A Computational Method of Temperature Distribution for Enhancing Planar Transformer Behaviour

Abstract—In planar transformers, conventional wires are replaced by PCB-windings and/or laminated copper. This technology outperforms the traditional one in terms of cost, dimensions and, if well used, performance. Because of the compactness of planar transformers, high efficiency can be achieved only through "ad-hoc" design techniques which take into account thermal effects. In fact, because of the low distances among coils and the magnetic core as well as the high current densities, high temperatures may arise. This paper proposes an accu- rate and efficient procedure allowing the computation of temperature distribution in planar transformers. After a detailed description of the method, the manuscript reports, compares and analizes calculated and measured results demonstrating the effectiveness of the proposed numerical method.