Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Shielding Handbook
IEEE PRESS
445 Hoes Lane, PO Box 1331
Piscataway, NJ 08855-1331
1991 Editorial Board
Leonard Shaw, Editor in Chief
William C. Guyker, Editor, Selected Reprint Series
1. E. Brittain
S. H. Charap
R. C. Dorf
1. 1. Farrell III
L. 1. Greenstein
1. D. Irwin
W. K. Jenkins
S. Luryi
E. K. Miller
1. G. Nagle
1. D. Ryder
A. C. Schell
M. Simaan
M. I. Skolnik
G. S. Smith
Y. Sunahara
R. Welchel
1. W. Woods
Architectural Electromagnetic
Shielding Handbook
A Design and Specification Guide
Leland H. Hemming
Engineering Consultant
I EEE
PRESS
10
ISBN 0-7803-6024-9
IEEE Order No. PP2824
The Library of Congress has catalogued the hard cover edition of this
title as follows:
Architectural electromagnetic shielding handbook: a design and
specification guide / Leland H. Hemming, engineering consultant.
p.
em.
Includes bibliographical references and index.
ISBN 0-87942-287-4
I. Shielding (Electricity) 2. Magnetic Shielding. I. Hemming,
Leland H. II. Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers.
TK454.4.M33A77 1991
621.382-dc20
91-21458
CIP
Contents
Foreword
xiii
Preface
xvii
Chapter 1
Introduction
1.1 Scope
1.2
Chapter 2
2.1
Introduction
2.2 The Electromagnetic Environment
2.2.1
2.2.2
2.2.3
2.2.4
7
7
Introduction, 7
Electromagnetic interference (EMf), 8
TEMPEST, 8
Electromagnetic pulse (EMP), 9
10
10
2.4.1 Introduction, 10
2.4.2 Shielding of anechoic facilities, 10
2.5
2.6
Chapter 3
3.1
3.2
Conclusions
References
Shielding Theory
Introduction
Shielding Effectiveness
11
11
13
13
15
3.2.1 Introduction, 15
vi
Contents
3.2.2
3.2.3
3.2.4
3.2.5
3.2.6
Reflection, 16
Absorption, 18
Internal reflection, factor B, 18
Total shielding effectiveness, 20
Performance degradation, 20
Introduction, 26
Welded Seams, 26
Clamped seams, 26
Single-shield seams, 30
3.5 Conclusions
3.6 References
Chapter 4
25
26
33
34
35
4.1 Introduction
4.2 Zinc/Galvanized Steel Modular Shielded Enclosures
35
36
4.2.1
4.2.2
4.2.3
4.2.4
Introduction, 36
System description, 36
Typical performance, 40
Procurement specifications, 40
40
4.3.1 Description, 40
4.3.2 Procurement specification, 43
4.4
43
4.4.1 Description, 43
4.4.2 Procurement Specification, 44
44
Introduction, 44
Nonferrous NMR enclosures, 44
The Lindsay system, 46
Bolt-together wooden frame system, 50
Low-performance clamp-up shielding System, 50
51
51
4.8
4.9
53
Chapter 5
5.1
Performance Specifications
References
52
55
55
5.1.1 Scope, 55
5.1.2 Defining the shielded volume, 55
5.1.3 Shield materials, 56
57
64
Contents
vii
5.3.4
5.3.5
5.3.6
5.3.7
5.3.8
5.4 Penetrations
5.5 Quality Control Recommendations
5.6 Shielding Effectiveness Performance
5.7 Sample Procurement Specifications
5.8 Conclusions and Recommendations
5.9 References
Chapter 6
Architectural Shielding
6.1 Introduction
6.2 Critical Considerations in Architectural Shielding
6.3 Aluminum Foil Shielding
6.3.1
6.3.2
6.3.3
6.3.4
6.3.5
6.3.6
79
81
Description, 81
Performance, 82
Material description, 82
Installation procedures, 82
Procurement Specification, 89
75
75
76
Description, 79
Installation, 79
Performance, 80
Recommended Procurement Specifications, 81
75
Introduction, 76
Shielding material, 77
Joining methods, 77
Installation procedures, 77
Shielded enclosure performance, 78
Procurement specification, 78
72
72
72
73
73
73
83
Introduction 83
Theory of operation, 86
Installation procedures, 87
Typical performance, 89
Procurement Specification, 89
89
6.7. 1 Introduction, 89
6.7.2 Description of the INSTAR shielding system, 90
6.7.3 Copper Screen System, 91
91
Introduction, 91
Aluminum/Polyethylene material, 92
Nonwoven shielding materials, 92
Woven shielding materials, 93
Conductive copper paint, 93
75
viii
Contents
6.9.1 Introduction, 94
6.9.2 Shielding of existing structure, 94
6.9.3 Decorative treatment of interior walls, 96
6.10 References
Chapter 7
7.1
Doors
97
99
99
99
100
7.4
118
7.5
Piping
121
7.6
126
7.8
130
7.9 References
Chapter 8
Electrical Filters
8.1 Introduction
8.2 Fitter Theory
130
131
131
131
8.3
Filter Characteristics
8.3.1 Introduction, 133
8.3.2 Frequency characteristic, 134
8.3.3 Impedance levels, 134
133
ix
Contents
8.3.4
8.3.5
8.3.6
8.3.7
8.3.8
8.3.9
135
8.6
8.7
8.8
8.9
Chapter 9
Communication Filters
Data Line Filters (Computers)
Control Line Filters
Reference
9.1 Introduction
9.2 Performance Specification Review
9.2.1
9.2.2
9.2.3
9.2.4
9.2.5
9.2.6
137
Introduction, 137
Description of available configurations, 137
Duo-shield electromagnetic filters, 137
Procurement specification, 140
140
141
141
142
143
143
144
Introduction, 144
MIL-STD-285, 144
NSA 65-6, 145
NSA 73-2A, 145
IEEE 299, 146
Other specifications, 147
147
9.5
Introduction, 149
Interpretation of text specifications, 149
Testing Considerations, 151
Accuracy of measurements, 154
Data presentation, 154
Common testing problems, 155
Recommended shielding effectiveness test specification, 156
Seam Leak Testing (SELDS)
9.5. I Introduction, 156
9.5.2 Principles of operation, 157
9.5.3 Recommended use, 157
149
9.4.1
9.4.2
9.4.3
9.4.4
9.4.5
9.4.6
9.4.7
156
158
159
159
Contents
Chapter 10
10.1
10.2
Introduction
Grounding Principles
10.2.1
10.2.2
10.2.3
10.2.4
161
161
161
Introduction, 161
Fault protection, 161
Enclosure isolat ion, 163
Grounding of signal references, 163
164
165
Design Checklists
Chapter 11
11.1 Introduction
11.2 Checklist for Modular Shielding
11.2.1
11.2.2
11.2.3
11.2.4
11.2.5
11.3
177
Introduction, 177
Architectural checklist, 177
Electrical checklist, 178
Mechanical checklist, 178
Shielding checklist, 178
Appendix A
A-I
A-4
174
Introduction, 174
Architectural checklist, 174
Electrical checklist, 175
Mechanical checklist, 175
Shielding checklist, 176
169
169
Introduction, 169
Architectural considerations, 169
Electrical considerations, 170
Mechanical considerations, 171
Shielding considerations, 171
169
179
179
180
A-5
190
Contents
xi
198
203
209
215
Appendix B
Appendix C
Index
212
Selected Bibliography
217
219
Foreword
As microcircuit technology has evolved, integrated circuits (ICs) have continued to increase in complexity and capability. Individual ICs can now process enormous amounts
of information in microseconds. By combining the capabilities of several ICs, electronic
devices and machines playing vital roles in medicine, finance, manufacturing, and national defense have been realized. These roles cannot be jeopardized either by upset or
damage from natural and manmade electrical signals. Unfortunately, the same technology that achieves high speed, high density processing capabilities tends to exhibit
heightened sensitivities to the extraneous voltages and currents from electromagnetic
fields, lightning, and switching transients. Consequently, there are many situations
where electronic equipment must be electromagnetically isolated from its surroundings.
For example, nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (NMRI) machines can be perturbed
by stray magnetic fields, and many patient monitoring instruments are upset by electrical transients. Computers are often damaged by lightning transients or they experience
data errors from strong radiated RF fields. Many other signal processors must be isolated from these effects as well as from others, and the electromagnetically shielded
room is an essential ingredient of the protection.
Defense and diplomatic information is often highly classified and must be protected against unauthorized interception. Communications and data processing centers
handling classified information must conform to TEMPEST requirements; these requirements are often met by installing appropriate shields around the processing equipment.
The principles behind electromagnetic shields have been known for over 50 years.
Specially constructed modular rooms based on these principles have been commercially
available for approximately 40 years. In the last 20 years, however, numerous applications have arisen where the traditional rectangular, double-walled, free-standing room
will not suffice. Particularly in the last decade, the requirement to provide an adequately isolated volume has become an integral part of the design and construction
xiii
xiv
Foreword
of many buildings. The need for a facility-integrated shield means that architects and
engineers must become familiar with the design, specification, construction, and testing
of electromagnetically tight enclosures.
The design, construction, and test of shielded rooms has traditionally been left to
specialists in electromagnetic interference (EMI), electromagnetic pulse (EMP), and
TEMPEST. As the need for protection has broadened to encompass all electromagnetic
concerns and to protect facilities much more diverse than military installations and EMI
testing rooms, other engineering specialties have begun to address electromagnetic
shielding. The results have been mixed, ranging from extreme overdesign to installations that are said to be shielded, but the materials and construction of which violate
many fundamental principles of shielding. Architectural Electromagnetic Shielding
Handbook provides the responsible designer with an understandable exposition of the
basics of the various aspects of realizing an effective shield: selecting a material appropriate for the application; joining the materials so that effective attenuation of electromagnetic fields is obtained; properly treating all necessary penetrations for power,
communications, HVAC, and personnel access; proper grounding; and correct testing to
verify that performance requirements are met.
The modular room is fabricated at the factory and erected at the designated location by factory personnel or specially trained installers. The architectural shield, i.e.,
one that is tailored to fit the structural constraints and user needs of a specific building,
however, must be constructed on site by normal building trades personnel who often are
unskilled in the unique assembly techniques required for seams, doors, and penetrations, or who do not appreciate the special care required, as for example, when erecting
interior finish walls of shielded rooms or installing air conditioning ducts. Therefore,
detailed instructions must be given, special construction must be detailed, training must
be conducted, and careful onsite inspection provided. Each of these needs is addressed
in this handbook.
As construction proceeds, carefully controlled tests of shield perfomance are required. Specialized test equipment not normally owned by construction companies must
be used; the equipment must be operated by test personnel who are well versed in the
nuances of radiated electromagnetic field measurements. Otherwise, test results can be
meaningless, potentially leading to costly overruns or to an ineffectively shielded installation. The tests must be performed at the time the basic shield is complete and again
upon completion of the shielded facility.
An essential element of the architectural design package for a facility is the
specification detailing construction and performance requirements. For a shielded facility, the specification must reflect the nature of the equipment or system to be protected.
For example, an EMP shield around a large communications complex will possess different requirements from the shield required around an operating room in a hospital.
The design specification must accommodate such differences. The specification must
be technically realistic, easily interpreted by the construction contractor, and legally
enforceable.
This handbook addresses the shielding needs of a wide range of facilities. It is
intended to assist architects and engineers in the design and specification of electromagnetically shielding rooms, whether encompassing only a small region inside the
building or the entire structure. It provides guidance in the unique assembly and testing
Foreword
xv
techniques to achieve and verify the required electromagnetic isolation of the volume.
Sample specifications are provided which may be tailored to fit a variety of construction situations.
Hugh
w. Denny, ~E.
Preface
About ten years ago while writing procurement specifications for a number of shielded
radio frequency anechoic test chambers I became aware of the lack of published information on architectural electromagnetic shielding systems. This book was written to
fill that gap and I believe it is the first single-volume text covering all aspects of that
subject.
The purpose of the handbook is to provide the practicing architect/engineer with a
single source of information on electromagnetic shielding. Included are chapters on the
need for shielding, basic shielding theory, and complete descriptions of the three major
types of commercial shielding. Extensive supporting information on penetrations, such
as doors, vents, piping, and electromagnetic filters is provided for each type of shielding. Performance specifications and methods of testing necessary to prove performance
are detailed. Finally, a set of design checklists is provided for the three most common
forms of shielding so that the architect/engineer can be sure he has covered all aspects
of the shielded enclosure installation.
In Appendix A, suggested specifications are provided to aid the architect/engineer
with formulating a complete shielded facility specification. These are arranged in the
same order as the chapters that describe the various forms of shielding, supporting
hardware, and services.
This material was organized by the author who is solely responsible for all technical information included in the handbook. The presentation is made as factual as
possible and treats all shielding products in a fair and unbiased manner. For specific
products, services, and commercial shielding information, the reader is referred to Appendix B. This appendix describes an industry annual publication which lists most of
the currently active shielding suppliers and installers in the United States as well as
some overseas.
xvii
xviii
Preface
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
The author wishes to thank his wife, Valda, 'for her unending support during the four
years it took to complete this project. She was a great help in turning my long rambling
sentences into organized, readable material. Jeff Eckert was very helpful, and I thank
him for finding a publisher willing to put this handbook into print. Hugh Denny made a
series of excellent recommendations, most of which I incorporated into the technical
presentations and thus improved the professionalism of the book. I also wish to thank
my many work associates who made helpful suggestions, especially Tom Witkowski for
suggesting the arrangement of the appendices. Finally, my thanks to the staff of the
IEEE Press who worked with me in a very professional manner throughout the final
preparations and publication of this handbook.
POWAY, CA
Leland H. Hemming
CHAPTER 1
Introduction
1.1 SCOPE
The use of radio frequency shielded enclosures has become quite common in our increasingly electromagnetically crowded environment. Until recently, the design, manufacture, and installation of shielding was the province of a handful of specialty
contractors. Two basic systems were developed by the shielding industry: the modular
or clamp-up enclosure, and the welded structural steel enclosure, with the latter being
built in place. Only a few attempts at other types of shielding have been made. The
most notable was the aluminum foil system developed by the National Security Agency
as described in their detailed specification NSA 73-2A. However, the need for shielding has become so widespread that a number of companies have developed a variety of
single-skin shielded enclosures.
The purpose of this handbook is to provide architectural and facility engineering
personnel with the necessary information which will permit them to make informed
decisions on the different types of shielding and how to properly specify them sufficiently so that the constructed shield performs its intended purpose. As will become
clear from the text, the completed enclosure must be properly tested to ensure compliance with the desired level of performance. A second purpose is to point out the performance differences between the various shielding systems so that intelligent choices
are possible. In the past, it has been common practice by the shield-buying community
to request the highest performance specifications available, thus ensuring a safe decision, but in many instances, paying excessively for protection they did not need. This
handbook gives the shielding buyer a survey of the systems available, so that he can
select the best system for his particular application.
The next two chapters are introductory in that they establish what shielding is and
how it is used to control electromagnetic interference. The first part of the "Theory"
section has been provided to help bridge the gap between the layman's knowledge of
electricity and the deeper understanding necessary to appreciate how an electromagnetic
Chapter 1
Introduction
shield performs its function. It is not the purpose of this book to teach shielding design,
but rather how to select from existing systems the one best suited for the job at hand.
The next three chapters deal with shielded enclosures, first. those that are provided
by the speciality shielding contractor, and then those that are built into the structure of
a building. This is not an arbitrary selection, but is based on the current practices in the
shielding industry. Currently, the most common shielding systems provided by the established shielding manufacturers are prefabricated modular or "clamped-up" rooms
and welded enclosures which are built on site. These products have evolved with time,
and are proven systems available from a number of large and small companies worldwide. A newer class of shielded enclosure is the one that is built into the structure, i.e.,
within the walls of a building. This later class has been grouped in Chapter 6 under the
heading of "Architectural Shielding." Several variations of these shielding systems are
described. These are usually installed by a general contractor either as described by the
drawings or by subcontracting to a specialty contractor. The key to success in these
installations is how well they are detailed in the building drawings. Since the shielding
is built in, it must be done right the first time because retrofitting in the field is
extremely costly and time consuming. If the information given in this handbook is carefully considered and implemented, it will successfully aid those who have the responsibility to implement shielding in their facilities or design/specify them for a client.
The selection of the basic enclosure is very important to the overall performance of
the facility, but a shield is only as good as the treatment of the penetrations through it.
The next two chapters discuss how the designer selects methods of providing doors,
vents, piping, power, communications, and security to a shielded enclosure. Just how
badly an improperly installed penetration can degrade an enclosure is illustrated in the
theory section.
Another very important requirement is that of testing the facility while in the process of construction and finally on completion. The latter is absolutely essential. After
all trades have completed their work, the shielded enclosure must be tested to the applicable shielding effectiveness specifications. Chapter 9 details the common specifications, how to use them effectively, and how to write a test plan that will ensure that the
completed facility will perform its intended function. Drawing on the theory section,
each type of test is described, along with the common problems encountered in field
testing.
Accomplishing an acceptable grounding system for a shielded enclosure is often a
problem in the field. Signal security and electrical safety requirements do not always
appear to be compatible. Using MIL-HB-419A as a guide, guidelines are given on how
the various types of grounds can be designed to obtain a harmonious installation, one
which is safe for personnel and also meets the needs of the security community. Also
refer to MIL-HB-232 for grounding information.
The last chapter provides a series of design checklists for the. three types of
shielded enclosures, so the A&E can draw a complete enclosure specification together
for the various forms of shielding.
A number of appendices is provided for reference, such as a reference to an annual
directory that details shielding manufacturers, installers, designers, and consultants.
A large part of the material for this handbook was drawn from MIL-HB-419A,
which is entitled "Grounding, Bonding, and Shielding for Electronic Equipments and
Section 1.2
Facilities." This handbook is recommended reading for all who are concerned with
large industrial/government facilities. It is also useful for designing or specifying a
single room.
Ambient Level. Those levels of radiated and conducted energy existing at a specified
location and time when a test sample is deenergized. Atmospheric noise signals, both
desired and undesired, from other sources and the internal noise level of the measuring instruments all contribute to the "ambient level."
Antenna. A device employed as a means for radiating or receiving electromagnetic
energy.
Aperture. An opening in a shield through which electromagnetic energy passes.
Attenuation. A general term used to denote a decrease in magnitude of power or field
strength in transmission from one point to another caused by such factors as absorption, reflection, scattering, and dispersion. It may be expressed as a power ratio or by
decibels.
Bond. The electrical connection between two metallic surfaces established to provide a
low-resistance path between them.
Bonding. The process of establishing the required degree of electrical continuity between the conductive surfaces to be joined.
Conductive Interference. Undesired signals that enter or leave an equipment along a
conductive (wire or metallic) path.
Coupling. Energy transfer between circuits, equipments, or systems.
Coupling, Free-Space. Energy transfer via electromagnetic fields not in a conductor.
Cutoff Frequency. The frequency below which electromagnetic energy will not propagate readily in a waveguide.
dB. Decibel, a unit of voltage or power ratio. Defined as follows:
dB = 10 log P'21P 1 for power or
dB
= 20 log V2IVI
for voltage.
HdB" is commonly used to specify shielding effectiveness since very large differences in the input/output fields are generally required by the shielding specification.
Chapter I
Introduction
Specifications on the order of 60-100 dB are typical. This means that if one watt of
power impinges on the shield, then only one millionth to one ten trillionth of a watt
exits on the other side.
Degradation. A decrease in the quality of a desired signal (i.e., decrease in the signalto-noise ratio or an increase in distortion), or an undesired change in the operational
performance of equipment as the result of interference.
Earth Electrode System. A network of electrically interconnected rods, plates, mats,
or grids installed for the purpose of establishing a low-resistance contact with earth.
The design objective for resistance to earth of this subsystem should not exceed
10 O.
Electric Field. A vector field about a charged body. Its strength at any point is the
force which would be exerted on a unit positive charge at that point.
Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC). The capability of equipment or systems to be
operated in their intended operational environment at designed levels of efficiency
without causing or receiving degradation owing to unintentional electromagnetic interference. Electromagnetic compatibility is the result of an engineering planning process applied during the life cycle of the equipment. The process involves careful
considerations of frequency allocation, design, procurement, production, site selection, installation, operation, and maintenance.
Electromagnetic Interference (EMI). Any conducted, radiated, or induced voltage
which degrades, obstructs, or repeatedly interrupts the desired performance of electronic equipment.
Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP). A large impulsive-type electromagnetic wave generated by nuclear or chemical explosions.
Facility. A building or other structure, either fixed or transportable in nature, with its
utilities, ground networks, and electrical supporting structures.
Far Field. The region of the field of an antenna where the radiation field predominates, and where the angular field distribution is essentially independent of the distance from the antenna. A variety of guidelines is used; for some shielding
calculations, 1/6th of a wavelength has been found useful.
Fault. An unintentional short circuit or partial short circuit (usually of a power circuit)
between energized conductors or between an energized conductor and ground.
Field Strength. A general term that means the magnitude of the electric field vector
(in volts per meter) or the magnitude of the magnetic field vector (in ampere-turns
per meter). As used in the field of EMC/EMI, the term "field strength" shall be
applied only to measurements made in the far field and shall be abbreviated as FS.
For measurements made in the near field, the term electric field strength" (EFS) or
"magnetic field strength" (MFS) shall be used, according to whether the resultant
electric or magnetic field, respectively, is measured.
Filter. A device for use on power or signal lines, specifically designed to pass only
selected frequencies and to attenuate substantially all other frequencies.
Ground. The electrical connection to earth through an earth electrode subsystem. This
connection is extended throughout the facility via the facility ground system, consisting of the signal reference subsystem, the fault protection subsystem, and the lightning protection subsystem. These different systems are detailed in the following
chapters.
Magnetic Field. A vector field produced by a continuous flow of charge.
