BH Loop Analyser with High-Speed Power Amplifier

Description

The Compound Semiconductor Applications Catapult features state-of-the-art facilities for the modelling, characterisation, integration and validation of applications, modules and systems using wide bandgap semiconductors in power electronics, photonics, advanced packaging and RF. Magnetic devices such as inductors and transformers are essential for the operation of most converter topologies in power electronics; however, they are usually the main contributor to the overall converter's weight and volume, limiting the achievable power density, and preventing the full exploitation of the capabilities of the new compound semiconductors. To relieve this problem, a proper modelling of the loss characteristics and thermal limits of the existing and new magnetic materials is required to help with the selection of the best material for any application, the right core dimensions, and with the design & optimisation of magnetic components. The Compound Semiconductor Applications Catapult is investing in a proven core-loss measuring instrument and its ancillary equipment to help with the modelling and characterisation of magnetic materials and cores at high frequencies, and under different operating conditions. We require an advanced, high-bandwidth BH loop analyser with its corresponding high bandwidth power amplifier, automatic control software, and AC blocker for using it at the Power Electronics laboratory at the Innovation Centre located in Newport, Wales. This equipment will enhance our modelling and validation capabilities in existing and new magnetic materials for our current and future CR&D projects, and it will allow the automatic measurement of the saturation flux density, relative amplitude permeability, core losses and other important magnetic properties. The manufacturer/authorised vendor shall install the system at the Innovation Centre, CSA Catapult, by March 2021.