Protecting Sensitive Electronics from Interference
Electronic systems today are more powerful and more connected than ever. From aircraft control panels to medical devices and mining sensors, each relies on precise electrical signals to perform reliably. Yet even a small amount of electromagnetic interference (EMI) can disrupt these signals, leading to malfunctions, data loss, or complete equipment failure.
This interference often comes from other electronic sources, anything from nearby power cables to wireless transmitters. In environments where accuracy and safety are critical, even minor disruptions can have costly consequences.
That’s where EMI shielding comes in. It acts as a barrier that blocks or redirects unwanted electromagnetic energy, protecting sensitive components from interference.
For engineers and manufacturers, understanding what EMI shielding is and how it works is the first step to building safer, more dependable systems.
Queensland Gaskets is the sole Australian supplier of Specialty Silicone Products (SSP) EMI RFI conductive silicone rubber materials. Manufactured in New York, these advanced elastomers combine silicone or fluorosilicone bases with metal or metal-coated particles such as silver, aluminium, copper, or nickel-glass to deliver outstanding conductivity, EMI resistance, and environmental sealing.
SSP silicones are engineered to balance cost, performance, and shielding effectiveness, meeting MIL-STD-83528 standards and resisting tearing, corrosion, fuels, and solvents. Available as conductive sheet stock or ready-to-mould compounds, they support efficient gasket fabrication and global supply reliability.
What Is EMI Shielding?
EMI shielding stands for Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) shielding. It’s the method of preventing unwanted electromagnetic energy from entering or leaving a device. This interference can distort signals, cause electrical faults, or stop equipment from working correctly.
An EMI shield works by creating a conductive barrier around sensitive electronics. When electromagnetic waves hit the barrier, they are either absorbed or reflected, keeping the device’s internal signals stable.
There are different ways to achieve this protection. Common techniques include:
- Conductive coatings or paints applied to electronic enclosures
- Metal housings or meshes that block external radiation
- EMI gaskets that form a conductive seal between two surfaces, such as panels or covers
In short, EMI shielding ensures electronic systems can operate as intended, even in environments full of competing electrical signals.
Why EMI/RFI Shielding Matters
Every electronic device generates electromagnetic energy. When that energy interferes with nearby equipment, it’s known as electromagnetic interference (EMI) or radio frequency interference (RFI). Without proper shielding, these disruptions can lead to serious issues, from signal distortion and communication dropouts to complete system failure.
In industries such as defence, aerospace, rail, energy, and mining, even brief interference can compromise safety, reliability, or performance. EMI can cause control panels to malfunction, sensors to misread data, or communications equipment to lose connection.
Effective EMI/RFI shielding prevents these problems by maintaining signal integrity and reducing electrical noise. It also helps equipment meet strict EMC (Electromagnetic Compatibility) standards required for commercial and defence applications.
By investing in proper shielding early in the design process, manufacturers can avoid costly faults, downtime, and compliance risks, ensuring their systems work dependably in the field.
What Is an EMI Gasket?
An EMI gasket is a conductive seal that prevents electromagnetic energy from leaking through gaps in electronic enclosures. It sits between two surfaces, such as a lid and housing, to create both an electrical connection and a physical barrier.
These gaskets are used anywhere precision and reliability matter, including defence systems, communication equipment, and industrial control panels. By blocking unwanted interference, they help maintain consistent performance and protect sensitive components.
Common EMI gasket materials include:
- Conductive elastomers: silicone or fluorosilicone filled with conductive particles (nickel graphite, silver aluminium, etc.)
- Fabric-over-foam: lightweight, flexible, and ideal for tight spaces
- Metal mesh or wire gaskets: durable and suitable for high-frequency applications
The right gasket depends on the device’s environment, temperature, vibration, corrosion, and exposure to moisture; all play a role.
In essence, EMI gaskets combine mechanical sealing with electrical conductivity, providing a reliable solution for maintaining electromagnetic protection.
Materials and Manufacturing Options
Choosing the right materials is critical to how well an EMI gasket performs. Each environment has its own demands, including heat, vibration, corrosion, and moisture, all of which affect the gasket’s lifespan and effectiveness.
Common EMI gasket materials include:
- Nickel graphite: a cost-effective option with strong conductivity and corrosion resistance.
- Silver aluminium: suitable for harsh environments that require durability and high shielding performance.
- Conductive silicone: flexible, weather-resistant, and ideal for outdoor or high-vibration applications.
- Fabric-over-foam: lightweight and easy to compress, often used for panel seams or access covers.
At Queensland Gaskets, we use these materials alongside precision cutting technologies to manufacture custom EMI and RFI shielding components, from one-off prototypes to full production runs — with a consistent focus on accuracy, reliability, and long-term performance.
Choosing the Right EMI Shielding Solution
Selecting the right EMI shielding solution starts with understanding your application and environment. The material, thickness, and gasket design all affect how effectively interference is blocked and how long the seal lasts.
Here are a few key factors to consider:
- Environment: Assess exposure to temperature, vibration, moisture, or chemicals.
- Conductivity: Choose materials with the right level of electrical resistance for your frequency range.
- Compression and fit: Ensure the gasket forms a consistent seal without deforming under pressure.
- Compliance: Confirm that materials meet relevant EMC or defence standards.
Working with a trusted Australian manufacturer such as Queensland Gaskets ensures your components are built for performance and reliability. Our team can help you choose the most suitable shielding material and design to match your equipment, budget, and production needs.
The result is a solution that maintains signal integrity, reduces interference, and supports long-term equipment performance.
How Queensland Gaskets Supports EMI/RFI Shielding Projects
At Queensland Gaskets, we work closely with engineers and manufacturers to solve complex shielding challenges. Our team provides practical support at every stage, from design advice and material selection to prototyping and production.
We use modern cutting technologies and quality control systems to ensure precision in every gasket we make. Whether the requirement is for a single prototype or a full production order, our process delivers consistent and reliable results.
Our experience spans sectors including defence, aerospace, energy, mining, and transport. We understand the compliance standards and performance expectations across these industries and manufacture products that meet or exceed them.
Every project is handled with the same focus on quality and dependability. When you work with Queensland Gaskets, you gain a manufacturing partner who values long-term reliability, clear communication, and technical expertise.
Contact Queensland Gaskets for EMI Shielding Solutions
If you need dependable EMI or RFI shielding components, talk to the team at Queensland Gaskets. We have decades of experience producing high-quality gaskets and sealing materials for sensitive electronic systems across Australia.
Whether you know exactly what you need or want technical advice on the best solution, we can help. Our team will work with you to develop or manufacture the right EMI gasket or shielding product for your application.
Contact Queensland Gaskets today to discuss your project requirements or request a quote.