Multipoint Ground. More than one path to ground.
44
Section 1.2
National Electrical Code'", (NEC). A standard governing the use of electrical wire,
cable, and fixtures installed in buildings.
Near Field. The region of the field immediately surrounding an antenna where the
inductive and capacitive fields predominate. In this region, the angular distribution of
the field varies with distance from the antenna.
Neutral. The ac power system conductor which is intentionally grounded on the supply
side of the service disconnecting means. The neutral provides a current return path
for ac power currents, whereas the ground (or green) should not, except during fault
conditions.
Penetration. The passage through a partition or wall of an equipment or enclosure by a
wire, cable, pipe, or other conductive object.
Plane Wave. An electromagnetic wave which predominates in the far-field region of an
antenna, and with a wavefront which is essentially a flat plane. In free space, the
characteristic impedance of a plane wave is 377 O.
Radiation. The emission and propagation of electromagnetic energy through space.
Radiation Resistance. The resistance which, if inserted in place of an antenna, would
consume the same amount of power that is radiated by the antenna.
Radio Frequency Interference (RFI). Synonymous with electromagnetic interference.
RF-Tight. Offering a high degree of electromagnetic shielding effectiveness.
Reflection Loss. The portion of the transition loss, expressed in decibels, that is due to
the reflection of power at a barrier or shield. Reflection loss is determined by the
magnitude of the wave impedance inside the barrier relative to the wave impedance
in the propagation medium outside the barrier.
Shield. A housing, screen, or cover which substantially reduces the coupling of electric
and magnetic fields into or out of circuits or prevents the accidental contact of objects
or persons with parts or components operating at hazardous voltage levels.
Shielding Effectiveness. A measure of the reduction or attenuation in the electromagnetic field strength at a point in space caused by the insertion of a shield between the
source and that point.
Shielded Enclosure. An area (box, room, or building) specifically designed to attenuate electromagnetic radiation, or electromagnetic radiation and acoustical emanations, originating either inside or outside the area. Necessary openings in shielded
enclosures, such as doors, air vents, and electrical feedthroughs, are specially designed to maintain this attenuat ion.
Signal Reference Subsystem. This subsystem provides the reference points for all signal grounding to control static charges, noise, and interference. It may consist of any
one or a combination of the lower frequency network, higher frequency network, or
hybrid signal reference network.
TEMPEST. A code word (not an acronym) which encompasses the government!
industrial program for controlling the emissions from systems processing classified
data. Individual equipment may be "TEMPESTED" or commercial equipment may
be placed in shielded enclosures.
Wave Impedance. The ratio of the electric field strength to the magnetic field strength
at the point of observation.
Wavelength. The ratio of C, the speed of light, to F, the frequency. Wavelength
(ft) = 984/F (MHz).
CHAPTER 2
2.1 INTRODUCTION
The need for shielding has evolved with radio communications from the very beginning, but since World War II, the need has become critical because of the tremendous
growth of electronic devices in the home, office, and factory.
Today, shielding against EMI is being practiced by government, military, private
industry, medical facilities, and R&D laboratories. Shielding serves two basic functions:
that of preventing interference and preventing electronic eavesdropping. The type of
shielding required is a function of the purpose or use of the equipment within the
shield. High-performance shielding is required where sensitive equipment must be protected from a nearby high-power radar. But only moderate shielding may be required to
prevent eavesdropping on classified processing of data on a commercial computer. The
exact degree of shielding required is a function of many variables, among which are the
type of equipment involved, the distance between equipments, and the sensitivity of the
information being processed. In order to gain some insight into the type of situations
where shielding may be in order, the following sections outline the nature of electromagnetic interference, how it is generated, and how it reaches the equipment that may
require shielding.
Chapter 2
8
TABLE 2-1
Source
Circuit Breaker Cam Contacts
Command Programmer
Signal lines
Power lines
Computer Logic Box
Corona
Fluorescent Lamps
Heater Circuits (Contact Cycling)
Latching Contactor
Motor Armatures
Mercury Arc Lamps
Power Controller
Power Supply Switching Circuit
Power Transfer Controller
Vacuum Cleaner
10-20 MHz
50
50
50
50
0.1-25 MHz
1-25 MHz
kHz-20 MHz
0.1-10 MHz
0.1-3 MHz
kHz-25 MHz
kHz-25 MHz
2-4 MHz
0.1-1.0 MHz
2-15 kHz
0.5-25 MHz
kHz-25 MHz
0.1-1.0 MHz
ning, electromagnetic pulse, and finally, sensitive eavesdropping receivers. Knowing the
power levels and locations of interfering sources, a shielding effectiveness profile can
be determined versus frequency and type of field for a given enclosure. In a like manner, knowing the sources of emissions from a data processing system and the possible
location and sensitivity of a listening receiver, the amount of shielding effectiveness
required for a given TEMPEST enclosure can be determined. In order to have some
understanding of what is involved, consider the following.
2.2.3 TEMPEST
Electronic eavesdropping on classified and sensitive information both in the defense and
general industry has, in recent years, become a real-world problem. As a result, the
Section 2.2
o
-10
-20
-30
-40
-50
-60
-70
-80
-90
-100
10 1 10 2 103 10 4 10 5
10 6 10 7 108 10 9 10 10
Frequency (Hz)
10
Chapter 2
ence with the equipment within the enclosure. All leads must be especially designed to
prevent magnetic coupled energy from reaching the equipment via the power lines or
other conducted services. For a detailed description of the EMP problem, refer to [1,
Sect. 10].
Section 2.6
Reference
II
anechoic material is mounted to the interior surfaces of the chamber generally using
adhesives. The design of the geometry of the chamber and the types and locations of the
anechoic material are the purview of the design specialist, and it is suggested that if an
anechoic design requirement is needed, then an appropriate specialist should be enlisted
to perform the design.
Generally, the layout of the various services, lights, ventilation, power, and fire
protection require special consideration over and above the normal shielded enclosure
requirements.
2.5 CONCLUSIONS
Once the shielding effectiveness requirements have been defined either by edict or by
analysis, the latter being preferred since the cost of shielding is directly a function of
the amount and type of attenuation required, the following sections of this handbook
can be utilized to design, specify, install, and test a cost-effective shielding system.
2.6 REFERENCE
[1] USAF Handbookfor the Design and Construction of HEMP/TEMPEST Shielded Facilities, Dec. 1986.
CHAPTER 3
Shielding Theory
3.1 INTRODUCTION
When a shield encloses an EM source, as shown in Fig. 3-1, the field strength outside
the shield will be reduced. When the shield is used to enclose a sensitive (susceptible)
assembly located near an external EM source, the field strength inside the enclosure is
reduced substantially. Three types of electromagnetic fields exist, each of these act differently depending on the nature of the shielding material present. Magnetic shielding
below 100 kHz is difficult to achieve and requires very thick ferrous shields or high
permeability materials. Electric field shielding is relatively easy in that a thin metallic
barrier will normally suffice. Plane wave or far-field shielding is mainly a function of
maintaining an RF tight skin. All penetrations such as doors, vents, filters, and piping
must be carefully designed and constructed to maintain the RF-tight requirements.
The purpose of RF shielding is to confine or to prevent radiated energy from entering or exiting an enclosure. The mechanism of this radiated interference is by means
of electromagnetic coupling. Two forms of coupling take place, near and far field, the
difference being the distance between the circuits. The near field can be subdivided into
inductive and capacitive or low- and high-impedance coupling, according to the nature
of the electromagnetic field. In inductive coupling, a magnetic field linking the susceptible device is set up by the interfering source. In capacitive coupling, the electric field
transfers energy between the two circuits. In the far field, radiation of energy byelectromagnetic waves is the principle coupling mechanism.
When two or more wires or other conductors are located near each other, currents
and voltages on one wire will be inductively and capacitively coupled to the other
wires. The wire acting as the interference source for this near-field coupling may be any
conductor such as a high-level signal line, an ac power line, a control line, or even a
lightning downconductor. The currents or voltages induced into the other wires can fur-
13
14
Chapter 3
1.0
Shielding Theory
-t------~
Electric
Field
Strength
0.01 -
--------~
ther be conductively coupled into yet other circuits. In the far field, coupling is
achieved by radiation. The conductor does not have to be specifically designed to radiate energy; it may be any current-carrying conductor, i.e., a signal line, a power line, or
even a ground lead.
The equations defining these coupling modes are expressed as a sum of three
terms. Each term is inversely proportional to a power of the distance r from the currentcarrying conductor. These power terms of l/r, l/r 2 and l/r 3 determine the nature of the
field, as illustrated in Fig. 3-2. Close to the conductor (near field), the l/r and l/r
components dominate, and the electromagnetic energy oscillates between the space surrounding the conductor and the conductor itself; zero average energy is propagated by
the near-field terms.
In the far field, the I/r term dominates, and the energy escapes from the conductor
(antenna) into free space. This mechanism of radiation occurs as the frequency is raised
and the current in the wire cannot reverse as fast as the field is built up, resulting in the
field being released from the vicinity of the wire and propagating outward. On the
receiving end, the reverse occurs, i.e., the incoming wave induces charges in the conductor (antenna), and a current is created. The strength of this field is a function of the
distance from the radiating wire, the efficiency of the radiating wire as an antenna, and
the amplitude and frequency of the signal on the radiating wire. The efficiency is a
function of the wire's length in wavelengths. Wires on the order of a quarter wavelength
make excellent antennas; those less than one hundredth wavelength are poor radiators.
Section 3.2
15
Shielding Effectiveness
Dipole
-...t
Near -Zone
Region
1',,--// '
Wave
Motion--+-
l--
---+-
J' "-
1\0 -
Far-Zon e
Region
discontinuity of the air-metal boundary. This mechanism does not require a par-
Inside of Enclosure
Att enuated
Incident
Wave
Outs ide World
..........
16
Chapter 3
Shielding Theory
= R + A + B.
(3-1)
3.2.2 Reflection
The reflection loss depends not only on the surface impedance of the shield, which is
given by
Z,
= UWJl
(a
(3-2)
but also upon the wave impedance Zw, which is a function of the type of source (electric or magnetic) and the distance from the source to the shield. In general, the singlebarrier reflection loss R is given by
(3-3)
For metallic shields, and for partially conductive materials below microwave frequencies, weo. For this condition, formulas have been developed for the reflection
loss as a function of the distance D (cm) from the source to the shield (point sources are
assumed). For plane waves, the impedance is a constant 377 0, so D does not appear in
the formula for R.
For a low-impedance (magnetic field) source,
R
= 20
+ 0.0535D
iffJr/~r)112
+ 0.354} dB.
(3-4)
(3-5)
3/(J,)
I12
D] dB.
(3-6)
Section 3.2
17
Shielding Effectiveness
Largest Gap Dimensions g in Inch es
140
20 15
10
2 1.5
140
120
cD
"C
100
100
80
80
60
60
40
40
20
20
.s
c
.9
"c
Cll
o
300 MHz 500
1 GHz
2
3
5
7 10 GHz
Radio Frequency
20
30
60
where
J
fo
fe
= gap
=
=
in inches.
RL
= 27//g dB*.
These approximat ions only hold when the impinging field is <<f...
(3-8)
18
Chapter 3
Shielding Theory
RL == 27l1g - 20 log(n)
(3-9)
where n is the number of cells within a square wavelength or frame of the vent, whichever is smaller.
3.2.3 Absorption
Because absorption loss occurs after the wave has entered the shield material, and because the impedance of the shield material governs the EIH ratio, the absorption loss is
independent of the type of wave (electric or magnetic) that struck the shield. The absorption loss is
A == 1.314 (f.
IJ.r O"r)112
d dB
(3-10)
where
Table 3-1 gives the values of Or' Jlr ' and A for various metals. Values of u,> > I
for shield materials are only obtained up to several hundred kilohertz. Beyond 500 kHz,
u, == I for the materials listed in the table . The last columns of the table give the
absorption loss at 150 kHz for both I mm and I mil (0.001 in.) thick sheets for the
listed materials. The absorption loss for other thicknesses can be calculated by simply
multiplying by the shield thickness in millimeters or mils.
Table 3-2 provides further insight into how absorption of electromagnetic energy
can provide shielding protection. Note that only iron provides any degree of protection at the lower frequencies, whereas all of the materials provide high losses above
100 MHz .
Section 3.2
19
Shielding Effectiveness
Relative
Conductivity (Or)
Silver
Copper, annealed
Copper, hard-drawn
Gold
Aluminum
Magnesium
Zinc
Brass
Cadmium
Nickel
Phosphor-bronze
Iron
Tin
Steel, SAE 1045
Beryllium
Lead
Hypernick
Monel
Mu-metal
Permalloy
Steel, stainless
Metshield
1.05
1.00
0.97
0.70
0.61
0.38
0.29
0.26
0.23
0.20
0.18
0.17
0.15
0.10
0.10
0.08
0.06
0.04
0.03
0.03
0.02
0.01
Relative
Permeability (J,tr)
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1000
1
1000
1
I
80000
I
80000
80000
1000
60 000
1.32
1.29
1.26
1.08
1.01
0.79
0.70
0.66
0.62
0.58
0.55
16.90
0.50
12.90
0.41
0.36
88.50*
0.26
63.20*
63.20*
5.70
75.00*
*Assuming that the material is not magnetic flux saturated. Taken from MIL-HB-419A.
26 Gauge Iron
(dB)
(Pr)
1000
1000
1000
1000
700
500
400
100
50
10
1
5.2
21.6
68.4
265.2
572
1532
1680
2168
4844
2656
2160
3 oziSF Copper
(dB)
0.010 in.
Aluminum Foil
(dB)
0.1
0.4
1.3
5.6
13.1
41.6
50.9
131.0
416
509
1314
0.2
0.75
2.5
10.0
25.8
81.25
99.25
257.5
812.5
992.5
2575.0
required, then even a single-layer 26 gauge iron will provide greater than 15 dB of
absorption loss down to 1 kHz. Thus, for practical purposes, only the reflection and
absorption losses need be calculated in most shielding situations.
20
Chapter 3
Shielding Theory
(8-11 )
Leakage effects may be identified as due to one or more of the following situations
which exist in any practical, real-world shield.
Seams
Mating Members
Screws
Crimps
Welds
Brazes
Silver Solder
Soft Solder
Doors
Vents
Ventilation
Air-Conditioning
Heating
...
60 1
401
30
80
1001
=-:
100 Hz
.\f4 1:;7'
II
10 kHz
30
I,Q /
I'
C:><;:'
7 <.............
1"""
1""""<:/
l : t II
1><
I >1
I -,
10 MHz
f"~
100 kHz
300
1 MHz
30
t!:>:=(i~f
10 MHz
I'>~(\,I::?" .......
E><"
E><:
~-!
300
10 GHz
30
20
I
1 GHz
40
r-- .....
v-----rI-=:::::::
lX'" ...... 60
r---- "'r
I~
80
t.....,
1100
200
} I 220
240
1260
280
IV vv " "'I
,"""l
I _"!
I ==::::::
!I
IJ
I I
I!
.f I
I : -
1 GHz
1,
I ,ll!
, ..........
100 MHz
........... c:
t\"":"!/1
II
I I
300
I I ! I "1'
100 MHz
~'1"""'""ooc::>'
I I
II
JI I
30
t>
/l""'"ec::
T""'-d I
"1"""<:
II/If
fE,
1 MHz
r'~"'7:(\~::::;o::'5r,.>::\\I:.;;;',-
=l"'- .......--~.......
I \fT
r =----r=
I I
I'
30
1:.;;;'<
1:><.
7'
_,< / I
1"'-.......
1/
~":""~ri'
c;_
l'=~AV~
11:"
10 kHz
r.. . . . . .
r!aq[D'/.21""'oc::
T""~rl
3001kHz
_A'\,~r?<
I .. _. . .;p.......-
Copper
=11 and J,LJ
l""!"-cC:t),,,.,............
I?-<! "I..............
200
-T
l"":<~'Rf"""-......:
F"........
I~<~,i
220
~.....::/C"Jl'"........
1........... ..:..:,g'1
300~\\
1 kHz
F""".........
Re-~'HI
~0q,
T"-<::::
26011?'.:c".....................
280 P'~,;
30
N
N
F"...ooc::
.......
40 I
sr==;:
100 Hz
mc=:::
o Hz
r=;;::;::
10
30
.....' . r
201
A\~<
t:""i
300
...-=::
Iq..T- <it
60
. _j;::>
1
I
~,I
801
1001
I1 and
c op per
ce;:;
1"""< ~; x 1""".......
.... J1
7<
1/
~.......'-'
I _ .,(,,1::;;7<
I i(! 7<
1">.......
I
7'
et==::
10 kHz
z'C""':
30
75T""'CI:
"'F"C":
Jf
_~ :;;'
-e=::
<
~.r_
10 MHz
30
ttl
I,,'
I',.c=:
,
300
YY
,
1 GHz
rw
,
3
,
10 GHz
60
30
20
"I 40
"!I'I
80
.100
1 200
11220
1 240
1260
1 280
1-"
><1"
I _w I
- .. =1------ I
TO!
III'"
I""?I'I'~
II
I I
t:! I
I:
1 GHz
F..><::.....c= r =s-
'
100 MHz
I~'~.r
('f\:;:>".c=
h"""CI="""'
f> _~
~Pv
I'
I I
300
I I! I
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t.
J'
::::;;a'"..c:~ I~
I=:><::
'!:P~~)}>..c:
I '>
.r=:
1 MHz
..c: I H,.r::Ar\:;;p,c
~I
II
I .:a },,'1
__ II
r:><: r SIC'
"
100 MHz
r.............
30
P"A::
:Y I
_til.
II
10 MHz
P':c>',1>'cc::
I cr." I
-17'
1':c:::if"'"ee::
...,J".="-..J I
II,'
I:I!:I
1 MHz
........-
1 kHz
et:=:::
dq
I I
I <;_
6:' I
~ ........~
15<. I
I ><
1"""':"::
l""':.C<>"
30
I~-:>'I
10 kHz
I=""""-........
1::::::"'<"1
1"< ~1Jrt"'-........
,=
1 kHz
F'!'-cC:~'hl
220 ~"..L~n1'"........
2601>""
30
1~
160
.~
30
c--
10Hz
.1
2a'AH
100 Hz
I:> ..........
I:;
40
1~'/
10 kHz
.'
Y.
o:fC'
I,
II
I I
...h ,
I"
: I
10 kHz
C).
I!
be /
! I
Ail?
'C
'::P"'fT
::;a
1 MHz
10 MHz
, I
'fG
'T
30
"AP-
300
".....
' I
oj
II
1 GHz
I A AA1
I PI.'''::::aoo4
~ /
I!'
1'1
r
III
1 GHz
300
~o:c::l
100 MHz
::;pa~1
:::'
........ cc:::: I
t;j 1/
III
100 MHz
o",;~"J.I"
FI
:""b.....c:S"
L: Pia'
9P::::>4Pli."~""":
"
I!
II
I!
r-'~
.. .
"!:oio-""""T
:">
30
I!!I
10 MHz
~<:~;Pf:::::""o:c::
I b n -,'
-P1l'
~.
30
V,.-,
I I
j,q
I - , ".V
/I
J'bi'/
I'
':31
1/
1 MHz
II!~
30
kbi-.r7 L : I
I=""'-.......... I
I~
: I
J 1,"
a-fhes~ / I
I - --+::::
"I".c=
:; I
'
.,.
:;;;
,.. . . . . k
-1-
3001kHz
l.,q
,"~'/
;1
801
60 I "721'
100 I
~~ 120
~
2
>
~~
~
c
~ 1~
w
,$"'0<' -11-=
II
tcI
3001kHz
~b.-.?-<'/t=: .............
F' .......
.L'''i
- - .. OJ
~..........
100 Hz
2201=:-cllJrI F"".......
240 I ?"-.:e:
~:.:e:
I _----
260 1
280
30
10 GHz
30
20
40
60
80
(J)
.~
120 :
c~
1~ w~
.~
~O I>
, o
~r.4 AR"l1
.<
ro..
CD
~
.1M w
I 200
11220
II 240
1 260
I 280
() '7Q 100
I!
Chapter 3
24
Shielding Theory
TABLE 3-3
Basic Enclosure
Metal SE (dB)
60
70
80
90
100
110
120
Combined
Shielding SE'(dB)
76.8
76.8
76.8
76.8
76.8
76.8
76.8
58.8
66.7
72.2
75.1
76.1
76.7
76.8
= -20 log{I/[log(-
SFJ20)
+ 1/[Jog(-U20)]} dB.
(3-12)
Note that Eq. (3-12) coherently adds all leakage effects together. This is a worst
case since the phases may range from nearly all in phase (coherent at low frequencies)
to approaching random phase (incoherent at high frequencies). However, usually one or
a few leakages predominate so that a coherent worst case combination is justified.
Let us assume that the total leakage from a filter/connector panel, a vent, and a
door yield is a combined SE of 76.8 dB. When combined with a basic shield SE of
different values, the combined SE is shown in Table 3-3.
The above serves to demonstrate the importance of controlling leakages in shielded
enclosures.
3.3 lYPICAL SHIELDING MATERIALS
Shielding materials commonly used in the construction of shielded enclosures consist of
the following.
a. Plywood/particle board panels laminated on one or both sides with various
grades of galvanized sheet metal: commonly used for prefabricated enclosures.
Other metals, such as copper foil and metal screening, are also fabricated in a
similar manner.
b. Various thicknesses of sheet steel welded into place on a steel supporting structure.
c. Aluminum foil installed with contact adhesive.
d. Copper foil with a paper backing installed with contact adhesive.
e. Copper screening mounted on wooden studs and spot soldered.
Section 3.4
Seams
2S
3.4 SEAMS
3.4.1 Introduction
As was illustrated in Tables 3-2 and 3-3, penetrations in the shield represent the most
difficult challenge to the shielding installer. These are so important that separate chapters are provided for each type of major penetration. This section discusses the various
seams used in the construction of shielded enclosures.
