High Saturation Flux
Unlimited Size (High Cost, Air Gap Effects)

Co-Fe 50 Hz–1 kHz -55 to 175 Toroids, E’s & U’s Very High Very High Highest Saturation Flux
Unlimited Size (Highest Cost, Air Gap Effects)

Bobbins Core
Ni-Fe to 2 MHz -55 to 200 Small Toroids Low High Low Loss, High Perm, Ultra thin
Tapes (Small Size, Toroids Only)

Dist. Gap
Si-Fe 50–60 Hz -55 to 200 Single Phase, Very High Low High Perm, Small Air Gap
Three Phase (Low Frequency Only, Si-Fe Only)

Scrapless Lam and Shearing

Si-Fe, Co-Fe, 50–60Hz -55 to 200 Single Phase, Three Very High Low High Perm, Small Air Gap,
and Ni-Fe Phase, Unlimited Size Unlimited Size (Low Frequency
Only, 9-12 mil Si-Fe Only)

SMAG rev.2015a Page: 25 © Arnold Magnetic Technologies

 Appendix Recommended Applications (Cont.)

TYPICAL TEMP.
FREQUENCY RANGE SIZE/SHAPE POWER ADVANTAGES/
MATERIAL RANGE °C LIMITATIONS CAPACITY COST (DISADVANTAGES)

SATURABLE REACTORS
Ferrites
Power Ferrites 10kHz–2 MHz -55 to 150 E’s, toroids, Pot Cores. Low Low Good Perm, Low Core Loss
Limited to 500 cm3 (Low Saturation Flux,
High Hysteresis)

High Freq Ferrites NR NR NR NR NR (Low Perm)

MPP, HI-FLUX, SUPER-MSS

MPP NR NR NR NR NR (Low Perm)

HI-FLUX NR NR NR NR NR (Low Perm)

SUPER-MSS NR NR NR NR NR (Low Perm)

Powdered Iron
High Perm NR NR NR NR NR (Low Perm)

Medium Perm NR NR NR NR NR (Low Perm)

Low Perm NR NR NR NR NR (Low Perm)

Tape Cores
Ni-Fe 50 Hz–100 kHz -55 to 200 Toroids Unlimited Size High High Highest Perm, Square Loop,
High Saturation (High Cost,
Toroids)

Si-Fe 50 Hz–10 kHz -55 to 350 Toroids Unlimited Size Very High Medium Good Perm, High Saturation
Flux, Good Squareness
(Core Loss)

Co-Fe 50 Hz–1 kHz -55 to 450 Toroids Unlimited Size Very High Very High Highest Saturation Flux, Square
Loop (High Cost, 4 mil Only)

Amorphous 50 Hz–2 kHz -55 to 175 Toroids to 130 mm High High Low Loss, Ultra Square Loop
(High Cost, Toroids Only)

Cut Cores
Si-Fe 50 Hz–10 kHz -55 to 175 Toroids, E’s & U’s Very High Low Good Perm, High Saturation
Unlimited Size Flux (Core Loss, Air Gap Effects)

Ni-Fe 50 Hz–100 kHz -55 to 175 Toroids, E’s & U’s High High High Perm, High Saturation Flux
Unlimited Size (High Cost, Air Gap Effects)

Co-Fe 50 Hz–1 kHz -55 to 175 Toroids, E’s & U’s Very High Very High Very High Saturation Flux
Unlimited Size (Highest Cost, Air Gap Effects)

Bobbin Core
Ni-Fe 5 kHz–2 MHz -55 to 200 Small Toroids Low High Low Loss, High Perm, Very Square
(Small Size, Toroids)

SMAG rev.2015a Page: 26 © Arnold Magnetic Technologies

 Appendix Recommended Applications (Cont.)

TYPICAL TEMP.
FREQUENCY RANGE SIZE/SHAPE POWER ADVANTAGES/
MATERIAL RANGE °C LIMITATIONS CAPACITY COST (DISADVANTAGES)

SATURABLE REACTORS (Cont.)

