Combining plastic injection molding with EMI/RFI shielding is critical to protect electronic devices and other industrial applications from electromagnetic and radio frequency interference. For years, Seaway Plastics has worked closely with customers to develop plastic injection molded parts with EMI/RFI shielding for the electronic, aerospace, and diagnostic medical industries. Using conductive paint or spray coating, the experienced team at Seaway Plastics completes all EMI/RFI shielding for plastic injection molded parts in-house, further reducing final costs and turnaround times. This scalable and cost-effective process provides adequate protection against interference for all the various electrical devices integrated into our daily lives. This article looks closely at what EMI and RFI are, how they impact electronic devices, and the process behind the high-quality shielding offered by Seaway Plastics.
Understanding EMI & RFI in Plastic Injection Molding
Electromagnetic and radio frequency interference come in a variety of forms and can degrade the performance of electrical devices or completely stop devices from functioning. Both are growing problems for the modern world, as electrical devices continue to grow from personal items like smart watches to high-tech traffic sensor cameras or the advanced electronic systems in commercial and military aircraft. While both terms can be used interchangeably, especially when it pertains to adding EMI/RFI shielding to plastic injection molded parts, some small differentiations are important to mention.
Electromagnetic Interference (EMI)
Electromagnetic interference (EMI) refers to any kind of electrical disturbance that falls within the electromagnetic spectrum and can disrupt a circuit from performing as intended. EMI originates from different sources within a device and through external sources that can impact device performance or inhibit functionality.
Radio Frequency Interference (RFI)
Radio frequency interference (RFI is a subset of electrical interference that falls within the broader EMI classification. These undesirable electrical signals interfere with the device’s ability to receive the intended or desired signal. This leads to static or signal interruptions on things like radios or other wireless communication devices.
FAQS for Plastic Injection Molded Parts with EMI/RFI Shielding
The specific type of EMI/RFI shielding for plastic injection molded parts depends on several factors, including the end applications, desired protection level, and the temperature range the part is expected to operate in. Some of the most frequently asked questions about Seaway Plastic’s capabilities for plastic injection molded parts with EMI/RFI shielding are below!
How does Seaway Plastics apply EMI/RFI shielding to plastic parts?
While there are several different methods of applying EMI/RFI shielding to plastic parts, Seaway Plastics uses either conductive paint or a spray coating. Unlike other providers that use more expensive plating or chemical reactive processes, Seaway achieves uniform coverage on uniquely shaped plastic parts at competitive prices and faster turnaround times.
Are there specific plastics or resins better suited for this process?
The base material plastics required for this process are extremely broad and encompass everything from standard injection molded plastics like PC and ABS to high-performance engineered resins like Ultem, PEEK, and Nylon used in specialty applications.
Is this post-molding service completed in-house at Seaway Plastics?
Yes! All post-molding EMI shielding is applied in-house at our facility once it leaves the injection molding machines. By growing our capabilities to include this unique service, we’ve been able to keep our costs competitive, even with overseas providers, and offer some of the fastest turnaround times in the industry.
Does Seaway Plastics offer design assistance for plastic injection molded parts with EMI or RFI shielding?
Typically, the vast majority of our customers already have their part design sorted by the time they reach out for injection molding and EMI shielding. Our team can offer helpful insights into the project once we learn more about the end applications, including recommendations on specific plastics or adding EMI shielding if it is not specified in the original designs.
Experienced Plastic Injection Molding Company with In-House EMI/RFI Shielding
As electronic, aerospace, and medical applications continue to evolve, protecting these innovative devices from EMI and RFI interference is more critical than ever. Seaway Plastics provides a cost-effective solution for these industries by combining precision plastic injection molding with in-house EMI/RFI shielding, ensuring high-quality, reliable performance for sensitive components. Seaway Plastics is ISO 9001, ISO 13485, and NADCAP certified, with an additional ITAR registration for our work within the defense industry. With our decades of industry expertise, rapid turnaround times, and scalable production capabilities, Seaway Plastics can become your trusted partner for durable EMI/RFI shielded plastic components.