The next most common RF seam is the clamped seam. Of these, the geometry illustrated in Fig. 3-13 is used by most manufacturers of shielded enclosures. This design is
called hats and flats, in that the part that is used to hold the nuts, or that is screwed
into, is a form of a hat channel, whereas the interior strapping is flat, with holes spaced
along for the heavy screws used in these installations. As will be explained in Chapter
4, the shielding performance of these systems is very sensitive to how well they are
installed. Two other forms of clamped seams are illustrated in Fig. 3-14. The manufacturer maintains that these are more reliable than the more common type in that the
materials used are resilient and are less sensitive to workmanship problems.
The clamped seam is assumed to provide a continuous metal-to-metal seal along
every seam in the enclosure. Any deviations from achieving this ideal concept provide a
source of leakage under one of the three field conditions. The most difficult to achieve,
in general, is the plane-wave shielding effectiveness. Gaps and cracks in the clamping
hardware are commonly sealed with bronze wool and metal shims on the inside of the
enclosure in order to meet the high end of the plane-wave shielding requirements.
N
0\
~'7'
(/)
c~
:c
~
~
W
Q)
.~
/ I }
"1
II
If
I I
p-'; ,
l: I
I I
I
~~
r---
JI
II
I {
I .........-: I ... _
A
I x ee"'::;;"f!l:
orHz
10
30
100 Hz
z::=r:
300
'
3
,
10 kHz
'
30
,
100 kHz
,
300
,
1 MHz
{I
{I
I I
100 MHz
,
10 MHz
,
30
L.J
-::J
,
300
II
I 200
I 220
I 240
I 260
I 280
10 GHz
40
60
30
I 20
iS.4nm I
-:r=
I
120
I 80
h",:>"1
(/)
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g'
:c
.~
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(/)
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140 ~
1100
>];.'
I }
I}
1 GHz
::* . . . .
1 GHz
I,'
I:
300
I e:.....?;..4
,
100 MHz
1""""'-:
30
1----- T-'
J>.......
10 MHz
1 kHz
~~~I=::::
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==z:
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l>~
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17"=-1'
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30
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I _tl'7'
601
80
100 r>-..r:',~
120
140
160
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160
I \
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3001kHz
180
200 I
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260 I
220 I
280 I
30
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co
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30
300
I...................
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I 1 mil
30
10 kHz
~ bC~
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1 MHz
unit
~~'V
L~.q
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,
'
100 kHz 300
HFleld
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30
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l 1 O1i\
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300
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100 MHz
300
I 160
10 GHz
40
60
80
30
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I....,
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eT, -::
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CD
en
00
180 w
1200
11220
t 240
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11.62~~
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100 MHz
zd=::
1 kHz
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f""""=r=::sl---[
1:7'~
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I'....'
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20 IQ:Jp41
........... '92:~~:7".
401?7:1l
60
801~:...r=
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200~tLf),.,~ .......
220~';h.~
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F""-....L'~
240
I - .. _.- r--.,e
260 I
3001kHz
100 Hz
280 I
30
I
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300
I _' 1 I
100 MHz
t'JV"
"0
C
en
>
00
~~~
~O .-~~
180
I 200
1 I 220
II 240
I 260
I 280
(/)
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~c
:.c
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l:~d\J."""-=::=:J><... J><
L./:
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30
jC:
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:3i"'!'T q
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300
10 kHz
,,s.""'Sc.......
30
I"., r=181QI
I:::~l;
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30
lilhi:J.,
fPuj,L
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100 MHz
300
l.LA_ I
t_~
, kHz
;:=re=::r:
'P""s c:
40~J.~::>~\~J~~i~J.~
. . . P'Cd.-2"
J2<...cc:::P<cc::a;oj.><J.:::> IA".
f"=>.
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801
~cc::
100 I
, GHz
l.,nlliOCJI
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4'"
10 GHz
30
20
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.1.,,,,,, I
I
60
80
I
I
A 100
120
00
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w
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c
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WO
=r===
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00
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~
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rn
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220 I
200 I
to ,"'ollt
240 I
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3001kHz
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260 I
IrOr:l
100 Hz
280 I
30
N
\C
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"0
co
:>:=7"" I
0'
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30
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30
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25.4
I !
I fa f
1 MHz
300
1 MHz
Frequencv
100 kHz
I"'''''-'r-
f - --
I" .......1
11
HFleld
, ........... ::sa
,==-=-
I ==--
,...........
I:::::;p::..........-.......
10 kHz
....... ~
7'~ ~
l><::
J:><:::
.~~-~
f~:
II
I {I
'Ii
If I
30
u.nh
! I
II
II
IJ
30
10 MHz
l 1 mi\
Ir
I!
30
I J I
10 MHz
,:..v f
'
roo MHz
,
300
1- --- __ . or
lJ,
,
1 GHz
,---- -1
~I
I!
1 GHz
_~
I I
It
I!
300
t
I
I !
100 MHz
1 kHz
zr=:=""",.......-
100 Hz
"-f
0' I
/i@{
I"
10 kHz
i!
.I /
~,=
g==z:
~"""""'FbP':ia:ord"5c1
::::Illi""'..r:rt~-:=
::::Illi""'.c=t:9>::=17'=~
-":sc
: I
11
{I
~S?~SC"<: l""SiE~
~4'h __T =
80 r"5*df\ I :;"~sc::~
100 ~
200 ~""'-f"J'}JI;--;"""'"
, I
t~'lTi.7'........
220
I ~'O:>< I
I - - ---- r--..,e
3001kHz
P'..-LY:} I
260 I
100 Hz
240
280 I
30
=11
,
30
20
I 40
I 60
80
1100
I 200
11220
~ 240
I 260
I 280
1-'
,
10 GHz
1 pnd J.J.,
I ie !
...........,..
I
C~pper
:.1
II
II
I!
30
Chapter 3
Wall Seam-Typical
////////////////. /z '//
Shielding Theory
'/-
."
Z/, 'l////////.
'l/.'l////////-
'l/////
'////////.
:-,:,,"'''''''''''''''''''''',,'\.
~""',"
' l / / / / / / / / / / 'l////////
..-'
,
6 in. jl - - --
% in. Plywo od
I
I
-0
2.5 in.
I' .---r
(9
Hex Head
w ith Slot
'7
-0
I
I
I
I
I
I
3B
(a)
(q)
U!
J O W:>
9>
32
Chapter 3
Shielding Theory
. :. ' .
... .. : .
..
.. . .
.... .
~ 'd~~:~!:;~:~:~
Metal Subst rat e
Me tal- to-Metal
Contact
Adhe sive
Section 3.5
33
Conclusions
Solder Plate
Adhesive
3.5 CONCLUSIONS
Shielded enclosures can be made of just about any type of metal foil, screen, metallic
cloth, or metal sheet, the degree of shielding depending on the frequency and field type
to be attenuated. The real key to an effective shielding system is how the sheets are
seamed together and how penetrations are controlled through the shield. The next chapter .iiscusses commercial shielding systems and how they are designed and specified to
achieve their stated performance.
Chapter 3
34
Shielding Theory
Weld Material
No~step
Type
Step Type
Weld Material
=
Continuous Butt Weld
Fused Material
cL
Spot Weld
Formation of Permanent
Overlap Seam
---1L
CD
CHAPTER 4
Modular Shielded
Enclosures
4.1 INTRODUCTION
A shielded enclosure is a six-sided structure with all doors, vents, and other items
which penetrate the shield treated to maintain shielding integrity. It may be a freestanding structure, such as the modular clamp-up structure, or a welded steel room built
in place on the site. A more recent advent in shielding is the architectural shielding
system, where metal foil or sheet metal is built into the walls, floor, and ceiling of
existing or new construction. This chapter reviews the modular shielded systems commonly provided by the commercial shielded enclosure manufacturer. Both performance
and procurement specifications are provided for the various types of modular enclosures. These range from the most popular form, a galvanized steel paneled room, to
copper screen wire mounted on wood frames. Single- and double-shielded systems are
available in modular form. The latter provide high levels of shielding effectiveness and
are the most common. The single-shield systems provide moderate amounts of shielding
effectiveness, and have become popular in recent years.
The choice of which type of shielding system to use in a given application is a
function of several factors. The first factor is performance. Only performance levels
which are actually needed in terms of shielding effectiveness for each type of electromagnetic field and frequency range should be specified. The required shielding effectiveness is primarily based on the operational purpose of the facility. Hospital and
secure communication facilities generally require shielding for different reasons. The
operational purpose also determines the other physical factors required for the shielded
enclosure such as appearance, HVAC, physical layout, and environmental requirements.
All of these factors must be taken into account when selecting the type of shielding
system for a given application. After all the requirements are clearly defined, the data
given in this handbook can be used to select or specify a particular shielding system.
The most common form of modular shielded enclosure is the clamp-up system
using galvanized sheet metal bonded to both sides of a wood core and tied together by
3S
36
Chapter 4
Emergency Lights
Outlet Box
Electrical Outlet
for Door
Emergency
lights
~~--RFDoor
Platform
Ground Stud
Extractor Fan
a framework made of plated steel. This form of modular system will be discussed first.
The remaining types of premanufactured or prefab structures will follow. The choice of
which system to select is mainly based upon the need for the shielding. The galvanized
panel system is the most common because it is readily available from a large number of
suppliers and provides good performance over a broad frequency range. The remaining
modular shielding systems described and specified provide a variety of capabilities,
each of which depends upon the type of shielding material to be used and the method of
their construction.
Section 4.2
37
Wall Seam-Typical
Counter Sunk
Screws
Used For
Floor
2 in .
Flat Channel
Both Sides
Hat Channel
Plyw ood o r
Nov aply
38
Chapter 4
Str ap
'/.- 20 Screw
Chan nel
Nut
St rap
RC Channel
Corner Cap
(Cast Bronze)
Encl osure
Section 4.2
3 in. Overlap
39
Corner Clamps
I~_ _
Inside
Clamp
Welded
Seam
Outside
Clamp - -.........
V4-20 Phillips Head
Screw
Plywood
Inside Shield
Floor
Tile
Outside
Shield
Masonite
Figure 4-6
Outside
Clamp
40
Chapter 4
shielded enclosures are aware of this limitation, but no solution has been offered other
than installing a pan-type floor; i.e., the floor must either have all seams solder sealed
or welded.
The weight of plywood/particle board systems is about 12 lb/ft". This may be a
problem on the upper floors of office buildings. The other systems described in this
handbook should be considered where weight is a problem. Also, when the ceiling is to
be hung off the parent building, then the effect of that loading must be evaluated. If the
loading exceeds the rated load of the parent building, then the enclosure must be specified to be self-supporting, and will therefore require a steel support structure to carry
the weight of the ceiling panels.
If the climate where the system is to be installed has continuous high humidity,
then the shielding panels cannot be made of particle board, which has a tendency to
swell with moisture and destroy the shielding integrity. A very good grade of marine
plywood should be used in this type of application.
The U.S. Army [I] determined during a long-term stability test of several modular
enclosures that their service life is limited without extensive maintenance, especially of
the RF doors. Another concern is the floor panels. These tend to work loose under
varying loads and the constant stresses caused by people moving about the enclosure.
Modular enclosures should be recertified at least every three years.
Cii 110
90
~<U
80
(/)
.~
u
Q)
/'
70
60
g> 50
:2
.s
40
63
30
~ 100
PW
H./
/
IT
20
.----
-- ------------- _.--
10
o
1 kHz
10 kHz
100 kHz
1 MHz
10 MHz
100 MHz
1 GHz
Frequency
10 GHz
41
Section 4.3.
TI
TI
.....-.
Several versions of the system are available. The principal difference between each
version is the shielding performance, as illustrated below. All versions require special
door treatment to attain the highest performance in the microwave frequency range.
a. 24 Gauge Galvanized Steel
This system has 24 gauge galvanized steel on the exterior and interior surfaces of
the enclosure. The performance of this model of enclosure is as follows.
TYPICAL ATTENUATION CHARACTERISTICS
Magnetic
60 Hz
14 kHz
15 dB
80 dB
Electric
14 kHz
110-120 dB
Plane Wave
450 MHz
100-110 dB
I GHz
100-110 dB
Microwave
10GHz
90-100 dB
Chapter 4
42
140
130
120
co
"'0
110 ~
100
en
en
90
en
~(l)
80
.~(,J
70
<U
ffi
60
50
s:
40
30
:.c~
CJ)
~,
20
,"
-- ----
, ~'
,
..
----- -- 100-----
tiI"I-
~---
-- .... -
NS ~65-6
"'"
./
/'
" /'"
,1
J~
:~'
1
/
I
,..--
-:
//,
-- - -1-.----
10
1 kHz
10 kHz
100 kHz
1 MHz
10 MHz
100 MHz
1 GHz
10 GHz
Frequency
43
Section 4.4
14 kHz
75-80 dB
60 Hz
8 dB
Plane Wave
Electric
Magnetic
14 kHz
120 dB
450 kHz
120 dB
Microwave
1 GHz
120 dB
10 GHz
104-112 dB
Electric
14 kHz
64 dB
14 kHz
120 dB
Microwave
Plane Wave
450 MHz
120 dB
I GHz
120 dB
10 GHz
110-120 dB*
Magnetic
60 Hz
18-25 dB
14 kHz
86-93 dB
14 kHz
120 dB
Plane Wave
Microwave
I GHz
120 dB
450 MHz
120 dB
10GHz
106-120 dB*
e. Four-Shield System
This system consists of dual layers of 24 oz copper and 24 gauge steel on both the
inner and outer shields. The performance of this system is as follows.
TYPICAL ATTENUATION CHARACTERISTICS
Magnetic
60 Hz
30-36 dB
14 kHz
110-120 dB
Electric
14 kHz
120 dB
Microwave
Plane Wave
450 MHz
120 dB
I GHz
120 dB
10 GHz
120 dB*
4.4.1 Description
These special-purpose enclosures are made of wooden frames covered on both sides
with metal screen. The seams are sealed with solder, either continuously or spot sol* Doors require special treatment to achieve the high levels of shielding effectiveness.
Chapter 4
44
140
130
120
co
"0
110
100
CJ)
90
80
.~
70
H/
/'
en
cu
60
50
:c
(/)
t-,
~J
Q)
ffi
~ ~ PW
~/
(J)
-,
<,
"
/
/'
40
30
20
10
1 kHz
10 kHz
100 kHz
1 MHz
10 MHz
100 MHz
1 GHz
10 GHz
Frequency
dered, depending on the manufacturer and the high-frequency performance requirements. Typical shielding effectiveness performance is shown in Fig. 4-12 for a welldesigned system. Screening is useful for factory testing where a "hear through, see
through" environment is desired. Both bronze and copper screening are used, with the
latter providing better magnetic and plane-wave shielding effectiveness.
4.4.2 Procurement Specifications
Refer to Appendix A-4, paragraph 4.3 for a suggested format for procurement specifications.
4.5 SINGLE-SHIELD MODULAR ENCLOSURE
4.5.1 Introduction
A variety of single-shield modular enclosures is available, each having different performance characteristics. NMR enclosures are available from a number of suppliers. These
enclosures are designed to provide electric and plane-wave shielding for nuclear magnetic resonance imaging systems used in hospitals. They are built from nonferrous materials so that the enclosure does not bias the magnetic fields developed in the imaging
equipment. A variety of single-shield modular systems is available for moderateperformance TEMPEST applications. A high-performance single-shield all-steel system
is also available.
4.5.2 Nonferrous NMR Enclosures
4.5.2.1 Description. The most common materials used in these enclosures are
copper and aluminum. Both are nonferrous and will not disturb the magnetic fields
Section 4.5
4S
140
130
120
Cii 110
"C
100
~ 90
,/
(/)
~Q)
80
.~
70
ffi
60
50
U
Q)
~
:c
CJ)
r-,
-,
~~
,/
D~V~
~~~/'
40
,/
,/
30
~.
20
/'
10
1 kHz
10 kHz
100 kHz
1 MHz
10 MHz
100 MHz
1 GHz
10 GHz
Frequency
4.5.2.2 Procurement Specification for NMR Shielded Enclosures. A suggested procurement specification for NMR RF shielded enclosures is given in Appendix
A-4, paragraph 4.4.
4.5.2.3 Magnetic Shielding for NMR Systems. The MRI equipment uses a
very large electromagnet which produces a high static magnetic field. This field is
potentially hazardous to cardiac pacemakers, and the HEW has established that the
magnetic field should not exceed 5 G in areas adjacent to the MRI facility. In some
instances, magnetic shielding may be required in the design of the MRI facility. This
information is obtained from the planning departments of the respective MRI equipment
100 kHz
60 dB
Electric
1 MHz
85 dB
10 kHz
100 dB
10 MHz
100 dB
Plane Wave
100 MHz
100 dB
1 GHz
80 dB
46
Chapter 4
Panel Layoutand
Assembly
manufacturers as part of the marketing service. This may entail as much as 20-100 tons
of steel, depending on the location and particular model of MRI equipment.
Section 4.6
47
4.6 ADVANTAGES/DISADVANTAGES
OF MODULAR ENCLOSURES
The modular enclosures are ideal for small test chambers or work spaces that require
modification for shielding. They are readily available from a number of manufacturers,
either as kits or installed. If demountability is important, then they are the only type of
shielding suitable. If the size of the enclosure exceeds 240 ft2 , then the other types of
shields described in this handbook should be considered. As the size of the space to be
shielded increases, the modular system becomes less cost effective. For large ceiling
spans, special steel structures or support from the parent building must be provided.
Finishing the modular room with conventional wall coverings must be done very carefully to ensure that the integrity of the shield is not compromised. Painting of the
shielding panels is not recommended since the paint capillaries under the strapping and
negates the shielding properties of the system. Water is an absolute enemy of modular
shielding. Normal city water is loaded with minerals, and if spilled (coffee, etc.), the
runoff can get under the strapping and form a deposit which would insulate the strap
from the shielding panel and degrade the shielding effectiveness of the system. If carefully installed a sealing material called "kobakoat" can be used to seal the floor of
modular systems, preventing damage in the case of a sprinkler discharge.
48
Chapter 4
Shield
Material
Wood Frame
12 in.
1
Plan View
~12in.~
12 in.
n
u
J
72 in.
I
I
1
Elevation
View
Section 4.6
49
Galvanized
RC Channel
&
Galvanized
RC Channel
&
Drywall
Drywall
l'
LD
Notes:
Use minimum number
of screws penetrating
shield.
RC channel to be
unpainted galvanized
steel.
Double Shield
Screws Only
Penetrate
Interior Shield
Drywall
Steel Stud
Galvanized Steel
Shield Panel
50
Chapter 4
7/8
~----
-,--
Section 4.7
Critical Considerations
51
140
130
120
co
110
"0
;:; 100
90
80
.~
70
(/)
(1)
U
(1)
ffi
60
g>
50
"0
~
.I:.
en
-:
r-,
<, PW
r-,
~~
H I
,I
40
/'
30
20
.-"---~----_.
-----
-_.._---
10
o
1 kHz
10 kHz
100 kHz
1 MHz
10 MHz
100 MHz
1 GHz
10 GHz
Frequency
S2
Chapter 4
140
130
120
Cii
110
'0
~ 100
~ 90
(/)
~Q)
80
.~
70
Q)
:::
60
w
g>
:0
Q)
:.c(/)
~ r--......
50
40
H .--'" .,,'-
30
~..,.,. ..
20
~".
-_._-
10
o
1 kHz
10 kHz
100 kHz
1 MHz
10 MHz
100 MHz
1 GHz
10 GHz
Frequency
All penetrations in the shield should be made and installed by or under the supervision of the shielding installer. This includes all piping, electrical filters, and ventilation ducts.
Repairing or fixing faulty shielding is a very time-consuming and expensive proposition, especially if the shielding is covered up by interior finishes. If there is any
doubt as to how reliable a supplier or a given system of shielding is, then specify that a
preliminary performance test be conducted upon completion of the enclosure. Temporarily set the RF doors and perform a plane-wave test of the basic enclosure, with
special attention given to any penetrations in the shield. A good indication of the integrity of the basic shell is to perform a seam leak test (described in Chapter 8). A
knowledgeable tester can soon debug most shield systems in a few hours.
Also be aware that two different methods exist for fastening the hat and flat systems together. The preferred method is to attach a nut plate or threaded fastener to the
hat section of the clamping system. A less desirable method is commonly used where
self-tapping screws are threaded into prepunched holes in the framing. These are prone
to stripping and do not have the compression strength of the threaded insert.
Section 4.9
References
53
modular systems have been tailored for its moderate performance requirements, which
are on the order of 50 dB. All of the above specifications are discussed in detail in
Chapter 8.
4.9 REFERENCES
[1] U.S. Army Corps of Engineering Res. Lab. Tech. Rep. M296, "EMIIRFI shielding
effectiveness evaluation of bolt-together rooms in long-term aging," June 1981.
[2] U.S. Patent 2 017 629.
[3] U.S. Patents 2 765 362; 2 853 541; 2 860 176; and 3 009 984.
CHAPTER 5
Welded Shielded
Enclosures
5.1 INTRODUCTION
5.1.1 Scope
This chapter details recommended design practices for welded shielded enclosures. A
large part of the material was drawn from [1] which is entitled USAF Handbook for the
Design and Construction of HEMP/TEMPEST Shielded Facilities.
Well-constructed welded enclosures are the ultimate in shielded facilities. They are
built where a long-term high-performance shielding requirement is needed. Thirty (30)
year life spans and 120 dB electric and plane-wave performance are typical. The principal disadvantage is cost. Therefore, careful planning is essential to obtain the optimum amount of shielding for a given installation.
55
56
Chapter 5
Section 5.2
57
Use the largest steel plates practical in order to minimize the total length of seam
welds.
