Smaller. Cheaper. Better.—Iron nitride transformers developed at Sandia could boost energy storage

[OKIsItJustMe]

https://share.sandia.gov/news/resources/news_releases/iron_nitride_transformers/

[font face=Serif]March 25, 2016
[font size=5]Smaller. Cheaper. Better.[/font]

[font size=4]Iron nitride transformers developed at Sandia could boost energy storage options[/font]

[font size=3]ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — A Sandia-led team has developed a way to make a magnetic material that could lead to lighter and smaller, cheaper and better-performing high-frequency transformers, needed for more flexible energy storage systems and widespread adoption of renewable energy.

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Due to its magnetic properties, iron nitride transformers can be made much more compact and lighter than traditional transformers, with better power-handling capability and greater efficiency. They will require only air cooling, another important space saver. Iron nitride also could serve as a more robust, high-performance transformer core material across the nation’s electrical grid.

So far, Monson and his colleagues have demonstrated the fabrication of iron nitride transformer cores with good physical and magnetic characteristics and now are refining their process and preparing to test the transformers in power-conversion test beds.

“Advanced magnetic materials are critical for next-generation power conversion systems that use high-frequency linked converters, and can complement Sandia efforts in ultra-wide bandgap device materials for improved power electronics systems. They can withstand higher frequencies and higher temperatures, which ultimately result in high power density designs,” said Atcitty.

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[Eleanors38]

1. The beginning of life beyond Lithium Ion?

I woud like to see a planned prototype's cooling system. One advanced Lion battery design greatly expanded its microscopic heat exchange system by "pin cushioning" battery "plates" to increase surface area. I wonder what this new system will employ.