Modelling of lossy coils using fractional derivatives

Coils exposed to eddy current and hysteresis losses are conventionally described by an inductance with equivalent core-loss resistance connected in parallel. The value of the equivalent core-loss resistance depends on the working frequency and the external wiring. Thus the model is less than satisfactory. The authors propose to describe loss inductance using fractional derivatives containing both a loss term and a storage term. After introducing the theory of fractional derivatives, the operating mode of the fractional coil model is explained by the example of an RLC oscillating circuit. Subsequent measurements of a series resonant circuit with a lossy coil impressively confirm the theoretical model with regard to both the frequency and time domains.