Select materials and design assembly details for ease of welding.
Where possible, employ assemblies which can be prefabricated in the shop.
Investigate the possibility of using robotized welding or other innovative techniques.
It is also suggested that the specifications permit minor deviations from the drawings by the shielding contractor (with approval of the purchaser) for improved shield
construction.
QC
(It
Low
None
Yes
Not required
Yes
Lap Welded
Sheets
Low
Drilling
Yes
Cutting and
drilling
Cutting
Low
Moderate
Greatest
None
Not required
Least
Cutting, bending,
and welding
Potential for
Buckling
Butt Welded
Sheets
Not required
Shop Fabrication
Required
Anchored to
Subfloor
Pan Technique
Variations
Basic Techniques
TABLE 5-1
Advantages and
Disadvantages
Section 5.2
59
Squar e
Flange Weld
Steel
Shieldin g
5-6 in .
Typical
~~_l
Steel
Shield in g
Structural
Subfloor
60
Chapter 5
The ability to clamp adjacent pans together prior to welding will simplify the
initial shield layup.
Settling, seismic, and thermal movement are unrestrained because it is not necessary to anchor the floor shield.
The standard seam design can also be used as an expansion joint.
Because of the shape factor, which provides enhanced rigidity of the pan, the
often observed problem of buckling will be greatly reduced.
Buckling, particularly in shield floors, has been extremely troublesome with other
designs, and has often required the driving of large numbers of anchors. Additional
welding around the head of each anchor was required, and numerous electromagnetic
leaks needed repair.
The principal disadvantages are the amount and cost of required shop fabrication
and reduced density for transportation. Because hydraulic brakes larger than 12 ft to
perform the bends are uncommon, material costs will be a larger factor in a competitive
environment.
To minimize buckling between adjoining pans, an offset, as illustrated in Fig. 5-2,
is recommended. Experience is required to evaluate the tradeoffs between this advantage and the increased complexity of the shield layout caused by this design concept.
As shown, the concrete wearing slab above the shield is typically 3-4 in. thick for
support of equipment or raised flooring pedestals.
At the discretion of the designer, the pans on the walls can face inward or outward
for welding convenience. Inward is probably the most efficient in concrete and concrete
masonry buildings. Upward facing pans in the ceiling eliminate overhead welding. Assembly techniques where the ceiling can be welded at floor level and then hoisted into
position should be investigated.
Only metal inert gas (MIG) or shielded metal arc welding processes are recommended because they produce welds with high-quality electromagnetic properties. Good
welding practices are essential to the achievement of high shielding effectiveness. Surfaces are prepared by removing rust, scale, oil, and other foreign materials. It is essential to produce a continuous full penetration weld free of slag, inclusions, gas pockets,
worm holes, cracks, or incomplete fusion. Stresses in the welds should be relieved by
skip welding to minimize buckling. The welding and welder qualification procedures
should comply with the structural welding code of the American Welding Society [3]
and military standards [4].
An in-process welding inspection program should require 100% inspection of all
weldments.
The butt-welding technique is shown in Fig. 5-3. This method uses rectangular
sheet stock in the largest available size and requires no shop fabrication, which results
in the lowest material costs. It is this method which has the highest degree of buckling
during shield assembly. The buckling tendency can be reduced or eliminated with carefully arranged plug or puddle welds to some type of backing structure. Three methods
are illustrated in Figs. 5-4, 5-5, and 5-6. The cost savings will be offset by the additional structure.
Another method is known as lap welding. This method is shown in Fig. 5-7. It is
less difficult than butt welding, and large sheets can be used with much looser tolerances, but past projects have shown moderately severe buckling on the floors. This can
be eased by tack welding along the seams prior to running a continuous bead.
Section 5.2
Steel Shielding
61
62
Chapter 5
Figure 55
Plug
We lds
Section 5.2
63
Steel Sh ieldin g
Cont inuous
Lap Weld
Figure 5-7
--1_---++-.,-- -
Steel Shieldi ng
Gypsum
Wall bo ard
" C" St ud
Stee l Angl e
Structural Subfloor
Stud
Channe l
Figure 5-8
Chapter 5
64
"C" Stud
(Heavy Gauge)
Continuous
Fillet Weld
Steel Shielding
"C" Stud
(Light Gauge) - - ....- ..-----
~_--
Stud Channel
Steel Angle
Section 5.3
65
Steel Shielding
Fillet Weld
Adjacent
Canst.
shield. The goal is to surface weld all mounting brackets and minimize penetrations
through the shield.
5.3.2 Shield Wall Supports
It is common practice to insert support brackets between the shield and the parent
building. One method is illustrated in Fig. 5-10. This allows freedom of motion in the
event of settling, a seismic occurrence, or differential thermal expansion between the
two structures. Spacing between the anchoring brackets can be quite large, but should
be specified by the structural designer.
66
Chapter 5
Steel Colum n
Cont inuous
Ceiling
Shield ing
Structural Slab
Below Shielding
the shield are not recommended since circumferential welds around the anchors weaken
an area where high stresses normally exist. Where the shield can be tied directly to the
building support columns. the method shown in Fig. 5-13 is recommended.
Section 5.3
67
Steel Colu m n
o
St eel Shieldin g
Cont inuous
Seam We lds
Structural Slab
Below Sh ielding
68
Chapter 5
Insulation
M etal
Deckin g
JOist /
Craw l Space
~ l m
Lock Wash er
Steel Sh ield in g
U--l---
Tack Weld
==JI:::~~i:==~~~E~Steel Shielding
Figure 515 Alternate shield ceiling suspension.
Structural movement due to thermal cycling will be gradual. Expansion coefficients
of common construction components are well known. and are routinely considered in
the normal course of determining building designs and in developing construction details . Two common building materials likely to interface in the design of a shielded
enclosure are ordinary A-36 steel and concrete with respective coefficients of expansion
of 1.2 x 10- 5 and 1.39 x 10- 5 em/ern . "C. The respective movements to be expected
by virtue of a 1000 temperature differential (T) are 3.6 cm (steel) and 4 .17 cm (concrete) per 30 m or 98 ft of length .
Section 5.3
69
::.:.". . .
. ....
"
~: .~ .
.;. ;
"
".- .
, in.
.'. . .
. ... .
Steel Shielding
While it is unlikely that any of the components contemplated for use in shielding
construction will experience a 100C temperature change during actual usage. it is
conceivable that a significant range of temperatures might be experienced during construction. particularly with direct solar exposure. It is therefore recommended that provisions such as those proposed be integrated into the design of all larger shielded
installations.
Figures 5-16 and 5-17 illustrate provisions to allow thermal cycling in the floor and
ceiling shields. respectively. The stamped fitting for expansion in edge angles may be
Steel Shielding
Chapter 5
70
Shop -Stamped
Expans ion Joint
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
----------- I
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ -J
Steel Ang le
thinner stock than the angle material. When floor shield seams are chosen to also function as expansion joints. a concrete expansion joint is also created. If the form material
is removable. the void is then filled with a flexible elastomer and sealed to prevent
water accumulation . Virtually all shield seams in the ceiling serve this purpose. Where
it is necessary to connect to a sag rod at the expansion joint, the design shown in Fig.
5-17 permits both vertical and lateral motion. A method to permit expansion in the
walls is illustrated in Fig. 5-18.
Section 5.3
71
Tack W eld
Susp ensi on
Cable
Suspended
Ceiling
by the supplier of the steel or at the job site. If coatings (paint) are shop applied before
shield assembly. then it should be recognized that the welding process may be contaminated and will degrade the shielding effectiveness at the seams.
Painting with a zinc-rich paint after installation should be performed for corrosion
protection of shield surfaces. Care must be taken during painting to prevent the paint
from reaching metal mating surfaces which form part of the shield. This is especially
true around door frames and at EMI filter installations.
Suspended
Ceiling
----ttt--+---
Steel Shielding
Gypsum
Wallboard
72
Chapter 5
5.4 PENETRATIONS
The shielded enclosure must be penetrated for a variety of services in order that the
shielded space provide a useful working space. Each of the penetrations made for these
services must be carefully designed and properly installed if the overall shielding effectiveness of the facility is to be achieved. Each of the various types of penetrations is
discussed in Chapter 7.
CD 110
'L/!'
~en 90
~
80
70
~I
,I
Q)
ffi
~
~
60
50
40
30
20
~~
,
I
./
-:
PW
NSA-65-6
~ 100
Q)
PW
'0
.~
Typical Periormance
120
----
/'
10
1 kHz
10 kHz
100 kHz
1 MHz
10 MHz
100 MHz
Frequency
1 GHz
10 GHz
Section 5.9
References
73
140
130
120
en
110
"'0
100
~ 90
~
80
,~
(J
70
Q)
60
50
~
~
~.
40
30
20
""
10
I I
/ I
/ V
/ )
/ /
-:'0/
~ ~o/ /
/ ~ V A.~
V V /' ~
--'
/
V)
Q)
r
J
1 Hz
10 Hz
'I
.f'.
/'f"
100 Hz
1 kHz
10 kHz
100 kHz
1 MHz
10 MHz
Frequency
using thicker sheets of steel. The magnetic shielding performance versus sheet thickness
is illustrated in Fig. 5-22.
5.9 REFERENCES
[I] USAF Handbookfor the Design and Construction of HEMP/TEMPEST Shielded Facilities, AF Regional Civil Engineer Central Region, Dallas, TX, 1987.
74
Chapter 5
[2] U.S. Army Corps of Engineering Res. Lab. Tech. Rep. M296, "EMIIRFI shielding
effectiveness evaluation of bolt-together rooms in long-term aging," June 1981.
[3] American Welding Society (AWS), A5.18-69, "Mild steel electrodes for gas
metal," and DI.I-81, "Structural welding code."
[4] MIL-STD-248C, "Welding and brazing procedure and performance qualification."
[5] DIAM 50-3 Physical Security Standards for Sensitive Compartmented Information
Facilities (SCIF), Defense Intelligence Agency, March 1980.
CHAPTER 6
Architectural Shielding
6.1 INTRODUCTION
Architectural shielding is defined as that shielding which is built into the structure of
the parent building. This does not include welded enclosures, which are discussed in
Chapter 5. A variety of shielding systems has been developed which fits this category.
One of the older systems utilizing aluminum foil had a series of performance failures
which resulted in it falling into disuse. However, due to recent advances in installation
techniques and shielding tapes, it has once again become a viable method of low-cost
shielding, especially for computer installations.
New copper foil materials have been developed which make these materials attractive for moderate- to high-performance architectural installations. For electric and
plane-wave shielding, most continuous metal shields provide good shielding properties.
The key to all of these applications is how well the material is joined together to form
a continuous barrier. Architectural shielding is only as good as its joining method and
its RF integrity once it has been penetrated for the various services required to make an
enclosed space useful. The following sections will describe in some detail the various
shielding materials and how they are seamed to accomplish their stated shielding effectiveness. First, a section is devoted to describing what factors are critical in a "builtin" shielding system. If low-frequency magnetic shielding is required, then some form
of ferrous material must be used.
75
Chapter 6
76
Architectural Shielding
this method of seam sealing, but aluminum and steel do not. Unless the seam is welded,
the latter requires mechanical methods to seal the seams. The most common method
currently used for aluminum foil shielding is to lap the joints and then tape them. Stainless steel foil is installed in a similar manner. Galvanized steel sheet metal is also used
in architectural shielding and is seamed with a variety of techniques. All of these techniques degrade the shielding effectiveness of the basic shielding material. Therefore,
care must be exercised in selecting the shielding method for a given application. Penetrations for piping, power, heating, and air conditioning must be carefully designed;
otherwise, the performance of the shield will be seriously compromised. These latter
problems are discussed in the next chapter. Another important problem common to most
architectural shielding is protecting the shield from accidental or intentional penetrations after installation. The last section in this chapter discusses methods of installing
the shielding so that it remains protected, but still permits the installation of electrical
wiring and other services within the shielded enclosure. The following sections describe
in detail a variety of architectural shielding systems which can be built into new and
remodeled construction.
Another very important problem in single-skin shielding systems is the "antenna
effect." This occurs when a penetration such as a nail, bolt, screw, or other attachment
penetrates the shield, but is not "grounded," i.e., the penetration does not have a
metal-to-metal seal at the point of attachment. Energy is then coupled from one side of
the shield to the other, forming an antenna. This is especially important where the
penetration exceeds 0.01 wavelength in size. For common nails and screws, this can
reduce the shielding effectiveness at frequencies as low as 100 MHz. Any fastener
which penetrates the wall must achieve a metal-to-metal seal at the shield. The best
way, in general, to achieve this is to have the fastener, such as a screw, pull into a solid
structure and compress the screw head against the shielding material. This is especially
critical when using the fasteners for ceiling hangers or other load-bearing situations
where the screws are being pulled out by a dead load. The fasteners must be compatible
with the shield material so that corrosion does not negate the metal-to-metal seal.
6.3.1 Introduction
Aluminum foil shielding has been criticized as a poor system, unreliable, and difficult
to maintain, but recent advances in materials, and especially in shielding tapes, have
lent new life to this low-cost method of attaining a moderate amount of electromagnetic
shielding.
Originally, aluminum foil shielding was conceived in the 1970s as a low-cost alternative to welded steel. The recommended construction methods were somewhat elaborate and difficult to implement in practice [I]. As a result, not many of the installations
were implemented, and the technique fell into disrepute. The recent heavy demand for
large enclosed shielded spaces of moderate shielding performance (approximately
50 dB) has given new life to this form of shielding. Aluminum foil systems are now
available from a number of experienced suppliers who can provide reliable shielding
systems [2].
Section 6.3
77
Lap Seam
---l
~ . / Aluminum Tape
3in. ~
Folded Seam
n
2.5 in.
n
~
6 in.
T
r--
78
Chapter 6
oJ
,.:
..
oJ
-:
.,
..
.'
::tl
~ Acoustical Ceiling
- - - 1 % in. Steel Studs
'12 in . Drywall
/
..-
. .
-:
I
0
Architectural Shielding
V2 in Drywa ll
3 % in. Steel Stu ds
Alu m in um RF Shi eld ing
'
'.
next applied to the walls of the room and to the foil. Beginning in one corner, the sheets
are applied around the walls from floor to ceiling and wall to wall. The ceiling is
treated in the same manner, at each joint, either parallel or endwise, and a minimum 6
in. overlap is made between sheets. Figure 6-2 illustrates the overall method of installation. The corner seams are provided with a 12 in. wide strip of foil, 6 in. along each
leg of the corner, and the seams are taped. The three-way corners are formed by overlapping from the two intersecting walls and then taping all seams. Care must be taken to
prevent adhesive getting into the 6 in. lap area . Metal-to-metal contact between the foil
panels is essential in providing the optimum shielding performance.
Section 6.4
79
The data represented in this chart are the average
attentuation measured at all test points on three
accredited aluminum foil rooms. At 10 kHz, 100 kHz,
and 1 MHz in the electric field, all measurements
exceeded the dynamic range (75 dB) of the
receiving equipment.
130
120
110
100
en
90
80
fa
70
.g
:J
C
Q,)
Mrrrrnr-ri1-rr . . ....
~.
~
~.lIIII
III I, I,~~
::: 60
4:
50
1,'- l"""
40
_<Il~
30
"
20
./
. /~
~il'''
""I'--~~"
I ~t-'
Plane Wave
IIIII
0.001
0.01
0.1
III
1.0
10.0
100
1000
~.--.-._._._._.-
10 000
'00000
Frequency (MHz)
6.4.2 Installation
The layout of the foil installation is shown in Fig. 6-4. The foil is installed by using an
industrial-grade contact adhesive. The three-way corners are formed as illustrated in
80
Chapter 6
Architectural Shielding
90 Corner
Copper Foil
Door
RF Shielding Tape
Copper Foil
Fig. 6-5. The two-way corners are formed by creasing the foil and forming a 900 bend.
The material is cut to fit the pattern shown in Fig. 6-4. The joints are made to fit
tightly, but not overlap. All seams are then sealed with the 2 in. wide solder seal tape.
6.4.3 Performance
Properly constructed, using high-quality doors and other penetrations, the performance
of a single-shield copper enclosure can provide the following levels of performance.
Magnetic Field
14 kHz
30 dB
200 kHz
50 dB
Electric Field
10 kHz
100dB
100 MHz
100dB
Plane Wave
50 MHz
100dB
100 MHz
100dB
Microwave
1 GHz
100dB
10 GHz
100dB
Section 6.5
81
12 in.
1
-----------:--------- T
II
\ 3 in .
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I"
RF Tape
82
Chapter 6
Architectural Shielding
TABLE 6-1
Frequency
Field Type
I kHz
3 kHz
10 kHz
30 kHz
100 kHz
200 kHz
1 kHz
10 kHz
200 kHz
I MHz
400 MHz
I GHz
18 GHz
M
M
M
M
M
E
E
E
E
P
P
P
Cu-49-Cu (dB)
31
49
76
87
>100
>100
93
>101
>130
>130
115
105
110
approach produces good EMI shielding properties for a wide frequency band. The material works well from the kilohertz frequency range up to the microwave frequencies. A
single-shield enclosure exceeds the requirements of NSA 65-6 when good construction
methods are implemented and properly designed doors and other penetrations are used.
6.5.2 Performance
The performance of a Cu-49-Cu alloy 0.012 in. thick is listed in Table 6-1. It is
compared to the requirements specified by NSA.65-6.
6.5.3 Material Description
The Cu-49-Cu alloy comes in 24 in. wide rolls and in several thicknesses. A common
thickness is 0.010 in. A variety of preformed materials is available, as illustrated in Fig.
6-6. These are a help in achieving a high-performance shielded enclosure.
6.5.4 Installation Procedures
The installation details are shown in Fig. 6-7. The shielding material should be installed on the floor first. The foil is cut to the length of the floor plus a minimum of 6
in. The latter will be bent and run up the wall to form the lap joint illustrated in
Fig. 6-7. The floor is soldered in place using the 2 in. wide solder strips. It is recommended that an 800-1000 W soldering iron with a built-in thermocouple and a temperature controller be used. The iron is set in the 350C range for optimum soldering
operations. A good grade of contact adhesive is recommended to hold the shielding foil
in place. The floor should then be covered with some form of protective covering.
Plywood held down with a thick construction grade mastic works well. It is important
that the shielding foil has no penetrations or holes, but if such exist, they should be
patched with the solder tape. When the floor is in place and covered with plywood, the
ceiling foil should be installed, again bringing the foil down the wall on all sides by at
least 3 in. After the seams are sealed with the 2 in. solder tape, the wall material is
Section 6.6
83
Sn/Pb
::
Cu
Tinned Strip
2.0 i n . - . j
Sn/Pb
Two-Dimensional
Contoured Corner
Strip
Three-Dimensional
Corner Closure
"U't-Shaped
Structural
Material
Shielding Foil
Floor
Solder
Wall
....
co
::
~
0
" ,
.; ',
... ,
. ' ~.
..
12 in .
:::.
2 in.
-i IFloor
Figure 68
84
Ceiling/waIVfloor overlap .
Section 6.6
85
- - - - 6 in. j-
CIearance
- --
oe
I
I
II'
I ! I
II;
I : I
i I
I: !
---r-.
0 --
I II
I, I
I
0- -- --,
_J __
r------ -
I
I
I
I
I
I
1.25 in.
7'
,i
)
86
Chapter 6
Architectural Shielding
150
140
0- - - - -0 Measured
130
- - - - Calculated
120!~......
110
Cii'
.s
~,
100
90
~ ~~
<,
"~
r', '0-_ --
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
1 GHz
100 MHz
10 GHz
Frequency
common material is 26 gauge galvanized sheet metal since this material is corrosion
resistant and provides good magnetic shielding properties. It is also readily available
and very cost effective.
6.6.2 Theory of Operation
The sheet metal selection is based upon the information given in Chapter 3 on the basic
properties of shielding materials. The geometry of the seams is based upon the following formula:
A
- yl2
I
dB
Section 6.6
87
140 t - - - - + - - - - - + - - - - + - - - - - f - - - - - - + - - - - - . l
130 t - - - - + - - - - - + - - - - + - - - - 4 - - - - - 4 - - - - - . l
--~---+--6
in.
co
----+-----+--5 in.
t-.;;;;;~~:r_~..........;;;:-~;;;;;:_- ...'""__::::rr__:7"""--_:::==t::====::::::l.- 4 in.
J---=~~~~~~~~_P!~...,2S~,.L..__,..c=:.=t::=====::::t-3 in.
.s
o
.~
.--+-----t--2.5 in.
C'O
='
.__-t-----t-- 2 in.
Q)
t::
4:
60 t-----r-----+----i--..L---f--+-+---+-----.!
50 t----+-----f-----i----+----~--~
40t----+-----+----f------+-----+---~
30t-----+-----..........--~--~-----+---~
--...-.---....Io-----..---.
...
GHz
---~--
20 .....
100 MHz
...
10 GHz
Frequency
88
Chapter 6
I ,
- - II
, -
I~
- - - - -
1-
1-
I I
I,
I
II
I
I
- - - - - I
- -I- ...1--
@- -
-I-
'
~)ID
I- -
- I T~L_
I I
~ I
- - -
I
"I
1I
I,
J
I'
I I
,I
I
-- - - ,
,I
'I
I,
,
-1-
-I
I,
"
II
,..
- -
'I
I
I
I
, I
; I
I
1-
I~
II
I
I,
Architectural Shielding
:!
-I
1-
- I "-
Figure 6-U
~r----.- _
~---12 in.---~
12 in.
12 in.
Cut Line
3 in. Lap Joint
140
130
~
120
Cii
110
/~ T.--E
"C
~ 100
90
~
<U
f/)
7((
60
t)
W
g'
:.0
5o
/"'/
H/
rill'
.",;a.;.
"
~,
--
t}--_
~-.ot..
