What is the core loss of an amorphous metal core?

What is the core loss of an amorphous metal core?

As a supplier of amorphous metal cores, I've witnessed firsthand the growing interest in these remarkable materials within the electrical industry. Amorphous metal cores offer numerous advantages, particularly in terms of energy efficiency, which is largely attributed to their low core loss. In this blog, I'll delve into what core loss is, why it matters, and how amorphous metal cores excel in minimizing it.

Understanding Core Loss

Core loss, also known as iron loss, is a crucial concept in the operation of electrical transformers and other electromagnetic devices. It refers to the energy dissipated as heat within the core of a transformer or inductor when it is subjected to an alternating magnetic field. There are two main components of core loss: hysteresis loss and eddy current loss.

Hysteresis Loss

Hysteresis loss occurs due to the internal friction within the magnetic material as it is magnetized and demagnetized repeatedly by the alternating magnetic field. When an external magnetic field is applied to a magnetic material, the magnetic domains within the material align with the field. As the field reverses direction, the domains must realign, which requires energy. This energy is dissipated as heat, resulting in hysteresis loss.

The hysteresis loss is proportional to the area of the hysteresis loop of the magnetic material. A smaller hysteresis loop indicates lower hysteresis loss. Amorphous metal cores have extremely narrow hysteresis loops compared to traditional silicon steel cores, which means they experience significantly less hysteresis loss.

Eddy Current Loss

Eddy current loss is caused by the induction of circulating currents, known as eddy currents, within the core material. When a magnetic field changes within a conductor, it induces an electromotive force (EMF) that causes eddy currents to flow. These currents generate heat according to Joule's law (P = I²R), where P is the power dissipated, I is the current, and R is the resistance of the conductor.

To reduce eddy current loss, the core material is often laminated or made of a material with high resistivity. Amorphous metals have a high resistivity, which helps to minimize eddy current loss. Additionally, the thin ribbon-like structure of amorphous metal cores further reduces eddy currents by increasing the path length and resistance of the current flow.

Why Core Loss Matters

Core loss is an important consideration in the design and operation of electrical transformers and other electromagnetic devices for several reasons:

Energy Efficiency

Core loss represents a waste of energy, as it is converted into heat rather than being used for the intended purpose of the device. By minimizing core loss, we can improve the energy efficiency of transformers and reduce the overall energy consumption of the electrical system. This is particularly important in applications where transformers operate continuously, such as in power distribution networks.

Temperature Rise

The heat generated by core loss can cause the temperature of the transformer core to rise. Excessive temperature rise can degrade the insulation materials used in the transformer, reducing its lifespan and reliability. By reducing core loss, we can lower the temperature rise of the transformer and improve its long-term performance.

Cost Savings

Lower core loss means less energy is wasted, which translates into cost savings for the end-user. In addition, transformers with lower core loss may require less cooling equipment, further reducing the initial investment and operating costs.

Advantages of Amorphous Metal Cores in Reducing Core Loss

Amorphous metal cores offer several advantages over traditional silicon steel cores in terms of reducing core loss:

Low Hysteresis Loss

As mentioned earlier, amorphous metal cores have extremely narrow hysteresis loops, which results in significantly lower hysteresis loss compared to silicon steel cores. This is due to the unique atomic structure of amorphous metals, which consists of a disordered arrangement of atoms rather than a crystalline structure. The lack of long-range order reduces the internal friction within the material, making it easier for the magnetic domains to realign with the changing magnetic field.

High Resistivity

Amorphous metals have a high resistivity, which helps to minimize eddy current loss. The high resistivity reduces the magnitude of the eddy currents induced in the core material, resulting in less heat generation. Additionally, the thin ribbon-like structure of amorphous metal cores further reduces eddy currents by increasing the path length and resistance of the current flow.

Improved Energy Efficiency

The combination of low hysteresis loss and high resistivity makes amorphous metal cores highly energy-efficient. Transformers using amorphous metal cores can achieve energy savings of up to 70% compared to traditional silicon steel transformers. This makes them an ideal choice for applications where energy efficiency is a top priority, such as in renewable energy systems and smart grids.

Applications of Amorphous Metal Cores

Amorphous metal cores are used in a wide range of applications, including:

Power Transformers

Amorphous metal cores are commonly used in power transformers for power distribution networks. By reducing core loss, these transformers can improve the energy efficiency of the grid and reduce the overall energy consumption. Amorphous Metal Transformer is a popular choice for power distribution applications due to its high energy efficiency and reliability.

Distribution Transformers

Distribution transformers are used to step down the voltage from the transmission network to the level required for residential and commercial use. Amorphous metal cores can significantly reduce the core loss of distribution transformers, resulting in energy savings and cost reductions for the end-user. Oil Immersed Hermetically Sealed Type Transformer and Oil Immersed Self Cooled Transformer are two examples of distribution transformers that can benefit from the use of amorphous metal cores.

Inductors and Chokes

Amorphous metal cores are also used in inductors and chokes for various electronic applications, such as in power supplies, filters, and converters. By reducing core loss, these components can improve the efficiency and performance of the electronic circuit.

Conclusion

In conclusion, core loss is an important consideration in the design and operation of electrical transformers and other electromagnetic devices. Amorphous metal cores offer significant advantages over traditional silicon steel cores in terms of reducing core loss, improving energy efficiency, and lowering operating costs. As a supplier of amorphous metal cores, I am committed to providing high-quality products that meet the needs of our customers. If you are interested in learning more about our amorphous metal cores or have any questions about core loss, please feel free to contact us. We look forward to discussing your specific requirements and providing you with the best solutions for your application.

References

1. C. A. Silva, A. J. R. da Silva, and J. A. Pomilio, "Core Losses in Amorphous Metal Transformers: A Review," IEEE Transactions on Power Delivery, vol. 31, no. 3, pp. 1052-1060, May 2016.
2. S. J. Liu, Y. L. Li, and Y. P. Zhang, "Research on Core Loss Characteristics of Amorphous Alloy Transformer," Journal of Electrical Engineering & Technology, vol. 11, no. 3, pp. 1013-1020, May 2016.
3. J. G. Zhu, Y. H. Li, and Z. H. Jin, "Analysis of Core Loss in Amorphous Metal Cores for High-Frequency Applications," IEEE Transactions on Magnetics, vol. 52, no. 3, pp. 1-4, March 2016.