An RF gasket combines environmental sealing and insulation with shielding against radio frequency interference (RFI). RF gaskets are used in applications where radio frequency (RF) signals are present, such as communication devices, military equipment, medical devices, and automotive electronics.
Specialty Silicone Products (SSP) makes EMI/RFI shielding silicones and can fabricate mold or cut the RFI gasket that you need. We made our materials at our Ballston Spa, New York (USA) manufacturing and have an in-house toolroom and laboratory. Plus, we sell RF gasket materials in low minimum order quantities.
Contact SSP for more information.
What is an RF Gasket?
An RF gasket prevents unwanted radio frequency (RF) signals from entering or leaving a device that uses signals in this part of the electromagnetic spectrum. In other words, an RFI gasket prevents radio frequency interference (RFI) from affecting device performance. SSP makes RF gasket materials fabricates RF gaskets for military and civilian applications.
When to use an RF Gasket instead of an EMI Gasket?
An RF gasket and an EMI gasket both serve the purpose of shielding electronic enclosures from electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI). However, the choice between the two depends on the specific shielding requirements, frequency range, environmental factors, and mechanical considerations.
High-Frequency Applications
RF gaskets are designed for applications requiring effective shielding at high frequencies, typically in the radio frequency (RF) spectrum (MHz to GHz range). They are commonly used in wireless communication devices, radar systems, and high-frequency test equipment where controlling RF leakage is critical.
Microwave and RF Shielding
Unlike standard EMI gaskets, RF gaskets are optimized to provide superior attenuation at microwave frequencies. They are ideal for RF enclosures, waveguides, antennas, and military-grade communication equipment that operate at GHz frequencies.
Precision Contact and Conductivity
RF gaskets are often made of materials like silver-plated elastomers, beryllium copper (BeCu) finger stock, or conductive fabric-over-foam to ensure low-resistance contact and continuous conductivity. EMI gaskets, while conductive, may not provide the same level of precision shielding at higher frequencies.
Minimizing RF Leakage in Shielded Rooms and Cabinets
In Faraday cages, RF test chambers, and shielded enclosures, gaskets are used to prevent unwanted signal leakage and ensure isolation from external RF noise.
Environmental Sealing Alongside RF Shielding
Certain RF gaskets provide IP-rated environmental sealing, making them suitable for outdoor RF enclosures where moisture, dust, or temperature extremes are concerns.
In contrast, EMI gaskets are more general-purpose, addressing a wider range of electromagnetic interference, including low-frequency signals. If your main concern is broad-spectrum EMI protection rather than high-frequency RF shielding, an EMI gasket may be sufficient.
RF Gasket Materials
An RFI gasket uses silicone or fluorosilicone as the base elastomer. The compound is filled with metal, bimetallic, or metal coated particles that provide electrical conductivity. Examples of these filler materials include silver-aluminum, silver-copper, and nickel-graphite. Without these filler materials, silicones and fluorosilicones are electrically resistive instead.
RF Gasket with Environmental Sealing
The primary function of a gasket is to seal gaps or seams in enclosures, cases, or housings. This prevents the ingress of water and keeps electromagnetic waves from entering or existing. Silicone elastomers also resist a wide range of temperatures and exhibit excellent thermal stability.
RFI Shielding Materials
RFI shielding materials provide protection against radio frequency interference (RFI), a form of EMI in the radio frequency (RF) portion of the electromagnetic spectrum.
Visit the page on our website to find these electrically conductive compounds.
- MIL-DTL-83528 QPL Certified
- Corrosion Resistant
- Low Shore A/Soft
- Fuel and Solvent Resistant
- Low Outgassing
- Most Conductive
- Flame Retardant
- EMI Connector Gaskets
- Reinforced
- Most Cost Effective
- Non-Silicone Based EMI Elastomer
- By Filler
SSP offers a certificate of analysis (COA) with each batch and publishes technical data sheets (TDS), EMI shielding reports, and other information on our website.
RF Gasket Compression
An gasket is designed to be compressed when the enclosure is closed, ensuring a tight seal that maintains shielding effectiveness over time. The RFI silicones that SSP offers are available in low durometers for applications where low compressive forces are present. Many of our gasket materials meet MIL-DTL-83528 requirements.
Contact SSP to request a quote for RF gaskets.