.... fO
~-
-f=
~--~
PW
...... ..(
~,
~---- - --tl
'~~
'/
,,
,
3
0/
20
'i
'-'\
en.. . /-..;'
Qj
CJ)
:c
~/
.~
""1;,.
_ _ - - ~-E
",'- ~~ ~
/~
//
rt'l.
,,
0
0
1 kHz
10 kHz
100 kHz
1 MHz
10 MHz
Frequency
100 MHz
1 GHz
10 GHz
0-----0
with absorber
t:r - - - 6
without absorber
tenuate the plane-wave energy through the seams. A cost-effective method has been
found using absorbing material sandwiched underneath the outer seam cover. Several
rooms were built using this technique. All exceeded the plane-wave requirements of
NSA 65-6 [6], [7].
89
90
Chapter 6
Architectural Shielding
The system consists of structural framing, wall and ceiling furring, prefabricated
intersections and corners, barrier panels, door mountings, power and signal filter
Predecorated
Gypsum Panel
Wall System
Acoustical
Blankets
Factory-Installed
Metal Gasket
Snap-In
Furring
Channel
Snap-In
Panel
Section 6.8
91
Stud
Sheet ro ck
'h in . plywood
".
,...
"
". 0
." .
Copper Screen
3 in .
92
Chapter 6
Architectural Shielding
100 kHz
1 MHz
10 MHz
100 MHz
I GHz
100
75
70
65
60
55
10 GHz
interfaces with door frames. Thus, it is not sufficient to coat the walls with a shielding
material; a complete methodology of electromagnetic energy containment is required.
Further information on installation methods is given in Section 6.9.
TABLE 6-3
WAVE SHIELDING
EFFECTIVENESS OF
NONWOVEN NICKEL
COATED GRAPHITE
Frequency
10 kHz
50 kHz
100 kHz
2 MHz
50 MHz
400 MHz
1 GHz
10 GHz
57
62
73
Section 6.8
93
TABLE 6-4
Property
Substrate
Construction
Metal
Plastic
Weights
a. Substrate (g/rrr')
b. Metal (g/nr')
c. Finished Material (g/rrr')
d. Plastic Coating (g/rrr')
Width (inches)
de Resistance (mfl/sq)
Shielding Effectiveness
Frequency (dB)
10 kHz
100 kHz
I MHz
10 MHz
100 MHz
I GHz
10 GHz
40 GHz
Flammability
Polyester
Plain Weave
Nickel
Kevlar 49
Plain Weave
Nickel
Polyester
Plain Weave
Nickel
Polyurethane
100
25-35
125-135
100
45-55
145-155
58-63
85-125
39-55
50-100
100
25-35
225-235
100 one side
55-60
85-125
>50
>50
>50
>50
>50
>55
>60
>40
Flammable
>50
>50
>50
>50
>50
>55
>55
>50
Will burn, but
with some
difficulty
>50
>50
>50
>50
>50
>55
>60
>40
Flammable
94
Chapter 6
TABLE 6-5
Architectural Shielding
Substrate
Construction
Metal
Nominal Thread
Diameter (JLm)
Nominal Mesh
Opening (JLm)
Nominal Mesh
Count/inch
Nominal Open
Area (%)
Weights
a. Substrate (g/rrr')
b. Metal (g/rn'')
c. Finished Material (oz/yd ')
Width (inches)
Thickness (urn)
dc Resistance
(rnfl/sq)
Shielding Effectiveness
Frequency (dB)
10 kHz
100 kHz
1 MHz
10 MHz
100 MHz
I GHz
10 GHz
40 GHz
Flammability
Type of Cloth
Polyester
Plain Weave
Nickel
Polyester
Plain Weave
Nickel
Polyester
Twill Weave
Nickel
103
41
42
307
41
21
61
305
420
58
27
9.5
90
20-30
3.24-3.54
40-59
225
35
30-40
1.92-2.21
40-59
62
45
40-50
2.51-2.80
40-59
73
120-160
60-100
40-80
>50
>50
>50
>50
>50
>50
>35
>20
Flammable
>55
>55
>55
>55
>55
>60
>65
>50
Flammable
>55
>55
>55
>55
>55
>70
>80
>80 (26 GHz)
Flammable
Section 6.9
.:*-
11-'1--
. --
95
Moisture Barrier
+- - - - a..-- - - . --
-..-
- - Dryw all
t:1:::+---- RC Channel
96
Chapter 6
.If-Jv
- - - - - -
~----
Architectural Shielding
..-
Shielding -Foil/Drywall
Sheet Metal / Plywood
o fr .;
RC Channel
1'- ";,
::f - -
Drywa ll
~ .:
rJ :.
/
Plywood
Floor
Wood Furring
IHeid by
Construction
Adhesive)
~~~:r
Seam
Copper
Folded
Shield ing
Foil
.l IVt?J~ /
Tile
Plywood
/ ; Me;"",,
I / Barrier
Section 6.10
97
References
Ceil ing
Lead
Lead
Steel
Washer
Shield
CAD Plated
Drywall Screw
Concrete
metal-to-metal seal, it becomes an " antenna," and will couple energy from the inside
to the outside or vice versa .
In galvanized sheet metal facilit ies, such as the sandwich seam system, the meth ods shown in Fig . 6-20 have been used success fully. Here, the " antenna effect" is
killed by using the soft lead to provide a metal-to-metal seal wherever a screw is used to
penetrate the shielding. In these installations. it is important that the screw be securely
fastened, and that the metal under the screw be under compression . If the screw spins
out, then a larger screw must be used or the hole patched and the fastener moved to
another location .
6.10 REFERENCES
[I) NSA 73-2A, "National Security Agency specification for aluminum foil shielded
enclosures," Nov. 15, 1972.
(2) S. C. Jewell , "Aluminum foil RF shielding systems." ITEM. pp. 64-71.1988 .
[3] G . Trenkler and L. McBride, " Composite metal shields for electromagnetic interference," ITEM. pp. 242-246, 1987.
(4) G . Trenkler and R. Delagi, "The application of clad metals for EMI room shielding," ITEM . pp. 222-226, 1988.
[5] "Shield system and sandwich seam for attenuation of electromagnetic energy ,"
U.S . Patent 4 733 013 issued Mar. 22, 1988.
(6) Tech . Rep. 87.6.4., Ark Electronics, Inc., " Shielding effectiveness measurements
of electromagnetic shielded enclosure."
[7] Test Rep. ERC Corp., "Shielded enclo sure performance test report for Rantron systems," Sept. 1987.
CHAPTER 7
Penetrations
and Their Control
7.1 INTRODUCTION
A six-sided metal room is not very practical. Many penetrations must be made to develop it into a useful working shielded enclosure. Doors, heating and air conditioning
ducts, piping, fiber optics, electrical power, telephone lines, and other services must be
provided. Each of these have special design requirements, and must be treated with as
much care in the design phase of the project as the overall enclosure. Figure 7-1 illustrates a variety of penetrations. First, criteria will be discussed for effective RF-tight
penetrations, and then a thorough treatment will be given on each type of penetration
commonly encountered. Guidance will be provided for mounting the various penetrations in welded, modular, and architectural shielded enclosures.
99
Chapter 7
100
Antenna
Honeycomb
Vent
Welded
Seam
Shielded
Lead-In
Shielded
Lines
Gasketed
Seam (Service Panels)
I
~
Fingerstock
Seam (Doors)
Filtered
Lines
Insulated
Water Pipe
Metallic
Waveguide
Clamped
Seam
Coaxial
Line
be provided around the location of the penetration to maintain the physical integrity of the system.
Penetrations through modular shielding must be made so that a metal-to-metal seal
is obtained on both sides of the shielding panel. For connector panels, vents, and other
penetrations of large size, it has been found best to use frames made from the hat and
flat material used in the panel framing. These should be formed into picture frames
using welded corners. These frames must be flat and square.
Single-shield enclosures require additional care since the usually thin materials,
foil or sheet metal, will not physically support the penetrations. Therefore, it is essential
that additional support structure be supplied for each type of penetration. Large flanges
must be provided to ensure that a low-impedance junction is provided between the
shield and the penetration.
The following sections discuss doors, heating and air conditioning, piping, and
fiber optics. Chapter 8 discusses electromagnetic filters.
Blust
7.3 DOORS
7.3.1 Introduction
The radio frequency shielded door is the most important of the penetrations in a
shielded enclosure. It is generally the weakest link in the system and the most difficult
Section 7.3
Doors
101
to maintain due to its high usage. It is a precision device, and must be designed and
manufactured to maintain its mechanical and electrical functions under the most demanding circumstances that may be encountered in the installation. High shielding effectiveness can only be maintained if the structure of the door and frame is strong
enough to maintain the tight tolerances needed to achieve the RF seal around the perimeter of the opening.
Various techniques and methods of construction are used in the manufacture of
doors, depending on the shielding specifications, door use, size, and environment. Each
of the most common designs is described with their advantages and disadvantages.
One of the most difficult requirements for an RF door is that of handicap access.
Various solutions to meeting this requirement are incorporated, but no one solution has
been completely satisfactory in meeting the full NSA 65-6 performance requirements.
Generally, the performance is limited to the requirements of MIL-STD-285 in that the
magnetic field shielding effectiveness is lower and the plane-wave performance is limited up to 400 MHz. The various designs currently available will be illustrated.
In high-traffic areas, such as shielded buildings or computer centers, it is necessary to provide a vestibule with double doors or a waveguide or sinuous tunnel entrance. These are described in Section 7.3.4.
102
Chapter 7
Fingerstock Gasket
Under Cornpression
Door Leaf
(a)
Recessed Contact
Mechanism (RCM)
Fingerstock
RF Gasket
----~e
~---
Knife Edge
on Door Leaf
(b)
Figure 7-2
Section 7.3
Doors
103
Welded
Door Frame
Metal-to-Metal
Seal
~---
,..L..-.;::::"_~~~'----';~-""'-....;:=II~---.;:lIC..-_~-~-~~~"-"_""'--a,
Air Bladder
Sliding Door
___ Door
Fingerstock
........
.....-...:~
Figure 7-5
~~""""'-'-
door or the frame, such as the bolts used to mount the hinges, where microwave energy
could leak. Another important design consideration is how the door handle is designed.
Since a shaft must penetrate the door leaf, it must be designed so that the shaft is
grounded so that it does not become an antenna.
It is also important that the door frame tie well into the surrounding shielding.
This is especially important for single-shield systems. Special care must be taken for
foil systems since any strain placed on the foil near a door opening could fracture the
foil and degrade the shielding effectiveness.
The most common RF doors are next described with their advantages and disadvantages. Procurement specifications for each of the types described are given in Appendix A-7. The most commonly specified door is the ReM design.
104
Chapter 7
Handle in
Closed Position
Surface Latch
(Two Point)
Door Elevation
Door in RF Shielded
and Closed Position
Gasket
,
,,
\
,
, ,\
I
Door Frame
\
I
r-- L
'1-\'
\ \
"
\ \\
\\
t \\
---
\\
f\
\ \\
~~~~
- - - - -
\\
, ..1 L_l
L---r----
t.------
truded phosphor bronze knife geometry and mated with a pocket in the door frame
containing the beryllium fingerstock RF gasket. One of these extrusions is soldered to
the perimeter of the door leaf, and the other to the inside of the door opening made in
a shielding panel. The door assembly is mounted in the enclosure wall using the same
hat and flat assemblies used for the remainder of the enclosure.
Each manufacturer has a variation of the ReM design, with the method of attaching the fingerstock being the largest difference. Several of these are illustrated in Fig.
7-7. This is the only patentable feature since the ReM concept is now part of the
public domain. Several companies have introduced the double-knife-edge concept illustrated in Fig. 7-8. The double knife edge is primarily useful for very high performance,
Doors
Section 7.3
105
Fingerstock
Sheet Metal
~-+-+---
Fingerstock
Fingerstock
Brass Extrusion
Fingerstock
2-56
Screw
Sheet Metal
Bronze Extrusion
Fingerstock
106
Chapter 7
---------------------,
0
0
___
___
_ _ _0
_ _ _ _---i 0
--------------------,
Door Leaf
Bottom Plate
Finger sto ck
Brass Th resho ld
Section 7.3
107
Doors
mance. An obvious disadvantage is that of handicap access. A lip must exist at the floor
level to accommodate the ReM pocket. The most common solution is a poor compromise, as shown in Fig. 7-9. This design is subject to dirt, high maintenance, and poor
magnetic and microwave shielding effectiveness. Some suppliers have a ramp option,
which automatically positions a short ramp up to the lip of the door as the door is
opened, rather than compromise the performance of the door.
Refer to Appendix A-7.1 for suggested procurement specifications for the RCMtype shielded door.
Door Frame
Door Leaf
108
Chapter 7
/-:-'.
--L.
figure 7-11
system which reliably pulls the door leaf into contact with the door frame . A version of
this door is used in MRI installations which do not have the high-performance requirements of the other installations. This door geometry is illustrated in Fig. 7-12; note the
low threshold , which is suitable for hospital gurneys. These doors also come in very
attractive finishes suitable for the hospital environment.
A fourth form of the compression door is the sliding pneumatic door, which is
illustrated in Fig. 7-13. The RF seal is obtained either by the air pressure expanding the
thickness of the door leaf, making contact with the door frame, or the door frame
expanding, providing a metal-to-metal seal with the door leaf. This door configuration
is only suitable for welded installations since the door and frame are extremely massive
in order to attain the extreme forces required for this type of RF seal to function prop-
ac.
<
.S
/
.~
Grounded Threshold
figure 7-12
-. .:. '.
. '
Section 7.3
109
Doors
Track
Ground Steel
Box Beam
Shield
Track
Metal-toMetal
RF Seal
Air Bladder
Shield
Track
Section A-A
erly. The disadvantage of this type of construction is its cost, on the order of six times
that of the ordinary ReM door. The advantage is that it is an extremely highperformance door system, capable of very high magnetic shielding, very low in frequency, and also of very good performance, well up into the millimeter frequencies.
Two versions are available: the fully automatic door which operates by air pressure at
the push of a button, or the manual door which must be slid manually (very difficult in
most instances; the doors are extremely heavy) and then sealed by pushing a button. A
back-up air cylinder is recommended in case a factory power failure shuts down the
building air system. This is recommended for critical installations where the shielding
must be maintained, even under emergency conditions. It does not meet the fire codes
since they require a breakout hinged door. A swing-out version of the pneumatic door is
110
Chapter 7
Electric Field
Plane Wave
110
100
90
80
70
60
Attenuation in Decibels
50
40
30
20
,/
Magnetic Field
10
a
1
kHz
10
100
10
100 400
MHz
10
GHz
Frequency
Guaranteed Performance When Tested To NSA 65-6 Specifications.
Electromagnetic Door
Frame Contact Area
Trim Plate
Door Leaf
3/4
in Shielded Panel
now available, suitable for fire exits. Sample specifications are given in Appendix A-7
for both versions.
A form of the compression door is those that are required to be compatible with
the double-isolated modular shielding systems described in Chapter 5. A procurement
specification for this type of door is described in Appendix A-7, paragraph 7.3.
Section 7.3
Doors
III
Another form of compression door is the permanent magnet or electromagnetoperated shielded door. Various forms of the permanent magnet type have been available for several years; generally they are only useful for moderate shielding
effectiveness installations. A high performance electromagnet-operated door [I] is now
available that meets the full NSA 65-6 performance requirements; that door is specified
in paragraph 7.4 of Appendix A-7. The advantage of this door is that it does not have
any fingerstock that requires servicing and the door is rated for 500,000 operations with
minimum service, making it useful for high use installations. The door operates with
fingertip control and comes standard with push bar exit operation. A slightly lower
performance version that meets Title 24 requirements for handicapped operation is also
available. The geometry and performance of this door is given in Fig. 7-13B.
very important that galvanized plated steel be used for both the door frame and the door
leaf. With care, these can be painted after installation. To achieve the stated performance, the doors must be very carefully connected into the surrounding shielded wall,
especially at the floor; otherwise, the desired performance will not be achieved. A
metal-to-metal seal between the door frame and the door leaf is essential. The frame
must also have a metal-to-metal seal from the frame to the surrounding walls and floor.
A sample procurement specification for moderate-performance shielded doors is
given in Appendix A7, paragraph A7.5.
112
Chapter 7
~-----
3 ft
------41-..
7ft
Metal
Door
8
RF Gasket
Section A-A
Ball Bearing Hinges
k:;
".-_______
4110.-/
F GaSket
Brass Threshold
Section B-B
effectiveness requirements are usually specified to meet NSA 73-2A, which calls for a
moderate level of shielding. A conservative level of 60 dB-l GHz is acceptable, which
means that the doors discussed in Section 4.3.3.4 are usable. The double-door arrangement is illustrated in Fig. 7-15. The doors are provided with electric locks which are
Section 7.3
113
Doors
!
RF Door SW
Outside
Shield
I
I
I
x
-
Fire Door
With Controlled Access
Safety
Mat (Required)
"~::-::=======:::::J Shield
Control
Mat (Option to Door Switch)
RF
Door
SW
Notes:
1. Doors are electrically
interlocked, with only one
open at a time.
12 ft
Shield
RF Door
Switch
Inside Shield
interlocked so that one of the doors must be in the closed position before the other is
opened. It is recommended that the distance between the doors be a minimum of 6 ft
for low-traffic enclosures and 12 ft for high-traffic facilities. The minimum width should
be on the order of 4 flo For high-performance, high-use facilities, it is recommended
that the sliding air-operated door be used in the vestibule system if the fire code will
permit its use. If not, it is common to add a fire door at another location in the facility
to meet the code requirements, thus maintaining the high level of performance without
serious degradation due to high usage normally experienced by the conventional RCMtype RF door.
114
Chapter 7
Notes:
1. Labyrinth Footprint
Approximately 32 x 42 h.
2. Mean Path Through
Labyrinth A to 8 = 58 ft.
10 Gauge Welded
Steel Shield Plane
\
10 in'.
Microwave Absorbers
20 h, 6 in.
-~-
: - 11 ft,10in.
8tt,Oin.1
....
20 tt
l=ijilllllllll"iIiIii:'~::I~j::j:'::j::::::'iIIi"'ii"'ii"iir
10 Gauge Welded
Steel Shield Plane
A new form of waveguide entry is the sinuous path entrance, which is a waveguide
entry that is lined with absorbing material and has no doors. This form of entry is
Section 7.3
Doors
us
illustrated in Fig. 7-16. The design of these entrances is still in the formulative stages,
and the designer is referred to the current literature such as that given in [2].
Door Closer
-HH-+t-t-----.~
Door
Door Frame
Emergency
Release
Unlatch and
Stop Buttons
latch Unit
Adjustable Hinges
Overhead Opener
Emergency
Release
Door
Door Frame--_--.u..-
Adjustable Hinges
latch Unit
Opening Mat
Figure 7-18
116
Section 7.4
117
aspect of these vents is how they are mounted in the wall or ceiling of the enclosure. In
modular enclosures, it is common to solder the honeycomb directly into the galvanized
steel shielding panel. These panels must be preengineered so that they get placed in the
right location of the shielded enclosure. In welded enclosures, the honeycomb is factory
mounted into a frame, which is then welded in the field in a rough-cut opening in the
shield. The frame must be designed so that field welding will not damage the vent
material. For single-shield systems such as in architectural shielding, the vents are
mounted in clamp-up frames, which are then bolted into place at the job site. Some
preparation of the rough opening must be done to ensure that a proper RF seal is
achieved around the perimeter of the vent frame. Also, provision must be made to
support the weight of the vent since the single-shield system usually is not capable of
providing support.
Three different forms of vents are available, depending on the type of shielding to
be installed. The most common is steel honeycomb with 3/16 or 1/8 in. cells, 1 in. thick.
This is either soldered into a shielding panel or mounted in a frame. For 60 dB requirements, the frame can be screwed into the shielded wall using gasketing, but for higher
performance enclosures, a clamping arrangement such as the hat and flat is recommended. For welded enclosures, the frame should be of steel and designed to be field
welded into place in a rough opening cut out of the enclosure; a large overlap is recommended. The vent frame must be plated prior to installation. The second most common vent material is made of brass. These are recommended for NMR installations
where nonmagnetic materials are usually used. They are also recommended in applications where the humidity is high; experience has shown that the steel types will rust out
in the presence of high levels of moisture. These vents provide excellent electric and
plane-wave shielding, but the magnetic shielding effectiveness is lower than the steel
versions. For very high-performance installations (120 dB), a composite version of the
brass and steel is recommended. This consists of a sandwich of the two types of honeycomb mounted in the same frame. The brass version should be located on the exterior
side of the frame. In the doubly isolated enclosure, two frames are used, isolated from
each other.
Provisions shall be made to attach ductwork to the vent, and this normally takes
the form of a flange located around the perimeter of the clear opening. The size of the
vents is usually selected to be 15% larger than the size of the ducts to reduce the blockage provided by the honeycomb cells. For more precise sizing, the pressure drop data
given in Table 7-1 and Fig. 7-21 should be considered in the design of these devices. In
those installations requiring electrical isolation, a dielectric break in the form of an
insulated sleeve is provided by the mechanical contractor.
7.4.3. Performance
The vent performance shall be the same as that of the shielded enclosure. If lowfrequency magnetic field requirements are necessary, then the vent must be fabricated
from steel.
The typical performance of these devices is shown in Table 7-2.
Chapter 7
118
Brass
Air
Bladder
Fingerstock
Gasket
Door
Leaf
---...,tt---::J.....
Air Bladder
7.5 PIPING
7.5.1 Introduction
Pipe penetrations in shielded enclosures must be designed so that a metal-to-metal seal
is achieved at the point of penetration. The size of the piping and how it is terminated
inside the enclosure is critical to maintaining the overall shielding effectiveness of the
enclosure. The three different types of shielded enclosures, welded, modular, and architectural, require different forms of the penetrations.
