Fabric over foam EMI shielding gaskets for high-temperature applications

The Chomerics division of Parker Hannifin is launching SOFT-SHIELD 3800, an electrically conductive fabric over silicone foam EMI shielding and electrical grounding gasket for low closure force and high temperature electronics applications.

Said to be the first product of its type to reach market, SOFT SHIELD 3800 profiles come in complex and unique non-rectangular shapes, and are an extension of the conventional rectangular profiles within Parker’s existing SOFT-SHIELD 3700 series.

Both SOFT-SHIELD 3800 and 3700 are economical solutions to EMI shielding and grounding for electronics applications across various sectors. The product offers 100 dB shielding effectiveness in the range 20 MHz to 10 GHz.

Among the applications that can benefit from these innovative products include computer server faceplates and inserts, consumer electronics, electronics enclosures, door seals, and EMI window and vent gaskets.

With an operating temperature range up to 125°C, SOFT-SHIELD 3800 is ideal for applications exposed to high heat, supported by a UL 94 V-0 flammability rating.

In terms of composition, SOFT-SHIELD 3800 comprises an electrically conductive nickel-plated copper polyester taffeta weave fabric wrapped around open-cell silicone foam. This abrasive- and shear-resistant wrap-around technology grounds the gasket from point to point, representing an electrically conductive solution to eliminate EMI gaps.

The new solution offers additional benefits to customers, as Ben Nudelman, global market manager of the Chomerics division, explains: “This product typically requires less than 80g/mm of closure force for effective electrical contact. It also takes less than 10% compression set, delivering reliable and repeatable shielding performance over the service life of the device. SOFT-SHIELD 3800 represents a first-class shielding and grounding alternative to traditional spring finger type products.”

RoHS- and REACH-compliant, dozens of standard SOFT-SHIELD 3800 parts are available in bulk or cut to length. In addition, Parker offers custom profiles upon request. The product comes with conductive or non-conductive PSA adhesive, or without.