Even the electronics designed by some of the world’s best brands can be susceptible to electromagnetic noise. Such disturbances affect their functionality and efficiency considerably. A Faraday cage is used as a protective shield against the electromagnetic radiation coming from the external environment, or it prevents electromagnetic energy radiated from the internal components from escaping the cage. These protective shields are used in different kinds of electronic and electrical equipment.
How Does It Work?
A Faraday cage creates a barrier between the internal components of a device and the external electric fields. It works because an outside electric field causes a redistribution of the electric charges within the enclosure’s conducting material, which in turn cancels the field’s effect in the cage’s interior. This ensures that the electrical components within the enclosure can function properly without interruption.
Various Applications
Microwave: You can find a real-life example of Faraday cage right inside your kitchen. The metal shell in your microwave oven acts as a Faraday cage, and prevents the microwaves inside the oven from leaking into the environment.
EMI shielding for Electronic Equipment: It is important to protect various electronic equipment from the electromagnetic radiation coming from other electronic units present in the environment. Coaxial cables used for television generally consist of a copper braided shield underneath the PVC jacket that acts as a Faraday cage to protect the internal conductors from external electrical noise and to prevent any RF leakage.
Protective Gear for Electricians and Linemen: The protective suits worn by men working in hazardous environments are nothing but a type of Faraday cage. These suits are designed to protect workers from being electrocuted while working in close proximity to high voltage power lines.
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Faraday cages are also used in MRI scan rooms to prevent external radio frequency signals from causing any distortion to the data coming from the patient.
Lightening Safety: The protective metal compartment of a car or an airplane acts a faraday cage to protect its passengers from external electric charges such as lightning.
Do you know that every appliance in your home – from the laptop to the refrigerator – needs protection from invisible electromagnetic waves to function optimally? A Faraday cage can provide the protection they need. Have more questions about a Faraday cage or looking for EMI solutions? Contact us today.
