The development of numerous advanced electronic devices has come with a unique problem of the interference of waves and signals. Any electrical disturbance resulting from some natural phenomena or an electronic device is known as Electromagnetic Interference (EMI). The electronic…

The development of numerous advanced electronic devices has come with a unique problem of the interference of waves and signals. Any electrical disturbance resulting from some natural phenomena or an electronic device is known as Electromagnetic Interference (EMI). The electronic devices or the electrical systems in every industry are vulnerable to EMI and radio frequency interference (RFI). Electronic devices’ electromagnetic waves harm other electronic devices, leading to malfunctions and system failure altogether. These interferences are generated either by two circuits inside a single product or externally from another product.

The terms EMI and RFI are often used interchangeably. However, both have different meanings. Specifically, the term EMI is used to refer to any frequency of electrical noise. The RFI, on the other hand, refers to electrical noise related to the radiofrequency field.

EMI-RFI Shielding

Electromagnetic Interference Shielding or EMI shielding is when electromagnetic interference is minimized in the electrical system by using conductive or magnetic materials to block the field. Thus, the negative effects of EMI or RFI can be reduced with EMI/RFI Shielding agents’ help. There are two ways to prevent EMI/RFI effects. Firstly, the design engineers should consider various EMI-RFI standards and take every possible step to prevent their device from emitting signals. Secondly, in case the design doesn’t have the scope of reducing EMI, then the engineers have the effective option of applying an EMI-RFI shielded enclosure. Usually, EMI/RFI Shielding is used in the form of an acrylic-based spray to provide protection.

EMI-RFI shielding can be either sprayed internally to electronic enclosures or brushed on the enclosure exterior to eliminate interference. Pure elements, like silver, copper, and nickel, are used as the shielding agent. The plastic enclosures are coated with the spray to reduce or eliminate the effects of interference.

Benefits of using an EMI-RFI Plastic Enclosure

To provide a natural barrier against EMI/RFI, the best practice is to use highly conductive materials, like silver, aluminum, or copper, to manufacture enclosures. But this is not always feasible because design engineers look for cost-effective solutions. Therefore, to prevent electronics from electromagnetic interferences, engineers apply EMI-RFI shielding spray on plastic enclosures to reflect the interfering radiation.

Other enclosure materials, such as aluminum, can also be applied to the enclosure to protect your electronic devices. However, despite being extremely durable, aluminum may not be the right choice for temperature-sensitive projects.

Importance of EMI-RFI Shielding in industries

For all industries, EMI/RFI Shielding is of utmost importance. For instance, radio transmissions are affected in the telecom industry if the signals are near the same frequency. Moreover, the medical industry demands the proper functioning of medical equipment by ensuring protection against interferences. The crucial medical equipment requires meeting FDA standards to prevent them from the negative effects of cell phones, PDAs, or other electronic devices. The need for EMI-RFI shielding is not confined to these industries; it is, in fact, essential for every industry to prevent electronic equipment failure and ensure smooth operations.

It is noteworthy that different electronic require a different level of shielding. Although every electronic produce some amount of signal, this amount varies from device to device. Some electronics demand a strong layer of protection depending on the amount of radiation, while another protection layering. Thothersctronics, which require significant protection against EMI-RFI, must be treated with a high-quality enclosure with steadfast protection.

The need for EMI-RFI shielding is realized by industries and how their end product may benefit from an EMI-RFI shielded enclosure. Thus, the need for high-quality and strong EMI-RFI shielding has become imperative to protect equipment from potential electromagnetic or radio interference.