IEC 62024-2:2024

Overview

IEC 62024-2:2024 - "High frequency inductive components: Part 2 - Rated current of inductors for DC‑to‑DC converters" defines standardized measuring methods for inductor rated DC limits. The standard enables repeatable, comparable ratings across manufacturers for small leaded and surface‑mount inductors (dimensions per IEC 62025‑1), typically used on PCBs in DC‑to‑DC converters, telecom and electronic equipment. Measurements are limited to effects induced solely by DC current - saturation and temperature rise - and generally cover rated currents up to 125 A and footprints up to 625 mm².

Key topics and requirements

• Scope and applicability
  • Applicable to leaded and surface‑mount inductors with IEC 62025‑1 dimensions; customary use in PCB‑mounted DC‑to‑DC converters.
  • Expanded range: previous 22 A → now up to 125 A; footprint increased from 12 mm × 12 mm to 625 mm².
• Measuring principles
  • Direct saturation limited current (DC): measured by applying a DC offset superimposed on a small AC signal to determine inductance drop.
  • Temperature rise limited current: determined using thermal limits produced by DC self‑heating.
• Approved measurement methods
  • Resistance substitution method
  • Thermocouple method
  • Thermal camera method (new in this edition)
  • Printed‑wiring board (PWBs) and lead‑wire fixturing for realistic mounting conditions
• Test conditions and environment
  • Standard atmospheric testing ranges and reference conditions are specified (see IEC 60068‑1).
• Documentation and product data
  • Requirements for information to be supplied in detail specifications and catalogues to allow accurate comparisons.
• Additional updates
  • Added wire‑size and crimp terminal references (Table 2), upper current limits for Iclass B/C/D boards, and revised application examples.

Applications and who uses it

• Component manufacturers: to publish comparable rated current values in datasheets and ensure consistency across product lines.
• Test laboratories and QA teams: to perform accepted, repeatable saturation and temperature measurements.
• Power electronics and PCB designers: to select inductors for DC‑to‑DC converters and switching power supplies with verified thermal and saturation limits.
• Procurement and compliance engineers: to validate vendor claims and ensure interoperability in electronic and telecommunication systems.

Related standards

• IEC 62025‑1 - fixed, surface‑mounted inductors: dimensional and non‑electrical characteristics.
• IEC 60068‑1 - environmental testing: general and guidance (used for standard atmospheric conditions).

Keywords: IEC 62024‑2:2024, rated current, inductors, DC‑to‑DC converters, measuring methods, saturation, temperature rise, thermal camera, surface mount inductors, PCB.