Würth Elektronik has expanded its WE-MCRI series with the new 1090HL (High Leakage) coupled inductor, designed specifically for SEPIC, ZETA, and Ćuk DC-DC converter applications. Instead of minimizing leakage inductance like conventional coupled inductors, this new component is engineered to make controlled use of it, helping improve electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) while supporting more compact power supply designs.
Leakage inductance is typically considered an unwanted characteristic because it can reduce efficiency and complicate circuit performance. However, the WE-MCRI 1090HL intentionally incorporates a defined amount of leakage inductance into its magnetic design. This approach enhances ripple current filtering, lowers conducted EMI, and can reduce the need for additional EMC filtering components, simplifying converter designs.
With compact dimensions of 11 × 10 × 9 mm, the molded inductor is well suited for space-limited power electronics. Its coupled magnetic design replaces two separate inductors, allowing designers to achieve effective ripple current reduction with lower inductance values. This helps reduce component count, save PCB space, and use a smaller AC coupling capacitor, lowering overall system size and cost without sacrificing efficiency.
The molded construction ensures stable electrical performance across a wide temperature range and offers soft magnetic saturation characteristics, improving reliability under changing load conditions. These qualities make the component a strong choice for compact, high-performance power conversion systems.
To aid engineers during the design process, Würth Elektronik provides detailed specifications for both the coupling factor and leakage inductance—key parameters that are often missing from conventional inductor datasheets. This enables more accurate circuit simulation and performance optimization.
In addition, the company offers engineering support for converter development and EMC optimization. The WE-MCRI 1090HL is available from stock with no minimum order quantity, and evaluation samples can be requested for testing in both new and existing SEPIC, ZETA, and Ćuk converter designs.
