EMI/RFI Shielding
01.
What is EMI/RFI Shielding?
EMI (Electromagnetic Interference) and RFI (Radio Frequency Interference) refer to unwanted electromagnetic emissions that can affect the performance of electronic systems. EMI includes a broad spectrum of electromagnetic waves, whereas RFI specifically focuses on interference caused by radio frequency signals.
Shielding is the process of blocking or redirecting these signals away from sensitive electronic components using conductive or magnetic materials. This is done to:
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Prevent device malfunction or degradation
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Ensure signal integrity in high-speed data transmission
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Comply with regulatory standards such as FCC or CE
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Increase product lifespan and reliability
02.
How EMI/RFI Shielding Works
Shielding relies on a physical barrier made of conductive material that either reflects or absorbs electromagnetic radiation. The efficiency of the shield depends on several factors:
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Conductivity of the shielding material (e.g., copper, aluminum)
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Permeability (in magnetic shielding)
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Thickness of the shielding layer
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Grounding and sealing of the shield to prevent leakage
Our Solutions
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Foil Tape
Copper Tape
$18.00 – $36.00 Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
Foil Tape
Aluminum Tape
Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
03.
Comparison: Foil Tape vs. Aluminum Mylar vs. Aluminum Polyimide Film
| Feature | Foil Tape | Aluminum Mylar | Aluminum Polyimide Film |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shielding Efficiency | High | Moderate to High | Very High |
| Flexibility | Good | Excellent | Good |
| Temperature Resistance | Moderate (up to ~150°C) | Moderate | High (up to 260°C or more) |
| Mechanical Strength | Moderate | High | Very High |
| Common Applications | Sealing seams, grounding, cable shielding | Cable wraps, shielding circuits, data cables | Aerospace, defense, EV batteries, harsh environments |
| Adhesive | Yes (optionally conductive) | No (used as wrap) | No (high-temp adhesives available) |
| Moisture Resistance | Good | Excellent | Excellent |
| Cost | Low to Moderate | Moderate | Higher |
04
Key Considerations When Choosing a Shielding Material
When selecting the right material for EMI/RFI shielding, engineers and designers must consider:
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Frequency range: Higher frequencies require tighter, more conductive shields.
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Application environment: Heat, moisture, chemicals, and UV exposure.
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Required flexibility: For cables vs. flat surfaces.
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Shielding effectiveness: Measured in dB of attenuation.
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Installation method: Adhesive tape, wrap, or laminate.
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Grounding: Effective shielding must be grounded to work
Importance of Shielding
Protecting Electronic Functionality
EMI/RFI shielding is essential for protecting electronic devices from electromagnetic interference that can disrupt normal operation. Without shielding, signals can become distorted or lost, leading to malfunctions in systems ranging from smartphones to life-saving medical equipment.
Meeting Industry and Regulatory Standards
Many industries must comply with strict EMC (electromagnetic compatibility) regulations, such as FCC or CE standards. Effective shielding enables manufacturers to meet these requirements, ensuring legal compliance and safe integration of electronic products into diverse environments.
Ensuring Signal Quality and Data Integrity
In high-speed data and communication systems, maintaining clean and stable signals is critical. EMI can cause signal degradation, crosstalk, or latency issues. Shielding helps prevent these problems, ensuring accurate and efficient data transmission in applications like networking, audio, and video equipment.
Increasing Reliability and Product Lifespan
Shielded devices are less prone to failure caused by external interference or electrostatic discharge. This added protection enhances long-term performance, reduces maintenance needs, and builds user trust—especially in critical industries like aerospace, defense, and automotive electronics.