Polymer-Bonded Magnetic Materials for High Power Transformers

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional magnetic materials face limitations in high power conversion applications due to brittleness, high loss, high cost, and complexity in formation, making them unsuitable for high power and high frequency operations, and they are not easily adaptable for power transformers and inductors.

Innovation Solution

A magnetic composition comprising a thermoplastic polymer and magnetic powders, specifically Fe2O3, NiO, and ZnO, mixed and sintered to form magnetic cores with improved mechanical properties and permeability, allowing for easier formation and lower costs, suitable for high power and high frequency applications.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of energy

If conventional magnetic materials (Ferrites, MPP) are used, then low loss characteristics and high frequency operation are achieved, but brittleness and limited size occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecore lossVSAvoidmechanical strength
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses composite materials by combining magnetic powders (Fe2O3, NiO, ZnO) with thermoplastic polymer matrices to create a new material system that exhibits both low core loss and high mechanical strength. The composite structure allows the magnetic particles to provide magnetic properties while the polymer matrix provides mechanical support and flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Solution Approach 2:

The patent optimizes the composition ratios of magnetic powders and polymers, as well as processing parameters such as sintering temperature and time, to achieve the desired balance between magnetic performance and mechanical properties. By changing these parameters, the material can be tuned for specific applications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Loss of energy

If conventional magnetic materials are used, then low loss characteristics are achieved, but complexity and expense in formation occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecore lossVSAvoidformation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs traditional polymer processing methods such as injection molding and extrusion to form magnetic cores, which are simpler and more cost-effective than conventional sintering processes. By changing the manufacturing approach from ceramic sintering to thermoplastic processing, the formation complexity is significantly reduced.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Loss of energy

If polymer is introduced into conventional core, then eddy loss is lowered, but manufacturing optimization and permeability study are needed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveeddy lossVSAvoidmanufacturing optimization
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a composite material system where polymer matrices are combined with magnetic powders to reduce eddy current losses. The non-conductive polymer matrix interrupts eddy current paths while the magnetic particles maintain the necessary magnetic properties for power conversion applications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The magnetic composition exhibits enhanced tensile strength, resistance to compression, and improved permeability, making it suitable for high power transformers and inductors, while reducing costs and complexity in manufacturing.

Implementation Method 1

A magnetic composition for power conversion may include a thermoplastic polymer and magnetic powders

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetism: Magnetism

Implementation Method 2

These materials are composed of polymer matrices and magnetic powders

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPolymer bonding: Composite Materials

Data Source

PatentUS8277678B2Polymer-bonded magnetic materials
Publication Date: 2012.10.02 THE HONG KONG POLYTECHNIC UNIV
  • US8277678B2 patent drawing
  • US8277678B2 patent drawing
  • US8277678B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A magnetic composition for power conversion includes a thermoplastic polymer and magnetic powders. The composition has a tensile strength of greater than 20 N/mm2.