While working with sensitive electrical equipment it’s important to keep parts protected from exposure to electromagnetic interference. One precautionary measure that companies can take is the use of the EMI gasket.
EMI gaskets are used in a variety of industries, including the automotive, appliance, aerospace, and lighting sectors. There are a few different variations of the EMI gasket so companies can find a design that is suitable for their needs, but all EMI’s serve the same general functions.
Basic Functions
The general purpose of EMI gaskets is to keep external electromagnetic interference from inhibiting the function of devices. EMI gaskets create electrical pathways that bond system components to a common ground. This improves the reliability of an enclosure because the gaskets now serve as low impudence conductors.
The EMI gasket is also used to create environmental and pressure seals for some applications.
Other Variables
Firstly, it’s important to determine how much exposure a part is going to experience so a gasket with a corresponding EMI shielding effectiveness can be used. Shielding effectiveness often ranges from 10ghz to 20ghz.
Compression is an important factor that needs to be considered when looking for EMI gaskets. In order to function properly, an EMI gasket needs to have a deflection of around 30 percent of low closure force. If a gasket is going to be compressed and released frequently a compression set may be needed to prevent excessive deflection.
Making sure the gasket fits properly wherever it is applied is of critical importance. If the gasket is not fitted properly, it may fail to properly protect the device from EMI. An important part of fitting a gasket is mounting. There are numerous ways to mount a gasket, including pressure sensitive adhesives, friction fits, clip on gaskets, framing, molding, epoxies, and fasteners. Some types of mounting are best suited for certain applications.
When running a business, efficiency and keeping parts and tools in good shape go hand in hand. EMI gaskets are an effective means of ensuring electrical parts and tools maintain maximum productivity. When searching for the right kind of gasket for your application, it’s important to consider the environment and specifics of the application (such as level of EMI exposure), so the right kind of gasket, and mounting, is used.
