Hello everyone, Pablo here!

🙋‍♂️ I’m back this week with a brand-new topic for our Newsletter!

🏎️ After an intense weekend of F1 Racing in Baku, I’ve decided to dedicate this Newsletter to the world of Power Electronics in Formula 1, exploring in particular the role of High-frequency Magnetics. In today's fast-paced world of racing, advanced technology and innovative design are fundamental in gaining a competitive edge, and Power Electronics definitely play a crucial role in the performance of F1 cars.

🏁 High-frequency Magnetics & F1

Power Electronics is a rapidly evolving field that deals with the conversion, control, and management of electrical power. High-frequency Magnetics are a key component, used to control and convert electrical energy at high frequencies, typically between 10 kHz and several hundred kHz. In the high-speed world of F1 racing, Magnetics are used in a variety of applications, including energy storage, electric motors, and power conversion systems.

⚡ One of the primary usages of HF Magnetics in F1 racing is in the energy storage systems. F1 cars are equipped with Energy Recovery Systems (ERS) that capture and store the energy generated during braking and use it to boost acceleration with the MGU-K. These systems rely on Magnetics in their power conversion and storage systems to efficiently convert and store energy. You can see all these components in Figure 1.

Figure 1. Power unit parts

🔋 The most common type of energy storage system in F1 racing is the battery, which stores electrical energy in a chemical form. Magnetics are used in the battery management systems to regulate the charging and discharging of the battery, ensuring optimal performance and safety.

Another application of High-frequency Magnetics in F1 is in the electric motors. F1 cars use electric motors in their hybrid powertrains, which work in tandem with the internal combustion engine to improve performance and efficiency. Magnetics are used in the motor control systems to convert the electrical energy from the battery into the appropriate voltage and frequency for the motor.

💡 In addition to their use in energy storage, electric motors, and power conversion systems, HF Magnetics are also employed in other applications in the F1 world, including lighting systems and sensors. For example, Magnetics are used in the lighting systems to regulate the voltage and current to the LED lights, ensuring optimal performance and safety. They are also used in the sensors to measure and control the various parameters of the car, such as temperature, pressure, and speed.

The benefits of custom HF Magnetics in F1 racing are many. They offer higher power density and efficiency, allowing for more compact and lightweight designs. They also provide precise control over the electrical energy, enabling more efficient use of energy and improved performance. In a sport where every hundredth of a second counts, the use of HF Magnetics can make the difference between victory and defeat.

🔎 Types of High-Frequency magnetics used in F1

Let’s focus now on the Magnetic components that constitutes the electrical powertrain of an F1, as it is the energy storage system and the MGU-K.

Figure 2. Electric Components of F1 Powertrain

The magnetic components that take part in the power conversion in F1 include:

✅ Inductors and Chokes, used to filter out high-frequency noise and harmonics in the Power Electronics systems, and to store and release energy as needed.

✅ High-frequency Transformers: employed to step up or step down the voltage and current levels in the power electronics systems that control the electric powertrain components. High-frequency Transformers are used to minimize energy losses due to electromagnetic interference (EMI) and other factors.

High frequency Transformers and Chokes are key components in the Power Electronics systems of Formula 1 cars. They are used to regulate the voltage and current levels, as well as to filter out high frequency noise and harmonics.

⚙️ Design Considerations

In high-frequency applications, transformers and chokes must be designed with low losses and high efficiency in order to minimize energy losses and maintain optimal performance. This is especially important in Formula 1, where every bit of energy counts and the slightest increase in efficiency can make a significant difference in lap times.

☝️ One important consideration in the design of High-frequency Transformers and Chokes is the choice of magnetic core material. Soft magnetic materials, such as iron, are commonly used as they have high magnetic permeability, which means they can be magnetized easily and retain their magnetization. Ferrite materials are also used in some applications, as they have high resistance to electromagnetic interference (EMI) and can handle high frequencies well.

➿ Another important design consideration is the winding technique used to create the magnetic fields. In high-frequency applications, the windings must be tightly coupled and have low capacitance to minimize losses and maintain high efficiency. Different winding configurations, such as bifilar or trifilar, can be used depending on the specific requirements of the application.

Overall, High-frequency Transformers and Chokes play a critical role in the performance and efficiency of the Power Electronics systems in Formula 1 cars. With the constant push for faster lap times and improved efficiency, these components will continue to be an important focus of innovation and development in this sport.

🚥 To Sum Up

Power Electronics and High-frequency Magnetics are crucial for F1 car performance:

• Contributing to a faster, more efficient, and precise control over the car.
• Providing a better energy storage, control over electric motors, and power conversion systems.
• Advancements in technology are expected to drive continued innovation and growth.
• The competitiveness and excitement of F1 racing are expected to be further enhanced by these advancements.

🚀 That’s all for today. Thank you for reading, and I hope you found this Newsletter interesting!

😎 Stay tuned for more updates on Power Electronics and High-frequency Magnetics in F1 racing and other exciting applications.

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You can now boost your expertise in High Frequency Magnetics with unique modules and lectures exploring Magnetics design. Next session is starting on May 23rd 2023.

🚀 Check out all the information and pre-book your seat here.

Pablo Blázquez 

Power Εlectronics Εngineer