As electronic systems grow more complex and ubiquitous in modern life, reliable electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding is more crucial than ever. EMI consists of unwanted radiated signals that can cause electronic malfunctions, performance degradation, signal interference, and even safety issues.
To ensure long-lasting, optimal performance, electronic devices must be protected from both incoming and outgoing interference. Hollingsworth & Vose offers advanced EMI shielding materials designed for seamless integration across diverse applications.
EMI Shielding With Safe-N-Shielded
Our Safe-N-Shielded fiber-based veils are wet-laid non-woven fabrics designed to minimize the effect of radiated electromagnetic energy by reflecting and/or absorbing it. Safe-N-Shielded veils consist of conductive, metalized fibers featuring highly efficient shielding capabilities.
Safe-N-Shielded veils are manufactured with extreme uniformity and with basis weights as low as 6g/m2 for high porosity. They feature exceptional flexibility and easily conform to various structural components. Our EMI shielding solution is suitable for a range of applications, including:
- Battery housings
- Composite panels and enclosures
- Conductive tapes
- Electronics and avionics enclosures
- Motor and actuator housings
- Medical equipment
- Resistive heating
How EMI Shielding Works
Electromagnetic waves are composed of two perpendicular components: a magnetic field (H) and an electric field (E). These fields are at right angles to each other and to the direction of wave propagation. The relative magnitude of these fields depends on the waveform and its source.
Wave impedance, defined as the ratio of E to H, determines how electromagnetic waves interact with materials. In free space, the intrinsic impedance is 377 Ω. EMI shielding typically operates in two distinct regions: the near-field region and the far-field region.
- Far-Field Shielding Region: When the distance between the shield and the radiation source is greater than λ/2π (where λ is the wavelength of the radiation source), the system is in the far-field region, and electromagnetic plane wave theory is used to analyze shielding effectiveness.
- Near-Field Shielding Region: When the distance is less than λ/2π, the system is in the near-field region. In this case, shielding behavior is evaluated using theories based on the contributions of electric and magnetic dipoles.
EMI shielding can occur through three primary mechanisms:
- Absorption: The wave energy is dissipated within the shielding material.
- Reflection: The wave energy is deflected away from the shield.
- Multiple Reflections: Waves are repeatedly reflected within the shield, further reducing their intensity.
Fiber Options for EMI Shielding
H&V provides three specialized fiber solutions to address critical EMI shielding challenges:
- Nickel-Coated Carbon
Nickel-coated carbon combines the lightweight strength of carbon with the conductivity and corrosion resistance of nickel. This versatile material delivers exceptional shielding across a wide frequency range, making it ideal for telecommunications, medical devices, and industrial electronics. - Carbon
Pure carbon offers a high strength-to-weight ratio and inherent conductivity, making it a reliable, lightweight solution for EMI shielding in durable applications. - Carbon/Glass Blends
Carbon/glass blends pair the structural integrity of glass fibers with the conductivity of carbon, creating a hybrid material that balances durability, flexibility, and shielding.
Why Choose H&V?
With over 30 years of expertise in advanced fiber nonwovens, Hollingsworth & Vose is a trusted partner in solving complex EMI shielding challenges. Our materials are precision-engineered to deliver reliable performance, customizable solutions, and streamlined integration for critical applications.
Contact us today to learn more about Safe-N-Shielded veils and how they can meet your EMI shielding requirements.