Electromagnetic energy will pass through a pipe that is large in terms of wavelength , and will provide leakage paths into a shielded enclosure unless the proper design
procedures are not invoked . If the piping is continuous and completely sealed, such as
a gas or water pipe inside a shielded enclosure, then the piping need only be metalto-metal sealed at the wall entrance to the shielded enclosure, regardless of pipe size . In
119
Piping
Section 7.5
Duct Work
__
by Others
Canvas Connector and
Collar When Required
l~
Vent Size
CLR Opening
(See Penetration
Schedule for Size)
Duct by Mech.
1in. Thick Tin-Plated Brass
Honeycomb Air Vent with Va in.
Cells, Size Same as CLR
Opening. Solder to Collar
Symmetrical
~ of Duct
No Plating on this
Flange (Either Side)
RF
_----a...~_ _--+"\.)
Va
Inside
Shielding
RF Shield
Outside
Shielding
va
Note: Collar corners to
be mitered & cont. RF
Welded.
See
L:R
= 0.08
11 Gauge Hot-Rolled
Bent Collar Where Required
for Duct-Work
Dielectric Flex
Connection 6 in.
Minimum Length
by Mechanic
120
Chapter 7
TABLE 7-1
Inches of water:
F/min:
(Multiply by area to
obtain CFM.)
0.015
0.025
400
600
0.042
800
0.065
0.30
1000
2000
.06
.05
Q.
0OS .04
~
Q)C'O
:;~
(/)'t-
(/)0
~ ~
.03
Q...r:.
.~
--
(0(J)
.02
.01
O-+---+----+----t--+---+---+----+---.1
200
300
400
500
600
700
800
900
1000
Velocity FPM
100 kHz
120 dB
Electric Fields
10 MHz
120 dB
100 MHz
120dB
Plane-Wave Fields
I GHz
10 GHz
120 dB
120 dB
Electric Fields
10 MHz
120 dB
120dB
100 MHz
120dB
Plane-Wave Fields
1 GHz
10 GHz
120 dB
120 dB
100 kHz
Section 7.5
121
Piping
piping, it is shop welded into a plate, and then the plate is field welded. The two-step
setup procedure is highly recommended since it is very important that the weld around
the pipe be of the very highest quality and be done under controlled conditions. The
field weld also must be very carefully done. A 2 in. overlay between the penetration
plate and the shield is recommended since this will provide a waveguide-beyond-cutoff
effect, thus enhancing the shielding effectiveness of the enclosure. The pipe should have
connections on either side of the wall, and the outside connection may require a dielectric decoupler installed so as to isolate the enclosure from the rest of the building.
160
150
= 5 * 1.0.
'~
140
130
,'
~ 110
w
~en 100
~
>
.~
80
,
,
I
\ ~ 0.5"
70
~ 60
:.c
Qi 50
:c
en
\'
90
Q)
ffi
"'" i\.
\ \\
\
\ \~ \
\0.25"
\ \
~\
\
iii 120
Q)
~ ~~~
~0.75"
40
1"
30
20
10
o
10 kHz
100 kHz
1 MHz
10 MHz
100 MHz
1 GHz
Frequency
10 GHz
122
Chapter 7
RF Gasket
11 in min I
Thread
1.5 in
l-
-r
0.5 in
Weld or Braze
Shield
RF
Gasket
Honeycomb
Core
(Brass)
1116 in Cell Size
> 10 GHz Operation
Air Fitting
RF
Gasket
Thread
Weld or Braze
T
r--1in~
~--Shield
not stressed. If copper foil is used, then the plate should be made of brass and then
solder sealed to the foil on the wall. If other foils are used, then it should be RF taped
into place with a high-performance shielding tape. These techniques are illustrated in
Fig. 7-27.
Section 7.5
Piping
123
Shield
Insu lation
---t
..--~
D = 3d
Installati on
by Mechanical
Inside
Shield ing
-t-I
Installation by
Shielding Install er
8 Diameters
or 12 in. Wh ichev er
is Greater
--t-I
_
Installati on
by Mechan ical
Outsid e
Shi eld ing
2 in
Ma x
6 in M in
Schedule 40 PVC
Pipe Sectio n
RF
Shielding
- - - - - ----1
Typical Wet Pipe & Drain Penetr at ion
Figure 7-25A
124
Chapter 7
Inside
Shielding
Outside
Shielding
Installation by Shielding
Installed by Mechanical
24 in Min
6 in Min
Fire Protection
4:JPiPing by Mecha1nical
RF08 M22
RF
Shielding - - - - - - . ...
Figure 7-258
Section 7.7
125
Shielded Windows
RF Panel
Copper
Tub ing
13 /16 in .
I~
-\
RF Panel
Flanged Brass
Hex Nuts
----tnT
1\\\\\\\\\
\
11 \\11\ 1 \\
I 111 I
Wavegu ide W it h
Cont inuou s N.P.T.
Tapered Ends
Thr eaded Type
Chapter 7
126
Foil
Solder
Outside Shield
Brass Plate
Inside Shield
Dielectric Union
Where Required
Metal Union
Nut
Metal Clamp
Screws as Required
Clearance Hole
in Metal Bracket
Solder
Section 7.8
127
----------- T
Shield
128
Chapter 7
100
90
80
Spectral
Characteristics
70
60
c:
'Ci)
V)
'E
50
c: 40
V)
.=
30
20
10
0.35
0.60
0.85
1.10
1.35
1.60
1.85
2.10
UV Visible
I
Near Infrared
Wavelength (um)
m 100 -
90
-~ - " , -
80
70
60
.~
~
:
~
Q)
50
40
30
20
10
_r---. ~~
-- ~"'"" ""
r-i"lIIIII
~ ~
~ ~I-~ ~
~ ~~
jIIIl
-......
~ ~~r-~~r-~
~r---
~~
~~
100 kHz
, MHz
10 MHz
100 MHz
1 GHz
..
r-- ...
5 {liD
10 HID
10 !lID
10 GHz
Section 7.8
129
120
110 ~~ ~
~~
r----..~
100
NSA 73-2A
~~
20 x 20 in Aperture
90
80
'-
70
<,
-,
-, r-,
60
50
40
<,
~
30
20
10
lOOK
10K
1M
10M
100M
1G
10G
Frequency
120
I I
110
I I
NSA 73-2A
Magnetic
100
90
)V
80
(
./
70
,,/
60
50
40
30
20
20 x 20 in Aperture
,/
",
~V
10
10K
lOOK
1M
10M
100M
1G
Frequency
lOG
Chapter 7
130
7.9 REFERENCES
[1] U. S. Patent 4 490 710.
[2] C. Robinson and E L. Helene, "Satisfying NSA 65-6 shielding requirements without shielded doors," ITEM. pp. 198-208, 396-398, 1989.
CHAPTER 8
Electromagnetic Filters
8.1 INTRODUCTION
Electromagnetic filtering is required on all wiring that enters a shielded enclosure. All
electronic equipment can be sources of interference or can radiate signals which can be
picked up and decoded. What may be a desired signal in one path may be an undesired
signal or "noise" in another path due to inadvertent coupling. A relatively small arc
associated with power switching may result in a serious disturbance to a sensitive (i.e.,
lower power level) circuit. All electronic devices can be a source of interference.
Conducted interference is interference that propagates through a metal conductor
such as wiring or any metallic structure. This includes all forms of electrical equipment
such as transformers, inductors, capacitors, and power distribution equipment. A wire
that carries interference also produces interference in the radiated environment.
Conducted interference is controlled in shielded enclosures by means of electromagnetic filters. All wires that pass through a shield must be filtered. The design of the
filter is a function of the type of service being performed by the wiring. These roughly
break down in three areas: power line, communication, and control line filters. Each of
these types will be discussed in detail in the following sections.
An electrical filter is a network of lumped or distributed circuit elements such as
resistors, inductors, capacitors, or their equivalents or any combination of the various
elements. These networks offer comparatively little opposition to certain frequencies or
de, while blocking or shorting out the passage of other frequencies.
Chapter 8
132
L/2 = 1 h
1n
Electromagnetic Filters
L/2 = 1 h
10
10 log (1
+ F 2) dB
(8-1)
= 3t f R C
f = frequency in Hz,
where F
L= 2h
CI2 = 1 f
CI2 = 1 f
1H
Section 8.3
133
Filter Characteristics
I
I
I
I
Ii
.....
Source
n
...J
Optional
Load
I
I
I
I
I iI
L
Optional
Source
10
Load
F=
1T
f . UR
134
Chapter 8
Electromagnetic Filters
8.3.8 Temperature
The filter must be able to withstand the environmental operating ranges of the installation. Also, the design must be such that the internal temperature rise is held within
certain limits for a given load.
Filter Specifications
Section 8.4
135
8.3.9 Reliability
Filter component reliability must be commensurate with the associated equipment
requirements. Generally, the reliability should be high with respect to other equipment. Site faults in EMI filters may be more difficult to locate than faults in other
components.
1. Rating. These filters are designed for continuous operation at rated current and
voltage.
2. Operating Temperature Range. These filters are designed to operate over a temper3.
4.
S.
6.
7. Insertion Loss. The filters shall meet the specified insertion loss when measured in
accordance with MIL-STD-220A and at full-rated load.
8. Seal. The filters shall withstand the seal test specified when tested in accordance
with MIL-STD-202, Method 112, Test Condition B.
9. Barometric Pressure. The filters shall withstand the barometric pressure specified
when tested in accordance with MIL-STD-202, Method 105, Condition C.
Chapter 8
136
Electromagnetic Filters
10. Terminal Strength. The filters shall withstand the pull test as specified in paragraph
12.
13.
14.
IS.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
Comment: The bulk of the above tests is only required on newly designed filters.
The key tests that must be performed are the breakdown tests since these will eliminate
any potential faulty components in the construction of a given filter. Certificates of
Compliance are adequate with regard to most of the above requirements. Further discussion will be given in the following section on what should be specified in a procurement document.
In addition to the above specification, NACSIM 5203 requires that bleeder resistors be installed such that the residual voltage is reduced to 50 V or Jess within I min
after the filter is disconnected from the source of the supply. NACSIM 5203 also specifies that the individual filter shall be mounted in a ferrous filter cabinet which has a
clean end formed by a welded barrier plate within the filter cabinet.
Section 8.5
137
MIL-F-15733
UL 1283
277/480 V ac
2200 V de for 60 s
Short Circuit
No Requirement
138
Chapter 8
r
D
Warning :
RF Flang e Must
Be in Contac t w it h
Shield ing (Flange
Nut Must Not Be
Used to Fasten
Junction Box to
Shield ing I
BI
-r~ I--
" . ,16;0.
Electromagnetic Filters
R,'
Jun ction Box or W irew ay
and Lock Nut
ii L
: ~--::..J
-r:..~
Tw o (2) W ir es
36 in Long , Typi cal
.--------
-(t,,-
~--==:J
I
I
I
I
Nameplat e
Removabl e Cov er
I ..
I
I
I
I
!i
o
o
o
o
B
Removable
Ind iv idua l
Phase Filters
Figure 85
140
130
Above
120
co
110
100
en
90
c
(1)
>
";:;
80
~
(J)
f/)
(1)
CJ
70
(1)
C)
60
50
:0
CD
40
(J)
30
:.c
jlf
""Q.;
tJ&A../
120 dB
j"
sr
'v/
/
v'j
/
I
- - - - - o - f--
20
10
1 kHz
10
kHz
100 kHz
1 MHz
10
MHz
100 MHz
1 GHz
10
Frequency
Duo-Shield Filters
Mounted to Both Inner
and Outer Shields
--~~~-+t-+-.-++t-~
Conduit BIO
GHz
Electromagnetic Filters
Chapter 8
140
Type
Telephone
Impedance L-L
600
L-G
Voltage, Max
Current, Max
dc Resistance
Passband
Insertion Loss
Frequency Range
Communication
600
50 n
25 n
300 0
300 0
400 V de
400 V de
200 V de
125 V ac
125 V ac
500 mA
30 V ac
IA
500 rnA
<60
<60
<10
0-4 kHz
>100 dB
14 kHz-IO GHz
0-4 kHz
>100 dB
14 kHz-IO GHz
0-3.5 kHz
>100 dB
50 kHz-IO GHz
Baud Rate*
Impedance, L-L
L-G
Voltage, Max
Current, Max
de Resistance
Passband
Insertion Loss
1.2K
9.6K
6000
6000
300 0
300 0
400 V de
125 V ac
400 V de
125 V ac
400 rnA
400 rnA
<150
<1.2 0
0-24 kHz
>100 dB
150 kHz-IO GHz
0-3 kHz
00 dB
14 kHz-IO GHz
128K
1240
620
400 V de
125 V ac
IA
<0.25 0
0-256 kHz
>100 dB
5 MHz-IO GHz
*2.4. 4.8. 19.2. 38.4. and 56K baud rates also available.
Section 8.8
141
Low Z
160
80
100 V de
1.5 A
<0.50
>100 dB
14 kHz-IO GHz
4.0 kHz
High Z
320
16 n
100 V de
1.5A
<0.5 n
>100 dB
14 kHz-tO GHz
4.0 kHz
Low
Impedance, L-L
L-G
Voltage, Max
640,
320,
400 V dc
125 V ac
IA
<2.0
>100 dB
Current, Max
dc Resistance
Insert ion Loss
Frequency Range
Cutoff Frequency
14 kHz-IO GHz
3.5 kHz
High
1500
75 0
400 V de
125 V ac
IA
<0.7
>100 dB
14 kHz-IO GHz
3.0 kHz
Low
Impedance, L-L
L-G
Voltage, Max
Current, Max
de Resistance
Insertion Loss
Frequency Range
Cutoff Frequency
100,
50
125 V de
High
1000
500,
4.0 A
400 V de
400 rnA
<0.30
>100 dB
14 kHz-IO GHz
1.0 kHz
<9.00,
>100 dB
14 kHz-IO GHz
2.0 kHz
The correct filter is the one that matches the impedance of the input of the device being
filtered. Generally, the service is either a high-impedance or a low-impedance device.
Check the device's specifications prior to selecting a matching filter.
All of these types of filters are available as units that can be grouped in a single
cabinet or mounted separately.
8.9 REFERENCE
[1] D. R. 1. White, Electrical Filters, Synthesis, Design, and Applications. Don White
Consultants, 1980.
CHAPTER 9
Enclosure Performance
Specifications and Testing
9.1 INTRODUCTION
Shielding performance specifications specifically refer to the shielding effectiveness of
a shielded enclosure, that is, the amount of attenuation of unwanted energy required
versus the type of field (electric, magnetic, plane wave, or microwave) and frequency.
Generally, a curve for the three fields is given in a figure, and then spot test frequencies
with their respective attenuation requirements are given by field type.
Several government specifications are used to specify shielding performance and
its measurement. Among these are MIL-STD-285, NSA 65-6, and NSA 73-2A. The
IEEE has a measurement standard on shielding effectiveness testing known as IEEE299. These documents are used extensively in the preparation of specifications for the
procurement and testing of shielded enclosures.
The purpose of these standards has often been misinterpreted or misused by architectural engineering firms designing shielded facilities, general contractors installing the
facilities, and test companies certifying their compliance. This has led to the improper
construction and testing of many shielded enclosures.
The first specification of any general use was created by the Department of Defense in 1954 and was known as MIL-A-18123 (Ships). It was superseded by MILSTD-285 in June 1956. A large part of MIL-STD-285 was derived from a specification
known as MIL-S-4957A, which was a specification for screen mesh enclosures written
to procure some rooms for a research project. MIL-STD-285 has remained, to this date,
unchanged. However, MIL-STD-285A is in preparation, and substantial changes are
expected with the new specifications reflecting some of the features of NSA 65-6. NSA
65-6 was published by the National Security Agency in 1964 to fill the need for a very
thorough test of enclosures used for protecting communication systems used in intelligence activities, and it has remained unchanged to date. Finally, another document often seen in shielding work is NSA 73-2A, published in 1972. This specification details
the method of construction and test of aluminum foil enclosures. The performance of
143
144
Chapter 9
these enclosures is in the moderate range of 50 dB. This specification is often called
out for shielded enclosures where a moderate amount of performance is acceptable.
TEMPEST facilities for computers within the continental United States have been found
to be acceptable at this level of shielding.
9.2.2 MIL-STD-285
This specification, written in 1956, is entitled "Military Standard Attenuation Measurements for Enclosures, Electromagnetic Shielding, for Electronic Test Purposes,
Method of."
This document was originally a set of test methods for evaluating shielded enclosures of the mesh screen variety, but it has been adopted for use on all types of
facilities and is limited to the test requirements given in Table 9-1. No performance
curve is given.
The equipment called for in the specification is obsolete. Modern spectrum analyzers, solid-state generators, and broad-band RF amplifiers are now used in shield
testing. The requirement for a calibrated external attenuator is still valid and should be
used. The basic procedures using the specified types of antennas and their separation
distance is the standard method used in all testing. This specification calls for the receiver (spectrum analyzer) to be located inside the enclosure, with the transmitter external. During the calibration of the equipment, the receive antenna is located outside
the enclosure, and the cable is run through a feedthrough connector in the enclosure
wall. The advantage of this procedure is that the sensitive receiver is protected from the
field of the transmitting antenna, and since it is very difficult to provide over 100 dB of
shielding effectiveness in an instrument, it protects the equipment and keeps it operating in the linear part of its operating range.
MIL-STD-285 is the most common method of performing shielding effectiveness
testing, but the number and location of test points are left up to the tester at the time of
the test. The result is that the quality of the testing varies considerably.
TABLE 9-1
Frequency (MHz)
Field Type
0.100-0.200
1.0
18.0
400
Magnetic
Electric
Electric
Plane Wave
70
100
100
100
145
Section 9.2
140
130
120
Qj 110
""0
~ 100
~ 90
U)
~Q)
.~to)
/'
t>
70
.-~----~
~/
80
//
Q)
ffi
~
:c
en
60
H/
50
20
/'
~)'
40
30
PW
.... -
/'
~/
/
..
_~.
10
1 kHz
100 kHz
10 kHz
1 MHz
10 MHz
100 MHz
1 GHz
10 GHz
Frequency
Chapter 9
146
TABLE 9-2
Frequency
Type of Field
I kHz
Magnetic
Magnetic
Magnetic
Magnetic
Electric
Electric
Electric
Electric
Electric
Plane Wave
Plane Wave
Plane Wave
Microwave
10 kHz
100 kHz
I MHz
I kHz
10 kHz
100 kHz
I MHz
10 MHz
100 MHz
400 MHz
I GHz
10 GHz
23
56
90
100
70
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
a method for constructing an aluminum foil shielded enclosure. The performance requirements are considerably lower than the other specifications, and they are illustrated
in Fig. 9-2.
The test frequencies and levels are given in Table 9-3.
iii'
"C
~en
110
100
90
~
Q)
80
.~
(J
70
Q)
ffi
60
50
40
(J)
30
:c
20
H
.,,-'
- - ' .......-
.".--
PW
~ r---....
-,-' -'
-'
~-
1----.--.- ..-
1---- ..
10
o
1 kHz
10 kHz
ioo kHz
1 MHz
10 MHz
100 MHz
Frequency
1 GHz
10 GHz
Section 9.3
147
10 kHz
100 kHz
I MHz
10 kHz
100 kHz
I MHz
10 MHz
100 MHz
400 MHz
1.0 GHz
Field
20
30
40
E
E
50
50
50
50
E
E
P
P
P
50
44
40
fied separately. The document points out the difficulties of performing reliable
measurements from 20 to 300 MHz. Care should be used in specifying this standard in
that it is overkill in terms of the amount of testing required at each test frequency. The
equipment callouts are too specific, it would have been better to generalize and specify
that the dynamic range of the test equipment should exceed the measurement requirement by a minimum of 6 dB. The door test positions are not those which generally
leak, testing should be required in the corners of the shielded doors. Otherwise, this is
a very good measurement standard and should be considered for the testing of new
installations.
Chapter 9
148
in the plans and specifications. In some cases, this is the only way that is acceptable,
especially if the enclosure is to be used for government contract work. However, if the
client is concerned about doing the right shielding job for the problem, controlling costs
on the initial installation, and more importantly, providing a versatile building adaptable
for many uses, then the architect-engineer must seriously consider what is really required in a shielded enclosure performance specification.
Section 9.4
149
9.4.1 Introduction
As discussed above, it is very important that an enclosure be properly evaluated using a
test procedure which will ensure that the enclosure is adequate for its intended purpose.
In Chapter 3, the point was made that an enclosure is only as good as its worst
case leakage location. It was also pointed out that the penetrations in the shield represent the risk, not the basic shield material. Therefore, all penetrations through the enclosure and all seams must be evaluated during the testing phase of the contract. Two
tests are recommended. The preliminary should be of sufficient number and points of
test so that a tight performing room can be assured after all of the final finishes are
applied. Upon completion, an independent final test should be performed and the enclosure certified.
150
Chapter 9
fully considered since what may appear as a leak may be just a change in the homogeneity of the wall materials and not really an energy leak. For a full description of the
tester and its use, refer to Section 9.5.
The bulk of the magnetic field testing is usually accomplished using a pair of loop
antennas. The usual size diameter is on the order of 12 in. These are located 24 in apart
during calibration, and are then placed on either side of the shield and the shielding
effectiveness is recorded. These measurements are usually conducted from 1 kHz to 10
MHz in decade steps.
MIL-STD-285 states that, for the magnetic field, a measurement shall be taken on
all four sides of the enclosure and the minimum attenuation recorded. Measuring the
shielding effectiveness on four sides of a small-screen room may have been adequate,
but with the large structures built today, a more thorough approach is required. NSA
65-6 goes a little further and states that, "Leakage checks must be made all around the
door frame, through accessible joints, around the filters and all around the air ducts. In
addition, the magnitude and location of the maximum signal level emanating from the
enclosure should be found by moving the antennas to at least four locations, preferably
on different walls."
