SMPS (Switched-Mode Power Supplies) are efficient, but they generate heat—especially under load. Without proper thermal management, your SMPS can overheat, throttle, or fail entirely. Let’s explore how to manage heat in your projects using simple techniques.

⚠️ The Problem: Overheating Components in SMPS

Key heat-generating parts like MOSFETs, transformers, and rectifiers can get too hot during continuous operation. This leads to:

• Component failure

• Efficiency drops

• Premature SMPS death

🔧 The Solution: Heat Sinks, Ventilation & Better Layout

• Attach heat sinks to high-power MOSFETs and regulators

• Add ventilation holes in enclosures

• Place hot components away from electrolytic capacitors

• Use thermal pads or thermal paste for better heat transfer

💡 Practical Example: 12V 5A SMPS Powering LED Strip

Using this power supply in a closed plastic box caused flickering after 15 minutes.

✅ Fix: Added a small aluminum heat sink on the main switching MOSFET and drilled ventilation holes—problem solved!

🧮 Sample Calculation: Power Dissipation

MOSFET with Rds(on) = 0.1Ω, current = 3A

Power = I² × R = 3² × 0.1 = 0.9W – needs heat sinking!

🛠️ Product Suggestion (Made in India)

Keep your designs cool with locally-made essentials:

• 🔧 Heat Sink Kits – For power components

• 🧪 Flux Paste – Ensures solid solder joints

🛍️ Shop now at SmartXProKits.in
🇮🇳 Support our work and India’s innovation—buy from our Make in India site!