High frequency bus converter with low loss integrated matrix transformer

The trend in isolated DC/DC converters is increasing output power demands and higher operating frequencies. Improved topologies and semiconductors can allow for lower loss at higher frequencies. A major barrier to further improvement is the transformer design. With high current levels and high frequency effects the transformers can become the major loss component in the circuit. High values of transformer leakage inductance can also greatly degrade the performance of the converter. Matrix transformers offer the ability to reduce winding loss and leakage inductance. This paper will study the impact of increased switching frequencies on transformer size and explore the use of matrix transformers in high current high frequency isolated applications. This paper will also propose an improved integrated matrix transformer design that can decrease core loss and further improve the performance of matrix transformers.