At conference in Nürnberg, Germany, Franci Zajc of Fraza—a consortium partner in the DEEP PPU project the prestigious PCIM 2025—presented groundbreaking advancements in magnetic component design for power electronics. His presentation, titled “Extremely High Q-factor Inductor for Loss Reduction in Power Converters for MHz Range,” introduced a novel approach that significantly enhances the efficiency of power converters operating in the megahertz frequency range.
The core innovation lies in achieving an exceptionally high-quality factor (Q-factor) exceeding 500 at 1 MHz. This level of performance allows for discontinuous mode operation and enables zero-voltage switching conditions in the converter, which are crucial for minimizing switching losses in high-frequency applications.
Zajc highlighted that inductors built on this design concept not only exhibit minimal magnetic losses but also contribute to a marked reduction in losses across the entire power stage—including power semiconductor devices. This dual benefit positions the solution as a key enabler for next-generation high-efficiency, compact power conversion systems.
One of the most striking demonstrations was an ultra-light inductor engineered for extreme operating conditions: a 75 App ripple current and a 1.5 MHz switching frequency. Despite these demands, the inductor weighs less than 40 grams and achieves a gravimetric power density of 100 kW/kg, all while delivering a conversion efficiency exceeding 99%.
These results underscore the transformative potential of Fraza’s high-Q inductor technology in driving efficiency and power density improvements in advanced power electronics—paving the way for more compact, efficient, and sustainable solutions in a wide range of applications.