Würth Elektronik has introduced its new WE-PMFI moulded flat-wire inductors. Measuring 2.0 by 1.6 by 1.0 mm in its smallest package, it offers exceptionally low resistance (RDC from 4.8 mΩ), an operating voltage of up to 48 V, plus an extended temperature range from -55 to 150°C. Applications include DC/DC converter assemblies in compact applications requiring high output currents and switching frequencies exceeding one megahertz.
Flat-wire technology offers a host of advantages for inductors: they are mechanically more robust and optimized for heat dissipation. The wire shape utilizes the winding area more efficiently, allowing for higher inductance values in the same package size compared to round wire. Flat-wire windings also offer a larger cross-sectional area, thus reducing resistance and I2R losses. Eddy current losses, especially in high-frequency applications, are also lower in a flat-wire inductor compared to the round-wire version.
