Parallel Inductance

Formula

Description

Parallel inductors combine using the reciprocal formula, identical to how parallel resistors combine. The total inductance is always less than the smallest individual inductor. This occurs because parallel paths allow current to distribute across multiple inductors, reducing the total magnetic energy stored for a given total current. As with series inductance, this formula assumes no mutual coupling between inductors. Parallel inductors are less common in practice than series, but are used in current sharing applications and sometimes in filter designs.

Variables

• Ltotal — Total equivalent inductance (H)
• L1, L2, ... Ln — Individual inductor values (H)

Practical Notes

Parallel inductors can share DC current load, which is useful when a single inductor cannot handle the required current without saturating. Ensure the inductors are from the same manufacturing batch or have matched values to prevent current imbalance.