Energy Stored in Inductor Calculator

Compute magnetic energy with precision using inductance and current, including flexible unit inputs and engineering notation. Validate entries, handle edge cases, and see results in joules, millijoules, and watt‑hours with clear formulas and steps. Ideal for electronics labs, power systems, and education, this responsive tool supports quick what‑ifs, bookmarking presets, and printable summaries for reports. Export calculations as PDF files.

Accepts scientific notation (e.g., 3.3e-3). 1 mH = 1×10-3 H.
Peak current recommended for pulsed circuits. 1 mA = 1×10-3 A.
About This Tool

This calculator evaluates the magnetic field energy stored in an ideal inductor for a given inductance and current. It is useful for sizing snubbers, estimating transient energy, or understanding power conversion dynamics.

For lossy components or dynamic waveforms, integrate E(t) = \u00bd L i(t)^2 over the relevant interval, or simulate the circuit for greater fidelity.

Frequently Asked Questions
1) What is the equation for energy in an inductor?

The energy stored is E = \u00bd L I^2, where L is inductance in henry and I is current in ampere.

2) Should I use RMS, average, or peak current?

Use the instantaneous current for the moment of interest. For worst case energy in pulsed systems, use peak current.

3) Does core saturation affect the result?

Yes. If the core saturates, the effective inductance drops with current, reducing energy below the ideal calculation.

4) Can I compute energy using voltage and time?

You can integrate power: E = \u222B v(t) i(t) \, dt. For constant L and a known current profile, E = \u00bd L I^2 at the final current.

5) What units are supported?

Inductance: nH, µH, mH, H. Current: mA, A. Results are shown in J, mJ, µJ, and Wh.

6) Why do my measured results differ?

Parasitics, temperature, saturation, and measurement bandwidth alter real behavior. The formula assumes an ideal, linear inductor.

7) How many significant figures should I choose?

Match the precision of your input data. Typical engineering practice uses 3–6 significant figures.

Important Note: All the Calculators listed in this site are for educational purpose only and we do not guarentee the accuracy of results. Please do consult with other sources as well.