Dist. Gap
Si-Fe 50–60 Hz -55 to 200 Single Phase, Very High Low High Perm, Small Air Gap
Three Phase (Low Frequency Only,
Thick mil Only)

Scrapless Lams and Shearings

Si-Fe, Co-Fe, 50–60 Hz -55 to 200 Single Phase, Three Very High Low High Perm, Small Air Gap,
and Ni-Fe Phase, Unlimited Size Unlimited Size (Low Frequency
Only, Thick mil Si-Fe Only)

PURE INDUCTORS
Ferrites
Power Ferrites 10 kHz–5 MHz -55 to 150 E’s, toroids, Pot Cores. Low Low High Perm, Low Loss, Tunable
Limited to 500 cm3 (Low Saturation Flux, Poor
Stability)

High Freq Ferrites 50kHz–1 GHz -55 to 150 E’s, toroids, Pot Cores. Medium Medium Good perm, Low Loss, Tunable
Limited to 250 cm3 (Low Saturation, Poor Stability)

MPP, HI-FLUX, SUPER-MSS

MPP DC-300 kHz -55 to 200 Toroids up to 132 mm High High Very Stable, High Saturation,
Low Magnetostriction, Lowest
Loss of Powder Materials

HI-FLUX DC-100 kHz -55 to 200 Toroids up to 132 mm Very High High Very Stable, Higher Saturation
than MPP or Super-MSS

SUPER-MSS DC-300 kHz -55 to 200 Toroids up to 132 mm High Medium Very Stable, High Saturation,
Low Magnetostriction, Low Loss

Powdered Iron
High Perm 1 kHz–50 kHz -55 to 175 Toroids up to 132 mm High Low High Saturation, Low Cost
(Core Loss, Low Perm)

Medium Perm 50 kHz–2 MHz -55 to 155 Unlimited to 350 cm3 High Low Low Loss, Good Stability
(Low Perm)

Low Perm 1 MHz–500 MHz -55 to 155 Unlimited to 350 cm3 High Medium Low Loss, Good Stability
(Low Perm)

Tape Cores
Ni-Fe 50 Hz–500 kHz -55 to 200 Toroids Unlimited Size Low High Highest Perm, High Saturation
(High Cost, Low Energy)

Si-Fe 50 Hz–10 kHz -55 to 350 Toroids Unlimited Size Low Medium High Perm, High Saturation Flux
(Core Loss, Low Energy)

Co-Fe 50 Hz–1 kHz -55 to 450 Toroids Unlimited Size Low Very High Highest Saturation Flux (High
Cost, 4 mil Only, Low Energy)

Amorphous 50 Hz–500 kHz -55 to 175 Toroids to 130 mm Low High Low Loss, High Saturation Flux
(High Cost, Low Energy)

SMAG rev.2015a Page: 27 © Arnold Magnetic Technologies

 Appendix Recommended Applications (Cont.)

TYPICAL TEMP.
FREQUENCY RANGE SIZE/SHAPE POWER ADVANTAGES/
MATERIAL RANGE °C LIMITATIONS CAPACITY COST (DISADVANTAGES)

PURE INDUCTORS (Cont.)

Cut Cores
Si-Fe 50 Hz–10 kHz -55 to 175 Toroids, E’s & U’s Very High Medium Good Perm, High Saturation Flux
Unlimited Size (Core Loss)

Ni-Fe 50 Hz–100 kHz -55 to 175 Toroids, E’s & U’s High High High Perm, High Saturation Flux
Unlimited Size (High Cost)

Co-Fe 50 Hz–1 kHz -55 to 175 Toroids, E’s & U’s Very High Very High Highest Saturation Flux
Unlimited Size (Highest Cost)

Bobbin Core
Ni-Fe 5 kHz–1 MHz -55 to 200 Small Toroids Very Low High Low Loss, High Perm
(Small Size,Toroids)

