TDK expands metal core power inductors with LED versions
Metal core power inductors from TDK now include the SPM-VT series that is designed especially for the high thermal and current demands of automotive LED headlights. The wire-wound power inductors feature both a broad operating temperature range from -55 to +155 degrees C and high rated currents from 4.7 to 36.6A (Isat), depending on type.
The SPM-VT components are qualified to AEC-Q200 and are initially available in three sizes: 7.5 x 7.0 x 5.4mm, 10.5 x 10.0 x 6.5mm and 13.0 x 12.5 x 6.5mm. Rated inductances range from one to 47 microH, depending on type.
Mass production starts in September 2019.
The SPM-VT series is based on TDK’s metallic magnetic material technology that enables a high magnetic saturation density and robust structural design. According to TDK, the metal core power inductors have “superior DC superposition characteristics in a compact size” and feature a rated current that is approximately two to three times higher than that of comparable high-temperature products based on ferrite core materials.
Modern adaptive LED headlights typically use the same control circuit to drive all LED headlight functions, such as low and high beams, daytime running lights and curve lighting. The DC/DC converters in the power circuits of LED headlights use power inductors. The SPM-VT series meets the automotive industry’s demand for compact, high-performance power inductors that can support high currents and withstand high temperatures. They can be used in automotive LED headlights and power circuits for automotive ECUs.
TDK has confirmed it will continue to expand the SPM power inductor line up to include more miniaturised inductors with dimensions of 7.0 x 6.5 x 4.5mm and 5.3 x 5.1 x 3.0mm.
TDK was established in 1935 to commercialise ferrite, a key material in electronic and magnetic products. TDK’s comprehensive portfolio features passive components such as ceramic, aluminium electrolytic and film capacitors, as well as magnetics, high-frequency, and piezo and protection devices. The product spectrum also includes sensors and sensor systems such as temperature and pressure, magnetic, and MEMS sensors, power supplies and energy devices and magnetic heads.
The company’s products are marketed under the product brands TDK, EPCOS, InvenSense, Micronas, Tronics and TDK-Lambda.
