Specialty Silicone Products (SSP) makes RF gasket materials that combine environmental sealing with shielding against radio frequency interference (RFI).
Types of RF Gasket Materials
SSP makes the following types of electrically conductive materials.
- 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
In addition to ready-to-fabricate materials, SSP supplies ready-to-install products.
RF Gasket FAQs
This section contains answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs).
Q: What is an RF Gasket?
An RF gasket combines environmental sealing and insulation with shielding against radio frequency interference (RFI). It’s used in applications where radio frequency (RF) signals are present, such as communication devices, military equipment, medical devices, and automotive electronics.
Q: Does It Provide Environmental Sealing?
The primary function of a rubber 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.
Q: Why use an RF Gasket Instead of an EMI Gasket?
Both type of gaskets serve the purpose of shielding electronic enclosures from interference. However, the choice between the two depends on the specific shielding requirements, frequency range, environmental factors, and mechanical considerations.
Q: Do RF Gaskets Support High-Frequency Applications?
Yes. They 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.
Q. Do RF Gaskets Attenuate Microwave Frequencies?
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.
Q: What about Gasket Compression?
An RF 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.
Q: Why Buy These Products from SSP?
Specialty Silicone Products (SSP) makes EMI/RFI shielding silicones and can fabricate mold or cut the asket 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 to request a quote.
