How to calculate the inductance of a center tapped solenoid ?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the inductance of a center-tapped solenoid, particularly in the context of driving a transformer with a ZVS power supply. Participants explore the implications of the center tap on inductance calculations and the design considerations for the primary winding of a flyback transformer.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant mentions the need for the A_l (A-sub-l) value for the core to compute the inductance based on the number of turns.
  • Another participant questions the meaning of A_I value, suggesting it may relate to core permeability and indicating that it is typically provided in core datasheets.
  • A participant raises a concern about considerations specific to center-tapped inductors, noting the presence of three terminals as opposed to two in standard inductors.
  • There is a clarification that only one of the two primary coils is energized at any given time, implying a specific operational mode for the center-tapped configuration.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying levels of understanding regarding the parameters needed for inductance calculations and the implications of the center tap, indicating that multiple competing views remain on how to approach the problem.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference specific parameters like A_l and A_I, but there is no consensus on their definitions or how they apply to the center-tapped design. The discussion does not resolve the implications of having three terminals versus two in inductance calculations.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for individuals involved in transformer design, particularly those working with ZVS power supplies and center-tapped inductors.

Indula
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I'm trying to drive a transformer using a ZVS power supply. The primary coil that we use here has to be wound center tapped. The output frequency depends on the inductance of the primary winding and capacitance used in the circuit.
The circuit of a ZVS power supply is as follows,
FSW2MICGNBEVVKF.LARGE.jpg


The transformer where the primary will be wound is as follows. It's a flyback transformer where the secondary is present and primary can be wound as we need.
s-l500.jpg
 
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Do you have the A_l (A-sub-l) value for that core?
 
What's A_I value means ? Is it the core permeability value ?
 
Indula said:
What's A_I value means ? Is it the core permeability value ?
It is usually given for cores so that you can compute the inductance based on the number of turns. Look at the datasheet for your core, for example.

This is a pretty good introduction to inductor design, and it includes a discussion of A_L:

https://www.ieee.li/pdf/viewgraphs/fundamentals_magnetics_design.pdf

1575567842004.png
 
Okay. Is there any thing that I need to take into account since it's a center tapped inductor ? Unlike 2 terminal inductors this one has 3 terminals due to center tap.
 
But only one of the two primary coils is energized at any given time, right?
 
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