Silicon steel (electrical steel)

• Characteristics: Silicon steel is the most traditional core material. By adding silicon (typically 3% to 5%), the resistivity is increased to reduce eddy current losses while maintaining high magnetic permeability. Cold-rolled silicon steel sheets have grain orientation, which can further optimize the magnetic flux path.

• Advantages: Low cost, high mechanical strength, and mature manufacturing process, suitable for power frequency (50/60Hz) applications.

• Disadvantages: Iron losses significantly increase at high frequencies (hysteresis loss + eddy current loss), and efficiency is lower than that of new materials.

• Applications:

• Power transformers (distribution and transmission systems);

• Industrial transformers (medium and low-frequency equipment).

2. Amorphous Alloy (Amorphous Steel)

• Characteristics: Metal glass structure with disordered atomic arrangement (such as iron-boron-silicon alloy), isotropic magnetism, significantly reducing eddy current and hysteresis losses. Iron loss is 70% to 80% lower than that of silicon steel.

• Advantages: Ultra-high efficiency (extremely low no-load loss), environmentally friendly and energy-saving.

• Disadvantages: High mechanical brittleness, difficult processing, relatively low saturation magnetic flux density (about 1.5T), and cost is 1.5 to 2 times that of silicon steel.

• Applications:

• High-efficiency distribution transformers (especially in energy-saving scenarios);

• Renewable energy systems (photovoltaic inverters, wind power transformers).

 

3. Ferrite

•Characteristics: Ceramic material (MnZn/NiZn-based), high resistivity (>10^6 Ω·m), naturally suppresses eddy currents, but magnetic permeability varies significantly with temperature.

•Advantages: Excellent high-frequency performance (1kHz - 1MHz), small size, moderate cost.

•Disadvantages: Low saturation flux density (<0.5T), brittle, not suitable for high-power low-frequency applications.

• Applications:

• Switching power supplies (SMPS), RF transformers;

• Consumer electronics (chargers, TVs, communication devices).

4.Nanocrystalline Materials

• Characteristics: Nanoscale crystalline structure (iron-based alloys), combining high saturation flux density (over 1.2T) with low high-frequency losses and good temperature stability.

• Advantages: Comprehensive performance surpasses ferrite, high-frequency losses comparable to amorphous alloys.

• Disadvantages: High cost, complex mass-production processes.

• Applications:

• High-end high-frequency transformers (medical equipment, aerospace);

• Electric vehicle charging modules.

 

Other Materials

• Iron Powder Cores: Used in mid-frequency inductors, strong anti-saturation capability but higher losses.

• Permalloy (Nickel-Iron Based): Extremely high initial permeability, used in precision instruments, but with exceptionally high cost.

Oriented silicon steel, also known as electrical or CRGO (Cold-Rolled Grain-Oriented) silicon steel, is a vital material used in the manufacturing of transformer cores. Its unique magnetic properties and grain orientation make it an excellent for efficient power transmission. In this article, we will explore the various grades of oriented silicon steel and their applications in the transformer industry, including the addition of the M4 grade. We are proud to inform you that SHUNGE possesses a wide range of oriented silicon steel grades; please contact us for any specific requirements.

1. M0 Grade:

M0 grade oriented silicon steel is highly regarded for its exceptional magnetic characteristics. With its low core losses and high magnetic permeability, it is ideal for use in high-efficiency power transformers. The superior energy efficiency and improved voltage regulation provided by M0 grade contribute to enhanced performance in diverse applications, ranging from industrial power distribution to renewable energy systems.

2. M1 Grade:

M1 grade oriented silicon steel exhibits excellent magnetic properties and finds common usage in medium to high-power transformers. It offers slightly higher core losses compared to the M0 grade but remains a highly reliable and efficient option. Transformers utilizing M1 grade silicon steel serve various electrical systems, including utility substations, commercial buildings, and manufacturing facilities.

3. M2 Grade:

M2 grade oriented silicon steel is specifically designed for applications requiring lower magnetic flux density. Although it has higher core losses compared to M0 and M1 grades, it remains suitable for transformers where efficiency is not the primary concern. M2 grade silicon steel is commonly used in low-power transformers, such as those found in household appliances and lighting systems.

4. M4 Grade:

The M4 grade oriented silicon steel is a specialized grade that offers distinct magnetic properties and is suitable for specific transformer applications. While providing unique benefits, such as lower core losses at higher frequencies, it caters to transformers operating in demanding environments. M4 grade silicon steel is widely used in power electronics, renewable energy systems, and high-frequency transformers.

Oriented silicon steel, with its grain orientation and superior magnetic properties, plays a crucial role in ensuring the efficiency and reliability of transformer cores. By understanding the different grades available, manufacturers can select the most suitable material for their specific power transmission needs. Whether it is the widely used M0 and M1 grades, the specialized M2 grade, or the advanced M4 grade, each offers unique benefits and applications, contributing to the seamless functioning of electrical systems worldwide. At ShunGe, we are proud to offer a wide range of oriented silicon steel grades, including nearly all available grades. Please feel free to contact us for any specific requirements or inquiries.