EMI & RFI Shielding Materials

What are EMI & RFI Shielding Materials?

• EMI & RFI shielding materials are substances, coatings, or components engineered to block or absorb electromagnetic and radio-frequency signals, preventing unwanted interference with electronic devices. These materials are critical for maintaining the reliability and performance of sensitive electronic systems.

Common Considerations

• Frequency Range: Materials must be selected based on the specific frequency range of the interference to be shielded. Different materials are effective at different frequencies.

• Shielding Effectiveness: The shielding effectiveness of materials, measured in decibels (dB), determines their ability to attenuate or block electromagnetic and radio-frequency signals.

• Material Form: EMI & RFI shielding materials are available in various forms, including specialty elastomer blends, foils, conductive paints, gaskets, and enclosures. The choice depends on the application and installation requirements.

• Environmental Conditions: Consider the environmental conditions, such as temperature, humidity, and exposure to chemicals, to ensure that the selected materials remain effective over time.

• Regulatory Compliance: Materials should comply with industry standards and regulations, such as MIL-DTL-83528 for military applications or FCC regulations for consumer electronics.

• Integration with Design: The integration of shielding materials into the design of electronic devices or enclosures is crucial to achieving optimal EMI & RFI performance.

Material Options

• Conductive Gaskets and Seals: Conductive gaskets and seals are used to create a conductive seal between mating surfaces, providing EMI & RFI protection in enclosures.

• Conductive Foils: Conductive foils made of materials like copper or aluminum are used to create effective shields within enclosures or on the surfaces of electronic devices.

• Conductive Paints and Coatings: Conductive paints and coatings contain metallic particles and can be applied directly to surfaces to create shielding layers.

• Conductive Fabrics and Tapes: Conductive fabrics and tapes are flexible materials that can be used to wrap or cover sensitive components or cables.

• Shielded Enclosures: Entire enclosures can be designed to act as shields, offering complete protection for electronic equipment.