Why is EMC needed?
When enclosures are designed, it’s essential that the regulatory and RF environments where the systems will be used are taken into account. Some solutions that perform well in laboratories may fail in other environments. EMC (electromagnetic compatibility) must be considered well before the final stage of a product’s development. If problems are discovered too late into the development stage, a great deal of time, money and effort can be wasted. In fact, it’s best to start thinking about electromagnetic compatibility right at the start of your project.
The purposes of shielding
Enclosures need to limit the emissions leaving a product as well as any interference likely to enter it. The shielding effectiveness of a product determines how few radio waves pass through it. Shielding can be incredibly effective in reducing the emissions of your system whilst also keeping immunity problems to a minimum. Many new electronics enclosures need to meet EMC immunity and emissions needs as well as any mechanical, aesthetic and cost restrictions.
What makes shielding effective?
The effectiveness of shielding is determined by joints and seams rather than material. It’s wise to opt for a large number of small holes instead of a vast single hole. This is because the maximum dimension of an opening is what determines leakage levels. All metal parts need to be bonded effectively for your enclosure to be useful. Long seams and slots should be avoided, and it may be necessary to restore the shield integrity at areas like component holes, viewing aperture and cooling holes. Solutions like honeycomb filters are often used to stop leakages occurring at openings like air vents. It may also be necessary to add a conductive window for viewing purposes.
Getting in touch
Get in touch today if you need to develop a new electrical enclosure. You can reach us today by completing the form on our website, by sending a message to info@4dproducts.co.uk or by calling us on 01925 607145.