Dist. Gap
Si-Fe 50–60 Hz -55 to 200 Single Phase, Low Low High Perm, Small Air Gap (Low
Three Phase Frequency Only, Thick mil Only)

Scrapless Lams and Shearings

Si-Fe, Co-Fe, 50–60 Hz -55 to 200 Single Phase, Three Very High Low High Perm, Small Air Gap,
and Ni-Fe Phase, Unlimited Size Unlimited Size (Low Frequency
Only, Thick mil Si-Fe Only)

EMI FILTERS
Ferrites
Power Ferrites 10 kHz–5 MH -55 to 150 E’s, toroids, Pot Cores. Low Low High Perm, Low Loss
Limited to 500 cm3 (Low Saturation Flux,
Poor Stability)

High Freq Ferrites 50 kHz–1 GHz -55 to 150 E’s, toroids, Pot Cores. Medium Medium Good perm, Low Loss (Low
Limited to 250 cm3 Saturation Flux, Poor Stability)

MPP, HI-FLUX, SUPER-MSS

MPP DC-1 MHz -55 to 200 Toroids up to 132 mm High High Very Stable, High Saturation,
Low Magnetostriction,
Wide Range of Permeability

HI-FLUX DC-300 kHz -55 to 200 Toroids up to 132 mm Very High High Very Stable, Higher Saturation
than MPP or Super-MSS

SUPER-MSS DC-1 MHz -55 to 200 Toroids up to 132 mm High Medium Very Stable, High Saturation,
Low Magnetostriction

SMAG rev.2015a Page: 28 © Arnold Magnetic Technologies

 Appendix Recommended Applications (Cont.)

TYPICAL TEMP.
FREQUENCY RANGE SIZE/SHAPE POWER ADVANTAGES/
MATERIAL RANGE °C LIMITATIONS CAPACITY COST (DISADVANTAGES)

EMI FILTERS (Cont.)

Powdered Iron
High Perm 50 kHz–500 kHz -55 to 175 Toroids up to 132 mm High Low High Saturation, Low Cost
(Core Loss)

Medium Perm 50 kHz–2 MHz -55 to 155 Unlimited to 350 cm3 High Low Low Loss, Good Stability
(Low Perm)

Low Perm 2 MHz–500 MHz -55 to 155 Unlimited to 350 cm3 High Medium Low Loss, Good Stability
(Low Perm)

Tape Cores
Ni-Fe 50 Hz–2 MHz -55 to 200 Toroids Unlimited Size Low High Highest Perm, High Saturation
(High Cost, Low Energy)

Si-Fe 50 Hz–10kHz -55 to 350 Toroids Unlimited Size Low Medium High Perm, High Saturation Flux
(Core Loss, Low Energy)

Co-Fe 50 Hz-1 kHz -55 to 450 Toroids Unlimited Size Low Very High Highest Saturation Flux (High
Cost, 4 mil Only, Low Energy)

Amorphous 50 Hz–2 MHz -55 to 175 Toroids Unlimited Size Low High Low Loss, High Saturation Flux
(High Cost, Low Energy)

Cut Cores
Si-Fe 50 Hz–10 kHz -55 to 175 Toroids, E’s & U’s Very High Medium Good Perm, High Saturation Flux
Unlimited Size (Core Loss, Requires Air Gap)

Ni-Fe 50 Hz–250 kHz -55 to 175 Toroids, E’s & U’s High High High Perm, High Saturation Flux
Unlimited Size (High Cost, Requires Air Gap)

Co-Fe 50 Hz–1 kHz -55 to 175 Toroids, E’s & U’s Very High Very High Highest Saturation Flux
Unlimited Size (Highest Cost, Requires Air Gap)

Bobbin Cores
Ni-Fe 5 kHz–1 MHz -55 to 200 Small Toroids Very Low High Low Loss, High Perm (Small Size,
Low Energy)

Dist. Gap
Si-Fe 50–60 Hz -55 to 200 Single Phase, Medium Low High Perm, Small Air Gap (Low
Three Phase Frequency Only, Thick mil Only)

Scrapless Lams and Shearings

Si-Fe, Co-Fe, 50–60 Hz -55 to 200 Single Phase, Three Very High Low High Perm, Unlimited Size (Low
and Ni-Fe Phase, Unlimited Size Frequency Only, Thick mil Si-Fe
Only, Requires Air Gap)

SMAG rev.2015a Page: 29 © Arnold Magnetic Technologies

 Appendix Recommended Applications (Cont.)

