Electromagnetic Compatibility & Performance Considerations
Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) The ability of a device, equipment, or system to function satisfactorily in its electromagnetic environment without
introducing intolerable electromagnetic disturbance to anything in that environment.
Here are some of the factors affecting Electromagnetic Compatibility:

Design for EMC: Consider EMC early in the design process, from careful layout of PCB’s andcomponents ensuring good signal integrity. Design with the accommodation of EMI gaskets forenclosure seams and covers, I/O connections, doors etc. Retrofit is expensive.

Mechanical: Closure forces of gaskets vary dependant on material, profile, and size. Enclosure
panel rigidity will dictate the minimum number of fixings. Compression limits should be used toprotect the gasket from damage caused by over compression/deflection.

RFI/EMI Shielding: The basis of RFI/EMI shielding to make a faraday cage of the enclosure andensure good grounding, this can be at PCB level for discreet components, modular and the finalenclosure. Enclosures can vary in size from small handheld devices up to large cabinets andarchitectural rooms/buildings.

Shielding Effectiveness: To ensure good shielding effectiveness, low contact resistance is required
between the gasket and the mating surface of the enclosure. For optimum shielding it is best toensure metal to metal contact by using gaskets in grooves or incorporate labyrinth designs.

Environmental: Dust and moisture sealing is often a requirement alongside the EMC needs.
Electrically conductive elastomers provide this up to IP66 and above if the design is to achievethis. ECE Fluorosilicones will seal against fuels, oils etc. For very harsh environments
non-conductive seals can be incorporated in the design.
Chemical or Galvanic compatibility: Two dissimilar metals in the presence of an electrolyte e.g.
salt fog will act as a battery and create a flow of electric current. This effect can cause corrosion of
the less noble material and will increase contact resistance between the gasket and enclosure
causing a reduction in shielding effectiveness.
Electromagnetic Fields: When shielding magnetic fields generally the requirement is 10Khz andabove, high permeability metal type gaskets are needed these gaskets have a high current carrying
capacity and are suitable for EMP protection. High frequency electric field 1GHz and above require
highly conductive more noble materials such as conductive elastomers with silver plated particles.

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