Electromagnetic interference (EMI) can impair the consistency and purity of signal transmissions in cables and wires, impairing the functionality of the systems and devices in which they are installed. Shielding is frequently incorporated into cable and wire assemblies to insulate them from EMI for this reason. It is crucial that the type of shielding employed is suitable for the interference present in the application environment lest it negatively affects performance and cost.
As there are many instrumentation cable types in Singapore, many business owners thinking about getting the perfect wiring solution for their business might not understand how to pick and use shielded cables appropriately. And so, we’ve provided an overview of them below, including what they are, the types that are available, and typical applications.
What Are Shielded Cables?
Cables with shielding are cables that have a conductive and protective outer jacket. It essentially creates a Faraday cage that shuts out electromagnetic signals from the outside world, enhancing the signal clarity sent through the interior wires.
A variety of materials can be used to create the jacket component. Each, however, has difficulties that may impair installation and upkeep. For instance, heavier and less flexible thicker braided materials are harder to handle, whereas thinner materials like foils and tapes are more susceptible to wear and tear. Industry experts can select the material that is most suited for the application by being aware of the limitations and applications of each type of cable.
Types of Cable Shielding
There are numerous EMI cable shielding variations, and each is appropriate for a distinct application. Three of the most popular forms of shielding are as follows:
- Braided shielding: Made of bare or tinned copper wires, this type of shielding has a woven mesh structure. Interference coverage ranges from 70 to 95 per cent, depending on how tight and thick the weave is.
- Foil shielding: Also known as tape shielding, this shielding is constructed with a thin coating of copper or aluminium material that can be bonded to a carrier material for more durability and strength. It offers 100% coverage because it is made to be wrapped entirely around the cable or wire with overlap.
- Spiral shielding: To create this kind of shielding, the core is helically wrapped with conductive material. It is often applied to small- to medium-sized cables and wires for better coverage
Use of Shielded Wire and Cables
The performance of electrical and electronic systems and devices is severely harmed by EMI. Shielded wires and cables can therefore be advantageous for almost every industry or industrial process that makes use of this kind of machinery. These are a few instances of usual uses for these products:
Data Centres
A significant number of electronic gadgets are typically housed in data centres. As a result, they send out a lot of signals, which might cause interference and cause equipment performance to suffer. For these facilities, it’s crucial to incorporate EMI shielding in cable and wire assemblies.
Industrial and Manufacturing Factories
EMI can pose a serious threat to industrial and manufacturing factory production. Using unshielded cable and wire assemblies has a number of negative effects, such as equipment downtime, measurement mistakes, data transfer issues, and more. Factory owners and managers can better safeguard their workers and operations by adopting shielded cables and wires.
Medical Services
Medical devices are utilised for many life and death situations. And it is fair to say that the most stringent safety precautions are taken here to ensure that nothing goes wrong. This includes the insulation of cables and wires in equipment to help keep EMI from impairing its performance.
Military Sites
Electronic technologies and devices are frequently used in the military to perform crucial tasks. Therefore, it is crucial to put policies in place that guarantee their reliable and secure operation. To do this, cable and wire shielding are essential since it shields the equipment from EMI of both stray or intentional enemy sources. Commonly used shielded wire and cable technologies include avionics, ground vehicles, portable communication devices, electronic warfare systems, and missiles.
Offices
In offices that use a lot of computers and other electrical/electronic equipment, shielded cables and wires are crucial. EMI can have a major impact on equipment performance and, as a result, office workers’ productivity if it is not adequately managed.
Conclusion – get expert insight to procure the perfect fit
Although unshielded cables and wires can block out low-level EMI interference, these surroundings tend to produce higher levels of EMI, making them less suitable for usage. They are suitable for use in controlled industrial environments, small- to medium-sized facilities, and indoor machinery.
If you are looking to make long-term use of your cables without compromising on quality, then shielded cables are a good investment. Not only do you reduce wire replacement costs, you also learn to extend the lifespan of your wires and cut down on requiring frequent maintenance or replacement charges when the cables need to be replaced.
As there are many industries and applications that rely heavily on shielded cable and wire assembly, each with its own requirements and needs, we suggest that you reach out to Cable Source’s experts to find out more information about these products. As a Singapore cable company, we can address any inquiries you may have concerning wire and cable solutions, and we are equipped to provide a tailored shielding solution that satisfies your application needs. Don’t feel daunted and let’s get the perfect cabling solutions for you and your business today.
