Reason why inductive energy storage suppresses current

Why should you use an inductor for energy storage?

Because the current flowing through the inductor cannot change instantaneously, using an inductor for energy storage provides a steady output current from the power supply. In addition, the inductor acts as a current-ripple filter. Let’s consider a quick example of how an inductor stores energy in an SMPS.

How does an inductor store energy?

Inductors Store Energy The magnetic field that surrounds an inductor stores energy as current flows through the field. If we slowly decrease the amount of current, the magnetic field begins to collapse and releases the energy and the inductor becomes a current source.

What is the rate of energy storage in a Magnetic Inductor?

Thus, the power delivered to the inductor p = v *i is also zero, which means that the rate of energy storage is zero as well. Therefore, the energy is only stored inside the inductor before its current reaches its maximum steady-state value, Im. After the current becomes constant, the energy within the magnetic becomes constant as well.

How does an inductor store energy in an SMPS?

Let’s consider a quick example of how an inductor stores energy in an SMPS. Closing the switch for a switched mode power supply increases the current flowing to the load and allows energy to store in the inductor. Opening the switch disconnects the output of the supply from the input.

How does Linear Technology affect inductor energy storage?

While one inductor’s current is increasing, the other’s is decreasing. There is also a significant reduction in the required inductor energy storage (approximately 75%). The inductor’s volume, and therefore cost, are reduced as well. See Linear Technology’s Application Note 77 for complete details.

How do inductor ripples affect energy consumption?

The output ripple is reduced in a similar fashion. While one inductor’s current is increasing, the other’s is decreasing. There is also a significant reduction in the required inductor energy storage (approximately 75%). The inductor’s volume, and therefore cost, are reduced as well.