Understanding The Importance of EMI Shielding Awareness
EMI shielding awareness comes into play in any number of industries. And the presence of EMI can be harmful – even devastating. Fortunately, there are ways to protect against EMI. Let’s take a look at what it is and why it is so essential.
What Is EMI?
EMI, or electromagnetic interference, can disrupt systems, equipment, and electronic devices used in applications that are most critical. Some examples of those would be as follows:
- Vehicular control and navigation systems
- Industrial touchscreens
- Mass transit systems
- Aerospace electronics
- Military and medical electronics
There isn’t one of those industries in which electrical interference would be beneficial. It would, in fact, be deadly in many instances.
What causes EMI? Causes range from natural to man-made sources and everything in between.
What are the results of EMI? The temporary disturbances caused by EMI can be as simple as system failure and data losses. But those simple failures can lead to a catastrophic end, such as loss of life.
EMI Awareness
What would be the harm if EMI awareness is neglected? As an example, a gasket could be designed that would be lacking in adequate protection against electromagnetic fields. This could interfere with wireless communications and a plethora of other repercussions.
Where Does EMI Come From?
There are numerous sources of EMI, but they can be broken down into a couple of basic categories: power quality problems and ambient EMI. Here are examples of both:
EMI can be caused by power quality problems from the following conditions:
- Voltage sags and spikes
- Powerline faults
- Electrical noise on the mains power line
- EFT or electrical fast transitions
- Blackouts and brownouts
EMI can be caused by natural and man-made sources such as the following:
- Earth’s magnetic field flux
- Lightning
- Solar magnetic storms
- Computer circuits
- Brush motors
- Arc welders
Due To a Lack of EMI Awareness…
A lack of EMI awareness can cause a breakdown or problem in any number of industries. Here are some examples of why EMI awareness is so crucial. (Granted, some of these are extreme, but it will help you to get the point):
EMI threats to critical infrastructure and military assets such as the following:
- EMP cannons
- E-bombs
- High-power microwave weapons
- HNEMP or high-altitude nuclear electromagnetic pulse
Application-specific sources where EMI could interfere with medical equipment:
- X-ray machines for therapeutics and diagnostics
- Patient assistance and telemetry equipment
- Life-support devices such as infusion pumps and ventilators
- Electronic and electrical equipment in surgical units
And imagine if EMI caused problems for the mass transit and railroad systems involving the following:
- Control systems and train signaling systems
- Third rail shoes
- High-voltage contact switching
- Admissions from propulsion and train control systems
As you can see, there is no room for ignorance when it comes to EMI shielding awareness. A&A Coatings offers EMI and RFI (radio frequency interference) shielding coating solutions. Though the medical and health industry utilizes these kinds of protective coatings in abundance, they are also used throughout numerous other industries. Now that you’re aware of the possibilities that could arise from a lack of EMI shielding and the awareness of such, contact us to discuss our shielding coating solutions. Someone is available today to speak with you.
