Advanced Soft Magnetic Materials for the Development of High-Frequency Magnetic Core Used in Solid-State Transformers

Abstract

Solid-state transformers (SSTs) are becoming an indispensable component of power systems due to their multifunctionality, flexibility, and controllability over conventional transformers. With the development of advanced magnetic materials, semiconductor devices, and control circuits high-frequency magnetic core (HFMC) can play a significant role in the solid-state transformer. To ensure high efficiency, power density, and reliability, the HFMC must be carefully chosen, designed, modelled, and used. However, due to its complex physical geometry, use of non-sinusoidal excitation, and nonlinear features, achieving optimal performance has always been regarded as a challenging task. This article aims to review the state-of-the-art of HFMC considering the recent development of advanced soft magnetic materials and switching devices and core geometry and windings requirements in medium-voltage solid-state transformer applications. Finally, this article outlines the key challenges and suggests the future improvement of HFMC and HFMC-based SSTs.