Both of these specifications were written for small enclosures that were being procured at the time the specifications were written. The test methods and specified test
points implied by both of these documents are not adequate representations of a large
shield's performance. When specifying attenuation requirements and methods for verifying compliance, the documents by themselves are not sufficient. Delineation of locations to be tested and specific testing requirements must be added for the shield to be
tested properly. By providing this in the procurement specifications, the contracting
entity can ensure that the shielding effectiveness requirements will be met. This is reflected in the recommended specifications in Section 9.4.3.
In some cases, especially for very low-frequency magnetic testing, a procedure
similar to the method given in IEEE-299 is used. This consists of wrapping the entire
enclosure in a loop of wire which is excited by a generator operating from 100 Hz to
200 kHz. A small pick-up loop is then used on the inside of the enclosure to detect any
leaks in the enclosure shield.
9.4.2.3 Electric Field Measurements. The electric field is measured with the
41 in. rod antenna and, in effect, is a near-field evaluation of the enclosure. The pair of
antennas is located 12 in. on either side of the enclosure walls at the same points as
were specified for the loops. Experience has shown that this measurement only detects
"antenna effects," i.e., if a wire of some length is penetrating the shield, then this test
will detect it; otherwise, the measurement will reflect the dynamic range of the testing
system. MIL-STD-285A, the new revision of the test procedure, recognizes this limitation of the method and is dropping the bulk of the requirements.
9.4.2.4 Plane-Wave and Microwave Measurements. These measurements require that the antennas be located 6 ft or a minimum of two wavelengths apart, and that
the receiving antenna probe the enclosure not less than 2 in. from the surface of the
shield at the same test points as specified for the other field tests. This procedure is still
applicable when a careful set of test points is made for a given shielded enclosure.
Section 9.4
151
9.4.3.1 Introduction. When preparing a testing specification, a number of requirements need to be considered. These are first discussed, and then a sample test
specification is given.
9.4.3.2 Equipment. The equipment available for shielding effectiveness testing
is quite extensive. A variety of receivers and spectrum analyzers, along with a large
variety of signal generators and amplifiers, provide the test technician with many
choices to set up a satisfactory test system. To ensure that an adequate choice is made,
the procurement specification should require that an external calibrated attenuator be
provided with a minimum range of 10 dB over the performance specification. The dynamic range of the test system should have a minimum capability of 6 dB over the
specified performance. During calibration, the linearity of the system shall be demonstrated with the external and internal attenuator and the display on the receiver/
spectrum analyzer. All equipment shall be in current calibration. Table 9-4 is a representative list of equipment that is useful for shielding effectiveness testing.
9.4.3.3 Test Configurations. Figures 9-3 - 9-5 are illustrations of the equipment configurations for a typical NSA 65-6 test. The system configurations for the
magnetic field and electric field are reversed from the plane-wave configuration. This is
because it is quite common for there to exist high-level ambients in these frequency
ranges. Thus, it is best to place the receiver on the inside of the shield, even though
NSA 65-6 requires that the transmitter be on the inside of the enclosure, except in the
presence of high ambients.
MIL-STD-285 requires that the transmitter be located external to the shield for all
configurations. Both methods are accurate. The one drawback to using the MIL-STD285 method is that standing waves are developed as the receive antenna is moved about
the enclosure during the test. This is the result of several leaks phasing in and out, and
it can lead to errors in the measurement. This behavior is primarily noticeable in the
plane-wave measurements.
9.4.3.4 Magnetic Field Measurements. As required by NSA 65-6, the loop antennas are placed parallel to each other at a distance of 24 in. (0.61 m) plus the thickness of the shield under test. The calibrated attenuator is placed between the receive
TABLE 9-4
Critical Parameter
Description
Frequency Range
Spectrum analyzer
Signal source
Signal source
Signal source
Power amplifier
Power amplifier
I kHz-22 GHz
10 kHz-l GHz
2-18 GHz
I Hz-4 MHz
10 kHz-12 MHz
dc-I MHz
152
Chapter 9
rv
12 in Diameter
loop
12in-~~"
-,.....1---12 in
D
Figure 93 Magnetic field test.
41 in Rod
Antenna
k---12 in -------
12in
Section 9.4
153
...-----72 in or
I~
2~---~l~'"
2in
antenna and the preamplifier, which, in turn, is connected to the spectrum analyzer. It is
recommended that an active loop such as the EMCO 6505A be used as the receive
antenna in order to minimize the amount of transmitter power needed to achieve the
required dynamic range.
The output of the transmit system is a CW signal set at the frequency under test.
The calibrated attenuator is set at the required performance level, and the spectrum
analyzer is tuned to the same frequency. A convenient level is established on the display, such as the middle of the scope, and the linearity of the system is checked by
clicking the external attenuator on either side of the set point. A 10 dB change on
the display should occur. The noise level on the display should be at least 6 dB below
the specified performance level. This calibration procedure is performed at each test
frequency.
With the external attenuator set to the specified level and the system checked out,
the transmitting antenna is placed 12 in. from the external surface of the test point, and
the receive antenna is placed 12 in. from the inside surface. The room is sealed and the
attenuation is removed from the external attenuator. The resultant signal level is noted.
If the level is below the reference level, then the point is passed and the level is recorded. If the signal level is above the reference point, then the performance does not
meet the specifications. The reading is noted and the test is discontinued until repairs
are made. If the signal is in the noise, then the point is noted as ~ to the dynamic range
of the system at that test frequency.
154
Chapter 9
The shield is tested at each penetration. The doors are evaluated at a minimum of
six points around the perimeter. The walls and ceiling are tested at points not exceeding
10 ft apart. Seams should be chosen as the preferred test points.
9.4.3.5 Electric Field Measurements. The same procedures are used for the
electric field as described above. The 41 in. (1.04 m) rod antennas are substituted for
the loop antennas. All distances and testing procedures are the same. Filters and
waveguide penetrations should be carefully evaluated during the testing.
9.4.3.6 Plane Wave, 100 MHz-IO GHz. The plane-wave measurements are performed with the antennas located a minimum of two wavelengths apart or a maximum
of 72 in. (1.83 m). The source antenna is located outside the shield (MIL-STD-285
procedure) by two wavelengths or 72 in. (if practical), and the receive antenna is
scanned not less than 2 in. from the inside surface of the shield, with the wall test
points not exceeding 20 ft apart along a given wall. The doors are tested at a minimum
of six points around the perimeter.
9.4.3.7 Microwave Testing. Testing at 10 GHz and above is in the microwave
frequency range, and horn antennas are usually used to improve the dynamic range of
the measurement. These antennas are very directive, and thus alignment of the antennas
on either side of the barrier is critical. Care must be taken to ensure that the worst case
reading is found. This is accomplished by slowly moving the receive antenna in a circular motion about the test point and peaking the signal on the spectrum analyzer. This
point is then recorded as the SE reading. All penetrations must be evaluated at these
frequencies.
9.4.4 Accuracy of Measurements
If the procedures outlined herein are carefully followed, then the accuracy of the measurements is as good as the calibrated attenuator since the antenna gains, cable losses,
amplifier gains, and receiver characteristics are calibrated out of the measurement when
the system reference levels are established. The overall accuracy will be on the order of
2 dB, including antenna positioning.
Section 9.4
155
Chapter 9
156
tenna, and energy will be coupled around the filter and into the enclosure. An improperly installed door handle is often found at this test frequency. Improperly installed
corner pieces in a clamp-up structure often show up at this frequency. Only in extreme
cases do seams leak at this frequency.
The best test frequency of the plane-wave tests is I GHz for preliminary evaluations and troubleshooting. Its wavelength is on the order of I ft, and if a shield has
problems, testing at this frequency generally uncovers it more rapidly than any other
test. Leakage at doors, vents, and strapping is usually found at this test frequency. If the
shims used in the clamping system are not tight, leakage will be detected. As a result,
most experienced testers will conduct a preliminary test at this frequency prior to running a full certification program. If a room is tight at I GHz, then, generally, it will
pass the entire test.
A good method of evaluation is to set up a log-periodic antenna as the source
antenna and use a ridged horn as the receive antenna. The latter is a somewhat directive
antenna which can pinpoint leakage locations. The LPA has a broad beamwidth which
illuminates a large area of the shield, minimizing the number of test points required to
run a thorough evaluation of the enclosure.
9.4.6.5 Microwave Testing. For the purposes of this discussion, we have chosen
to call all frequencies above I GHz the microwave frequency range. Horn antennas are
commonly used at these frequencies, and the shielding behaves differently because of
the narrow beamwidth of these antennas. At these frequencies, shield failures occur if
energy gets into the strapping on one side of the shield, propagates down in the
strapping, and finds an opening on the other side. Bronze wool is often used in the seams
of the clamping system to block this type of leak from occurring. Cracks in the soldering of the bronze door extrusions can cause problems, and poor contact in the door
handle bearing can often result in leakage at the point where the shaft operating the
door passes through the door. Improper clamping of vents, poor welds around piping,
and other penetrations often result in microwave leakage, especially at 10 GHz.
9.4.7 Recommended Shielding Effectiveness
Test Specification
Appendix A-9 contains a recommended shielding effectiveness test specification.
Section 9.5
IS7
as discontinuities to the "sniffer." In order to use the equipment properly, it is necessary to understand its principles of operation.
to4r---
20 ft Max ---~
158
Chapter 9
500/ft2 Large shields should be broken down into sections and tested piece by piece. It
is recommended that each area be tested from two directions, 90 apart. Sections
should also overlap to ensure that all areas of the shield are checked.
Inhomogeneous construction such as surrounding structural beams supporting the
shield can cause anomalous readings. Objects such as large steel beams, sharp corners,
or sniffer lead placement can cause current bunching and lead to false indications.
Where this occurs, the sniffer leads should be relocated and the test repeated. If the
problem repeats and no clear structural problem is evident, then an H-field loop antenna test should be conducted at that point.
The same testing procedures are used for other shielding systems, but care must
be exercised in interpreting the results because, unless the shield is a continuous sheet
of metal such as the welded enclosure, inhomogeneities in the joints exist which may
show up as discontinuities in the shield, but may otherwise provide adequate shielding
effectiveness.
Section 9.8
References
159
placing the yoke across the weld. This single-yoke orientation is probably sufficient for
most situations. The exception might be the floor shield where the shielding effectiveness tests of MIL-STD-285 type tests often cannot be done.
There are also variations on how the particles can be applied. Particles can be dry
or in a liquid suspension-either is acceptable, but dry is preferred because they have
less tendency to be held by surface roughness. Wet particle application may have an
advantage in overhead work. Particles can also be applied during or after the magnetizing operation. The first technique is known as "continuous," while the latter is
known as "residual." The continuous technique is preferred because it is more sensitive. Dry particles are best applied above the test area. This gives the particles an
opportunity to line up with leakage flux as they approach the weld. Excess powder is
removed with low-velocity air. The remaining particles are indications of discontinuities-possible defects. In general, particles should be very fine and have high permeability and low retentivity. The color is chosen to provide maximum contrast.
Magnetic particle inspection can be done from one side of the shield, and if properly conducted, can be an excellent test of both the mechanical and electrical soundness
of the shield welds.
9.8 REFERENCES
[I] G. P Condon, "Shielded enclosures leak detection: A simplified method," ITEM
1989.
[2] V. W. Groh "Shielded enclosure leak detection testing," EMC Technology, vo1. 7,
no. 5, July-Aug. 1988.
CHAPTER 10
Grounding of
Shielded Enclosures
10.1 INTRODUCTION
The grounding of shielded enclosures is a function of technical requirements and government security regulations. If the enclosure is used for communications security or
emissions security (TEMPEST) of data processing equipment, then special physical requirements must be made in the grounding of the facility in addition to the usual
grounding requirements for safety or noise reduction.
161
162
Chapter 10
as well as the cabinets or racks of equipment. Detailed design requirements are available in [1] and (2].
For effective fault protection, a low-resistance path must be provided between the
location of the fault and the transformer supplying ~e faulted line. In a building containing a properly installed third wire grounding network as prescribed by MIL-STD188-124, faults internal to the building are rapidly cleared regardless of the resistance of
the earth connection.
There are many reasons that faults occur; in the power system, they either are a
direct short or an arc in a power distribution system or its associated electrical equipment. These faults can cause a variety of personnel hazards from electrical shock to
fire. Tbe causes of faults range from improper installation to rodents and system age
deterioration.
The grounding conductor (green wire) in a single-phase ac power distribution system in a facility is one of four leads, the other three being the two "hot" leads (black!
red) and the neutral lead (white wire). The green wire is a safety conductor designed to
carry current only in the event of a fault. The "hot" leads are connected to the high
sides of the secondary of the distribution transformer, and the neutral is connected to
the center tap. When a single transformer supplies power for only one shielded enclosure, for fault protection, the neutral lead shall be grounded at the service disconnect
lead on the source side and also at the distribution transformer. A four-wire system
should be used at facilities employing single-phase 115/230 V ac power ground connections. The hot and neutral leads should pass through identical power line filters, and the
safety ground should be terminated in the filter barrier wall, as illustrated in Fig. 10-1.
For wye systems, a five-wire service entry cable shall be employed. The safety ground
(green wire) should be grounded at that point also, as shown in Fig. 10-2. Again, all
wires except the safety wire are connected to filters in order to pass through the wall of
the shielded enclosure.
To protect personnel from exposure to hazardous voltages, all exposed metallic
elements of electrical and electronic equipment are connected to ground with the green
wire. Then, in the event of inadvertent contact between the hot lead and chassis, frame,
or cabinet through human error, insulation failure, or component failure, a direct fault
clearance path is established to quickly remove the hazard.
Primary
Neutral
Grounding
(Green) Wire
Shield
Section 10.2
Grounding Principles
163
Power Entrance Panel
Secondary
Primary Power
Generator
or
Transformer
__- - - - - - L, - - - - - - - - - 1 1 - 0
,.---,.-- L
----11"-0
Neutral
~----
L3
-------I~
'-+-----.......
Grounding (Green)
Wire
Shield
Chapter 10
164
Shield
Clean
End
/_--- /
':::......
of Filter -+-----+-I~ J--d-71-rf--r~--,.r~-Cabinet
./ /,J
r : 1. ./ I //.1. / I /
Ground
/ /~./ }'!':>/.r ~/ y
/ /
/ / I
/ / I
/
/1
..,..--+-,........-.-t=~- Stud
-f---(--(-I- f 1-'--,'- L
I I I I
I I
I I I I : I I
I I I I 1 I I
I
I I I I I I 1
I
I I I I I I I
I F1 I I F2 I I F3 I
-1
o I
-1
I
,..-1
I I
I I
I
I
1/)
I I
1)1
I
I
+-
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I 1/
:
/)
~-f
I /{
I ./(
I .//
LJL.-VL-..Y
Green Wire
If
~und
Signal
to
Earth
Ground
Shield
Dielectric
Coupler
To Ground
Stud
Shield
_______
~.
Dielectric
Layer
Under Shield
Floor
of Parent Bldg.
Chemical
Ground
Unit
165
Section 10.4
Shielded
Enclosure
Grounding Stud
< 1 11 Resistance
, ......1 - - - - -
to Ground
Chemical
-=-~ Ground
Nonisolated Shielded
Enclosure
Where a single-point ground system is dictated for security reasons, the configuration shown in Fig. 10-3 is recommended. Note that all conduits have dielectric
breaks, that the filters are mounted to the exterior of the shielded room, and that an
extra wire is run along with the signal ground to an electrode installed near a chemical
ground connection which is provided for the single-point signal ground. Note also that
the green wire is connected via a stud in the interior barrier of the RFI filter cabinet.
This configuration meets the following criteria.
a. The National Electrical Code for fault protection.
b. The requirement for a single-point ground.
c. Provides a method of checking the ground which is to be monitored and logged
on a quarterly basis.
d. The chemical ground unit ensures that the ground will measure less than 10 {l,
which is the standard requirement. The cables from the enclosure ground connection and the earth ground are selected to have less than 1 n of resistance.
e. The shielded enclosure is isolated from its surroundings by building the shield
on top of a dielectric substrate, and all connections to the shield are isolated using
dielectric breaks in all piping and HVAC systems. All electrical leads are filtered.
166
Chapter 10
Building
Ground Stake
Water
Pipe
Voltage
Source
-------4
Ammeter
1......--- ---4
Voltmeter
~
c
Earth Resistance
sen
'Ci)
Q)
a:
Section 10.5
167
References
10.5 REFERENCES
[1] MIL-HDBK-419A.
[2] C. S. Snow "Grounding of RF shielded enclosures," ITEM 1982.
[3] H. W. Denny "Grounding for the control of EMf," Interference Control Technolo-
gies, 1986.
CHAPTER 11
Design Checklists
11.1 INTRODUCTION
This chapter provides a set of checklists as a guide for developing a complete design for
each of the three basic types of shielding: modular, welded, and architectural. Part of
the material in the checklists refers to normal architectural design considerations required in any facility. Some overlap exists between the three examples, but all three
should be studied prior to finalizing a given specification.
ITEM TO BE CONSIDERED:
1__
Floors: The floor slabs under a shielded enclosure should be
recessed if a flush threshold is desired at a door opening. The depth of the recess
depends upon the floor finishes. The slab must be smooth and level to I/S in.110 f1.
169
170
Chapter II
Design Checklists
2__
Interior Partitions: May not be required if formed by the RF
shielded construction. If standard partitions are to be used, then care must be taken in
their design and installation so that the shielding is not compromised.
3__
Wall Finishes: Care must be exercised in finishing exterior or
interior surfaces of shielded enclosures. The best method is to provide furring channels
for the application of standard wallboard-finished interiors or to provide steel studding
to mount the electrical power and interior finishes.
4__
Ceilings: A conventional suspended ceiling may be used. Special hardware is required to interface with the ceiling of the shielded enclosure.
5__
Door and Frames: All doors, frames, and hardware for doors
in shielded rooms must be part of the complete RF shielded construction.
6__
Enclosure Isolation: If required, the shielded enclosure shall
be isolated from the building or earth ground by constructing the shield on a dielectric
insulator such as a heavy plastic film or sheet, and ensuring that the shield does not
come in contact with the building steel. See Chapter 10 for a discussion on the need for
enclosure insulation.
ITEM TO BE CONSIDERED:
1__
Filters: All electrical power, alarms, HVAC control lines, intercoms, telephone lines, or any other service requiring wiring are to be filtered utilizing electromagnetic filters, each selected for the particular type of service involved. A
full line of these filters is available from a number of sources. Under the electrical
section of the specifications, it should be stated that all power for the shielded enclosure is to be fed through filters installed on the shield. For TEMPEST enclosures, all
filters are to be installed in a cabinet, with provisions for an internal ground stud for the
safety ground. Each leg of the power, including the neutral, shall be fed through filters,
individually or in a common cabinet. Conduits feeding the filters may require dielectric
fittings.
2__
Drawings: The electrical drawings should indicate the requirements of filters by symbol or note. They shall indicate in the details a typical hook up
of the filters from the main feeders and distribution of the electrical conduits within the
shielded rooms. In enclosures where ground detection and isolation transformers are
used, these components must be mounted within the enclosure.
3__
Lighting Fixtures: For EMI enclosures or for enclosures to be
used for EMI testing, incandescent lights are used. Fluorescent-type lighting should
only be used in TEMPEST or communication facilities. These light fixtures should be
specified under the electrical section of the specification.
4__
Grounding: Each shielded enclosure shall be provided with a
ground stud adjacent to the filters on the outside of the enclosure. A size 2/0 AWG
minimum grounding wire shall be provided from the grounding stud to the building or
earth ground. This shall be done prior to power hook up to the filters.
5__
Power Distribution: For the most economical power distribution within the shielded enclosure, only the main feeder should be brought in through
Section 11.2
171
power line filters to a distribution panel inside the shielded enclosure. All internal circuits for conventional distribution should originate from this panel. Only one power
penetration should be made.
6__
Explosive Installations: Light tubes with exterior lamp fixtures
should be considered to prevent RF or electrical voltages from igniting explosives. In
most cases, standard explosion-proof light fixtures are acceptable.
ITEM TO BE CONSIDERED:
1__
Penetrations: The shielded enclosure shall have special penetrations to receive all required mechanical inputs such as water, gas, air, or waste. From
the outside, the mechanical line may require dielectric connectors, and then be attached
to the special fitting in the wall of the enclosure's wall. The attachment shall provide a
metal-to-metal seal both inside and outside the shielded panel. Piping distribution
within the enclosure can be performed in a conventional manner.
2__
Drawings: Mechanical drawings shall indicate on the floor
plan which rooms are to be shielded. A typical detail should be added, showing the
method of connecting building ductwork to the waveguide vents in the shield. Details
should also be provided specifying how pipes penetrate through the shielded walls using
the details provided in this handbook.
3__
Doors: The door schedule should indicate the type of doors to
be used in the shielded enclosure. These should be selected from Chapter 7 and described in the specifications.
11.2.5 Shielding Considerations
ITEM NO.
ITEM TO BE CONSIDERED:
1__
Scope of Work: Ensure that all work necessary to accomplish
the shielding task is properly delineated. The scope should include furnishing all labor,
material, equipment, plant tools, scaffolding, and all incidental and related items to
provide, fabricate, deliver, and test all radio frequency shielded rooms as shown on the
drawings and specifications. Only experienced installers should be used in the installation of radio frequency shielding.
2__
Applicable Specifications: The A-E should select from the
following the appropriate specifications for the installation being specified.
a) MIL-STD-285-Method of Attenuation Measurements for Electromagnetic
Shielding Enclosure for Electronic Test Purposes.
b) NSA 65-6-RF Shielded Enclosure for Communications Equipment: General
Specifications.
c) MIL-STD-220A-Method of Insertion Loss Measurements for Radio Frequency
Filters.
d) UL 1283-Standard for Safety-Electromagnetic Interference Filters.
e) ASTM E90-83-Recommended Practice for Laboratory Measurements of Airborne Sound Transmission Loss of Building Partitions.
f) ASTM E413-73-Standard Classification for Determination of Sound Transmission Class.