TYPICAL TEMP.
FREQUENCY RANGE SIZE/SHAPE POWER ADVANTAGES/
MATERIAL RANGE °C LIMITATIONS CAPACITY COST (DISADVANTAGES)

ENERGY STORAGE INDUCTORS

Ferrites
Power Ferrites 10 kHz–500 kHz -55 to 150 E’s, toroids, Pot Cores. Medium Low High Perm, Low Loss, Tunable
Limited to 500 cm3 (Low Saturation, Requires Gap)

High Freq Ferrites 50 kHz–500 MHz -55 to 150 E’s, toroids, Pot Cores. Medium Medium Good perm, Low Loss, Tunable
Limited to 250 cm3 (Low Saturation, Poor Stability)

MPP, HI-FLUX, SUPER-MSS

MPP DC-300 kHz -55 to 200 Toroids up to 132 mm High High Very Stable, High Saturation,
Low Magnetostriction, Lowest
Loss of Powder Materials

HI-FLUX DC-100 kHz -55 to 200 Toroids up to 132 mm Very High High Very Stable, Higher Saturation
than MPP or Super-MSS

SUPER-MSS DC-300 kHz -55 to 200 Toroids up to 132 mm High Medium Very Stable, High Saturation,
Low Magnetostriction, Low Loss

Powdered Iron
High Perm 1 kHz–100 kHz -55 to 175 Toroids up to 132 mm High Low High Saturation, Low Cost
(Core Loss)

Medium Perm 50 kHz–2 MHz -55 to 155 Unlimited to 350 cm3 High Low Low Loss, Good Stability
(Low Perm)

Low Perm 1 MHz–500 MHz -55 to 155 Unlimited to 350 cm3 High Medium Low Loss, Good Stability
(Low Perm)

Tape Cores
Ni-Fe NR NR NR NR NR (High Perm)

Si-Fe NR NR NR NR NR (High Perm)

Co-Fe NR NR NR NR NR (High Perm)

Amorphous NR NR NR NR NR (High Perm)

Cut Cores
Si-Fe 50 Hz–100 kHz -55 to 175 Toroids, E’s & U’s Very High Medium Good Perm, High Saturation Flux
Unlimited Size (Core Loss, Requires Air Gap)

Ni-Fe 50 Hz–250 kHz -55 to 175 Toroids, E’s & U’s High High High Perm, High Saturation Flux
Unlimited Size (High Cost, Requires Air Gap)

Co-Fe 50 Hz–1 kHz -55 to 175 Toroids, E’s & U’s Very High Very High Highest Saturation Flux
Unlimited Size (Highest Cost, Requires Air Gap)

Bobbin Core
Ni-Fe NR NR NR NR NR (High Perm)

Dist. Gap
Si-Fe NR NR NR NR NR (High Perm)
Scrapless Lams and Shearings
Si-Fe, Co-Fe, 50–60 Hz -55 to 200 Single Phase, Three Very High Low High Perm, Unlimited Size (Low
and Ni-Fe Phase, Unlimited Size Frequency Only, Requires Air Gap)

SMAG rev.2015a Page: 30 © Arnold Magnetic Technologies

 770 Linden Avenue • Rochester • NY 14625 USA
800-593-9127 • (+1) 585-385-9010 • Fax: (+1) 585-385-9017
E-mail: [email protected]
www.arnoldmagnetics.com

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SMAG rev.2015a Page: 31 © Arnold Magnetic Technologies