Custom EMI Gasket Design: Key Factors to Consider

Because the electronic devices are becoming smaller and smarter, it is imperative to make sure that the electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) is ensured. EMI gasket is one of the most effective ways to reduce the electromagnetic interference (EMI). These elements stop leakage of electromagnetic energy by electronic enclosures and shield equipment. When an off-the-shelf solution fails a custom designed gasket is in high demand.

 

Knowledge of EMI Gasket Function

 

There are two basic functions of an EMI gasket. It coats to seal off EMR, it seals the cavity to dust or moisture or any other contaminants. They find applications in telecommunications and aerospace, military, automotive and medical devices where continuous performance is critical.

 

You have the flexibility to design your gasket to the geometry of your enclosure, the material you need, and the performance requirements of your application.

 

Important considerations in Designing Custom EMI Gasket

 

Material Selection

The performance has a direct effect on the material chosen. Silicone and fabric-over-sterile gaskets can be filled with metal. Depending on the needed shielding performance, required environmental and mechanical conditions, the right selection is determined. When working with rugged outdoor environments, you may resort to using weather resistant elastomers and fancy conductive composites largely apply to high frequency electronics.

 

Shielding Effectiveness

The gasket should provide sufficient signal attenuation over frequencies needed. The engineers test shielding performance in dB to find out what the shield is cutting. Specific EMI/EMC specifications can be optimized to custom designs.

 

Compression and Recovery Properties

Compressed and then swell back to its former height when compressed many times. Excessive compression will damage the gasket and excessive compression will decrease shielding effectiveness. Tailor-made designs guarantee the balance between the mechanical and electrical requirements.

 

Environmental Conditions

Extreme temperatures, vibration and humidity can often be encountered in outdoor telecom systems, or in military, or aerospace applications. Gaskets are designed to avoid corrosion, temperature and work hard environment change.

 

Size and Geometry

Enclosures are not all standard shaped. EMI gaskets may be customized to specialty designs with non-conventional shapes. With the help of die-cutting, extrusion, and molding engineering, manufacturing can be performed to exact specifications.

 

Cost and Manufacturing Feasibility

Although performance is a factor, other practical concerns like price and scaling are important.  A custom made EMI gasket must be engineered with consideration of the shielding performance, cost effective production and long term availability.

 

Advantages of Custom EMI Gaskets

 

These gaskets fit the best. They assist in reducing the chances of EMI leakage. They are also used to achieve reliability. Most importantly, they are mission-critical applications. Mechanical and electrical maintenance will also assist in addressing EMC regulations as well as increasing the life span of sensitive electrical equipment.

 

Conclusion

 

Protecting electronics against EMI is typically only achievable via a customised, modified solution. A specially designed EMI gasket will meet your unique needs and provide accuracy, efficiency and reliability. Gasket designs developed by engineers to provide EMI shielding and durability can consider materials, compression, environmental factors and manufacturing processes.