172
Chapter 11
Design Checklists
Section 11.2
173
9__
Shielding Panels: The wall, floor, and ceiling panels shall be
rigid laminated panels, faced with heat-treated, annealed steel, treated to resist corrosion without degrading the electrical continuity or RF attenuation. Panels shall also be
of such design that the core material is water resistant. The sheet steel shall be 24 gauge
minimum.
10__
The framing system shall consist of Vs in. thick zinc-plated
steel, a minimum of 3 in. wide. The shapes of the framing members shall provide a
clamping action of panel edges with uniform and constant pressure contact against the
shielding panels. Provisions shall be made for fasteners of a maximum distance of 4 in.;
blind inserts or "weld nuts" are the preferred method of attaching the cadmium-plated
V4-20 screws which should have a minimum tensile strength of 135 000 lbf/in. 2 .
11__
Corners: The corners shall consist of prewelded framing
members or preformed shielded panels.
12__
Mechanical Performance: The deflection of the walls under a
static load of 75 lb applied normal to the wall surface shall cause a deflection not to
exceed V250 of the unsupported span. The RF ceiling shall be supported from the parent
room overhead construction by means of adjustable-type hangers, unless specified
otherwise. The deflection of the panels, including finishes, lights, and diffusers, shall
not exceed 1/270 of the span.
13__
Doors: The door unit shall be factory assembled, consisting
of a removable door leaf, door frame, threshold, hardware, and electrical contacting
strips. The door and frame perimeters shall be rugged and provide for the recessed
contact mechanism consisting of a fingerstock RF gasket held in a groove, making contact with a knife-edge contact on the door leaf. The gasket is to be mechanically
mounted.
14__
Door Hardware: The door hardware shall consist of the following. Two radial and thrust-bearing hinges, with provisions to adjust the door in the
hung position. The locking device shall consist of cam-actuated type latch. It shall be
operable from both sides of the door. It shall have permanently lubricated bearings at
all points of pivot or rotation. Contact with the strike shall be by a cam roller bearing.
With the door leaf at rest with the fingerstock in light contact with the frame, the
mechanism shall, on rotation of the lever handle, draw the door into its final closing
RF-tight position with an operating pressure of not more than 20 lb.
15__
Ventilation: Waveguide-type air vents shall be of such design
as to provide air passage for cooling and ventilation and still maintain the specified
shielding effectiveness. Flexible dielectric connectors shall be supplied on enclosures
requiring isolation.
16__
Mechanical Penetrations: Provide waveguide-type pipe penetrations for all pipes or tubes entering the RF shield. Insulated-type penetrations shall
be used where condensation may occur on the piping.
17__
Electrical Service: All incoming electrical power shall be
provided with UL listed radio frequency filters. The filters shall be provided on each
electrical conductor. The filters shall be designed to attenuate RF energy on the incom-
174
Chapter 11
Design Checklists
ing power by 100 dB from 14 kHz to 10 GHz when tested in accordance with MILSTD-220A.
18__
Ground Provisions: A single-point signal ground shall be
provided by means of a brass stud located as near as possible to the power line filters.
19__
Installation: Only experienced installers should be used in
the installation of RF shielding.
20__
Floor Installation: The floor panels shall be laid on 6 mil
dielectric film placed on the structural floor of the parent room. Over this film, additional I/s dielectric filler material shall be furnished to provide uniform support of the
panels.
21__
Cleaning: All exposed surfaces shall be thoroughly cleaned
of all dirt, finger marks, and foreign matter resulting from handling or installation, and
all areas shall be left free of defects. The edges of all shielding panels shall be thoroughly cleaned prior to the assembly of the shielding.
22__
Preliminary Performance Test: A preliminary test shall be
performed after the enclosure is installed and before any other finishes or building construction are erected within the shielded enclosure. As a minimum, the test should be
conducted at 100 kHz magnetic and 1 GHz plane wave.
23__
Acceptance Test: Upon completion of the facility and just
prior to occupancy, a full test shall be conducted to the applicable performance specification such as MIL-STD-285 or NSA 65-6. A test plan shall be submitted by the installer and approved by the purchaser. The final acceptance test shall be conducted by
an independent testing contractor, and it shall be witnessed by a representative of the
purchaser.
ITEM OF CONCERN:
1__
Shielded Volume: The cost of field welding is very high; thus,
the A-E must carefully consider the total volume, floor space, and types of work areas
to be included within the shielded volume.
Section 11.3
175
2__
Submittals: Define all deliverables such as shielding specialist credentials, welder certificates, material certifications, test reports, and shop
drawings.
3__
Shop Drawings: State that shop drawings of the shielded
enclosure with all details, materials, and erection data shall be submitted to the purchaser for approval. All pertinent details shall be supplied.
4
Welds: Full penetration butt welds or lap welds shall be
used, as illustrated in Chapter 5. Where backing material is required, it is recommended
that it shall overlap by at least I in. on both sides of the weld location.
5__
Welder Qualification: Ensure that welders shall be qualified in the specific procedures as detailed in MIL-STD-248B. Require that welders supply qualification certificates to the builder.
6__
Entries: The method of entry into the shielded enclosure
needs to be selected carefully. High-traffic facilities may require the use of vestibules or
waveguide entrances. Normal traffic or low-use facilities should consider using single
doors, with their performance level consistent with the overall requirements of the
enclosure. A safe guide is to require the doors to be specified to have a minimum of
10 dB performance above that of the basic enclosure.
7__
Door Design: Mechanical design of an RF shield door is
extremely important for maintaining the electromagnetic performance over the life of
the facility. The mechanical strength of the hinging mechanisms and the resistance to
warpage must be demonstrated. See Chapter 7 for suggested methods of evaluation.
Sliding doors with air bladders and steel-to-steel RF seals provide the best lowfrequency magnetic shielding.
2__
Penetrations: All penetrations must be designed to maintain
the integrity of the shield; a note should be made to the drawings to the effect that all
known penetrations are identified on the drawings, and no additional penetrations
should be made without the approval of the purchaser.
3__
Special Door Hardware: When security locks, such as card
keys, are installed in shielded doors, the installation should be conducted by the door
supplier. This applies even if the locks are customer supplied.
176
Chapter 11
Design Checklists
4__
Door Alarms: Emergency exit/equipment access RF doors
should be alarmed to indicate an open condition. Vestibule doors should be alarmed to
indicate when both inner and outer doors are open simultaneously. Electrical interlocks
on vestibule entrances are recommended.
5__
Ventilation Penetrations. Honeycomb vent structures must be
used for these services. The frame of the vent structure must be welded into the RF
shield with continuous seam welds.
6__
Piping Penetrations: For 100 dB performance up through
10 GHz, all piping should be circumferentially welded to the steel liner at the penetration. The penetration stub shall have an unbroken length at least five times the inside
diameter of the pipe, and it shall form a waveguide beyond cutoff with a minimum
cutoff frequency of 15 GHz (inside diameter less than 0.39 in.). Dielectric linings are
not permitted in the penetrating pipe stub. If an adequate fluid flow cannot be achieved
with a 0.39 in. diameter pipe, a honeycomb waveguide insert in the pipe should be used
for penetration protection.
5__
Welding: The quality of the welding sets the performance
achievable by the shielded enclosure. The steel sheets must be assembled into an RFtight shield by continuous welding of all seams, joints, and corners. The metal electrode
inert gas (MIG) process has been found to be the best. The surfaces of the metals must
be prepared by removing rust, scale, and other foreign materials, and completed welds
must be free of slag, gas pockets, wormholes, cracks, or incomplete fusion.
6__
Require that an in-process testing program be provided, and
that all welds shall be 100% tested using the methods described in Chapter 9.
Section 11.4
177
7__
Preliminary Shielding Effectiveness Testing: An empty shell
test should be conducted prior to installing the final finishes. This should include doors
and other mechanical penetrations; a temporary filter installation is acceptable. As a
minimum, a magnetic field test at 100 kHz and a 1 GHz plane-wave test should be
conducted using the procedures of MIL-STD-285 or NSA 65-6.
Final Acceptance Testing: After completion of the RF shield
8__
and all finishes, the entire shielded enclosure should be tested in accordance with the
full performance requirements. The electromagnetic filters should be installed and under
load. An independent testing service shall perform all final acceptance testing using a
contractor-prepared, customer-approved test plan.
9__
Door Frame Welds: Welds between the door frame and the
RF shield are primary shield welds, and they should be inspected in accordance with
the provisions discussed in Chapter 9.
178
Chapter 11
Design Checklists
6__
Doors and Frames: The door performance must be at least
10 dB better than the enclosure requirements. The door frames must be solder sealed
around the perimeter of the frame to ensure an RF-tight installation. This is particularly
true at the door threshold.
7__
2__
APPENDIX A
A-2
No appendix material.
A-3
No appendix material.
179
180
Appendix A
1.0 General
The radio frequency shielded, solid wall enclosure described and specified herein shall
be designed and installed for the containment and/or exclusion of radio frequency energy
and shall be manufactured by a qualified supplier.
2.0 Applicable Specifications
MIL-E-18639A:
MIL-E-8881:
MIL-E-4957A:
MIL-STD-285:
MIL-F-15733:
MIL-STD-220A:
NSA 65-6:
3.0 Materials
All materials used in the enclosure, including all ancillary equipment, shall be new,
undamaged, installed, and used in such a manner that the normal operation does not
affect the specified shielding effectiveness.
Shielding Panels: Shielding panels shall be low carbon electrical steel, zinc clad,
per specification QQ-S-775. All shielding panels shall have a base of % in. CCX exterior grade plywood or equal, unless otherwise specified. Plywood and particle board
ratings shall be in accordance with requirements of the U.S. Plywood and U.S. Particle
Board Associations.
Framing Members: The electrical shielding panels shall be connected to each
other using suitable clamps to provide a continuous electrical bond from panel to panel.
The clamps shall be made of heavy duty, I/S in. steel. Suitable prefabricated plated steel
clamps shall be provided in matched sets to meet the structural and electrical requirements for the walls, ceiling, and floors. Walls, floor, and ceiling shall use suitable
Section 4.1
18t
"hats" and "flats," and all corner sections shall be of a matching HW" and HU"
configuration. The structural framing members shall be electrically and mechanically
secured to each other with a 1/4 -20 plated machine screw installed at 4 in. maximum
intervals along all framing members. The screw shall mate up with a threaded insert or
nut attached to the hat section. All clamping action machine screws shall be set at a
torque of 70-80 in. Ib to assure electrical bonding and structural firmness. All structural steel clamps shall be zinc plated per QQ-Z-235, Type II for maximum electrical
continuity.
All three-way corners shall have suitable assemblies to ensure electrical bonding,
mechanical, and structural strength.
4.0 Construction
The shielded enclosure shall be of the prefabricated, modular type, and shall be fully
capable of being assembled and disassembled without the use of special tools. The
shielded enclosure shall be capable of being assembled/disassembled from the inside.
The completed enclosure, when specified, shall be capable of being electrically
isolated from the parent building floor and walls.
The enclosure shall be rigid and plumb with good installation procedures, and shall
be such that the maximum sag of the ceiling is less than V240 of the ceiling span.
The enclosures will be subjected to various live loads, repetitious usage of the
shielded door(s), and continuous use of the electric power, light, and other accessories.
The design of the shielding system must tolerate these requirements.
The shielded room floor shall be supplied with suitable hardboard subflooring to
provide leveling when necessary, and to provide for electrical isolation from the parent
room floor. When specified (single-point grounding), the subflooring shall be insulated
and moisture protected by a suitable layer of heavy-duty plastic film.
The shielded room floor, when suitably supported by the parent room floor, shall
be capable of supporting a total floor load of 1200 lb/ft".
The completed shield room shall be provided with a suitable floor of asphalt tile in
a neutral color. The tile loading shall be suitable for a loading of 300 Ib/ft 2 and concentrated loads of 1000 Ib on suitable casters. Vinyl tile shall be supplied when specified.
Each shielded room shall be supplied with an instruction handbook and a complete
set of assembly and disassembly drawings.
5.0 Doors
(Select from the door specifications in Chapter 7 the type and size that meet the intended use.)
6.0 Accessories
Vents. (See Chapter 7 for waveguide air vent specifications.)
Grounding. Each shielded enclosure shall be supplied with a permanently installed grounding stud of solid brass or bronze of not less than V2 in. diameter. The
grounding stud shall extend a suitable distance both inside and outside the shielded
enclosure for installation of ground leads. The ground stud shall be provided with its
own washers and locking nuts.
182
Appendix A
1.0 General
The shielded enclosure shall be constructed with prefabricated, modular panels consisting of interior and exterior 3 oz copper and 24 gauge galvanized steel which shall be
electrically isolated to provide maximum attenuation of radio frequency signals. Panels
shall be capable of being assembled, disassembled, moved, and reassembled without
suffering a degradation of shield effectiveness. Panel-to-panel seams shall provide solid,
continuous, low-resistance electrical contact between respective shields. To the extent
consistent with the required dimensions and configuration of the enclosure, all like
components shall be interchangeable. The enclosure shall be self-supporting up to a
width of 12 ft. Enclosures exceeding 12 ft in width shall be provided with a ceiling
support system.
Section 4.2.
Procurement Specification
183
Field soldering and/or welding shall not be required for assembly or maintenance
of the shielding integrity of the enclosure. All accessories and components necessary to
maintain attenuation and other requirements shall be as specified herein. All components shall maintain isolation between shields. There will be no penetrations of shields,
except as specified herein.
3.0 Materials
Shielding materials shall be 3 oz solid copper FED UU-P-147B Type V182, C 1, A,
B, C, or equivalent, and 24 gauge steel zinc galvanized FED QQ-S-775-D, Type I,
Class D.
All frames shall be 13/4 in. thick D-select kiln-dried pine or better in accordance
with FED SPEC MM-L-751-H.
Plywood used for the floor shall be a minimum of Type A-D fir, Type II waterresistant in accordance with FED SPEC NN-P-530 and covered with vinyl tile ComNBS L-T-00345.
Pressure clamp angle bars shall be cold-rolled angles MI020 (Merchant Quality) in
accordance with FED SPEC QQ-S-630 and zinc dichromate plated in accordance with
FED SPEC QQ-Z-325.
Fasteners shall be steel and shall be plated with the same basic metal as that of the
parts connected. When fasteners make contact with steel, they shall be zinc coated or
cadmium plated.
Solder shall be in accordance with FED SPEC QQ-S-571-D Type RA 50 SN and
FED SPEC QQ-S-571-D Type RA 60 SN.
Brass fittings shall be in accordance with FED SPEC QQ-B-626.
4.0 Construction
Panels shall be of wood frame construction, with shielding materials covering one side
of the frame, but electrically isolated from each other. Frames shall be constructed with
plate-forming techniques using wood plates and adhesive to prevent "antenna action"
caused by metal fasteners. Frames shall have cross braces, glued solid at one end and
left floating at the other, so that panels can "work" as ambient conditions change
without degrading shielding integrity and effectiveness.
Panels shall be joined, and their support shall be augmented by specially designed
pressure clamps fastened to the panel, and by cover shield seams to provide continuous,
constant, and uniform shield contact pressure to prevent electromagnetic energy leaks at
seams.
184
Appendix A
5.0 Doors
(See Chapter 7 for a discussion on double-isolated door specifications.)
6.0 Accessories
Filters: The filters are to be "duo-shield" filters as described in Chapter 8.
Waveguide Air Vents: A pair of vents shall be used: one on the interior shield,
and the other on the exterior shield. They should be of brass material as described in
Chapter 7.'
Feedthrough Connectors: Special double-shield connectors shall be used.
Grounding: A standard V2 in. brass grounding stud shall be used, connecting the
two shields together, thus providing a single grounding point.
Electric Field
14 kHz
75 dB
120 dB
14 kHz
Microwave
Plane Wave
450 MHz
120 dB
I GHz
120 dB
10GHz
110 dB
Section 4.3
185
Testing: After assembly, the enclosure shall be tested for shielding effectiveness
per the specifications using MIL-STD-285 test methods at the frequencies specified in
NSA 65-6. An independent experienced test service shall be used, under a separate
contract.
4.3 PROCUREMENT SPECIFICATIONS FOR A COPPER
SCREENED ENCLOSURE
The following specification is suggested for use in specifying copper screen enclosures.
1.0 General
The radio frequency shielded enclosure described and specified herein shall be designed
and installed for the containment and/or exclusion of radio frequency energy, and shall
be manufactured by a qualified supplier.
3.0 Materials
The copper screen shall be 22 x 22 x 0.015 in. copper wire mesh mounted on wood
frames. All wood framing shall be in accordance with FED SPEC MM-L-751-H.
See Section 4.3.2 for remainder of material specifications.
4.0 Construction
Same method as described in Section 4.3.2.
A "kick" panel shall be installed on the lower portion of the enclosure, inside and
out, for physical protection of the screening. A minimum height of 24 in. is recommended.
5.0 Doors
(A suitable door from Chapter 7 should be selected.)
6.0 Accessories
Filters, vents, feedthrough connectors, and grounding studs should be selected from
Chapter 7.
14 kHz
68 dB
Electric Field
14 kHz
100 dB
Plane Wave
450 MHz
100 dB
Microwave
1 GHz
90 dB
10 GHz
50 dB
186
Appendix A
1.0 General
The radio frequency shielded, single-shield enclosure described and specified herein
shall be designed and installed for the containment and/or exclusion of radio frequency
energy and shall be manufactured by a qualified supplier.
3.0 Material
Shielding materials shall be 3 oz solid copper FED UU-P-147B Type V182, Cl, A, B,
C, or equivalent, such as 3 oz copper bonded to sisalkraft paper (see Chapter 6 for
material specifications).
4.0 Construction
Wall Panels: The wall panels shall be constructed from solid wood frames with 3
oz copper exterior surfaces. Interior surface to be treated conventionally. Framing materials shall be in accordance with FED SPEC MM-L-751-H.
Ceiling Panels: The ceiling panels shall be similar to the wall panels. Include
wood frame backing at the light fixture locations. Wood mounting pads shall be provided for the light fixtures. Include structural supports as needed to maintain a span
deflection of less than L/240.
Floor Panels: The floor shall be of one-piece pan construction. This is achieved
by solder sealing the seams between the copper sheets. A covering shall be provided to
protect the copper shield and support the floor covering.
5.0 Doors
(Select from the door specifications in Chapter 7 the type and size that meet the intended use.)
6.0 Accessories
Each shielded enclosure shall be supplied with a permanently installed grounding stud
of solid brass or bronze of not less than 1/2 in. diameter. The grounding stud shall extend
Section 4.5
187
a minimum of 1.0 in. inside and outside the shielded enclosure for installation of
ground leads. The ground stud shall be provided with its own washers and locking nuts.
Air vents are to be 3/16 in. brass cell size, 1 in. thick, as described in Chapter 7.
Magnetic Field
I kHz
20 dB
10 kHz
40 dB
I MHz
80 dB
10 kHz
100 dB
10 MHz
100 dB
Plane Wave
100 MHz
100 dB
3.0 Materials
The flanged gavannealed RF panels shall be die drawn to ensure a proper fit with the
framing system.
The panel tensioner and channels shall be cold formed on roller dies, precision die
cut, die punched, and die notched for a proper fit with the RF panels.
Tensioner screws and spline nuts shall be used to assemble the RF panels and
framing members.
4.0 Construction
The panel sheet flanges fit into the frame channels and are gripped by the panel tensioners. When tensioners are tightened with the tensioner lock screws, the panels are
pulled into uniform tension in all directions, affecting a solid and continuous metalto- metal contact.
188
Appendix A
5.0 Doors
(Doors shall be selected from Chapter 7 and shall be consistent with the performance
capability of the shielding system.)
6.0 Accessories
Electromagnetic filters shall be consistent with the enclosure performance and shall be
selected from Chapter 8.
Venting shall be accomplished using the waveguide-beyond-cutoff honeycomb
structures described in Chapter 7.
A V2 in. diameter brass grounding stud shall be located near the EMI filters.
All pipe penetrations should be compatible with the single-shield concept and have
a supporting structure on one side of the shield, as described in Chapter 7.
1.0 General
MIL-STD-285:
MIL-F-15733:
MIL-STD-220A:
NSA 73-2A:
Section 4.6
189
3.0 Materials
Shielding materials shall be 24 gauge steel zinc galvanized in accordance with Federal
Specification QQ-S-775-D, Type I, Class D.
All frames shall be 13/ 4 in. thick D-select kiln-dried pine or better in accordance
with FED SPEC MM-L-751-H.
Plywood used for floor shall be a minimum of Type A-D fir, Type II water resistant in accordance with FED SPEC NN-P-530 and covered with vinyl tile.
Fasteners shall be steel and be zinc or cadmium plated.
Brass fittings shall be in accordance with FED SPEC QQ-B-626.
4.0 Construction
The shielding panels shall be of wood frame construction with shielding materials covering the exterior side of the frame. Frames shall be constructed with plate-forming
techniques using wood plates and glue to prevent "antenna action" caused by metal
fasteners. Frames shall have cross braces, glued solid at one end and left floating at the
other so panels can "work" as ambient conditions change without degrading the shielding integrity and effectiveness.
Panels shall be joined together by an inside through bolt with a tee nut V4- 20 fastener every 4 in. on center along the seams to provide continuous, constant, and uniform shield contact pressure.
Service panels will be provided with solid sections as required to furnish proper
mounting surfaces for power filters, telephone filters, RF connector, and waveguide
assemblies.
Floor panels shall have cross bracing 12 in. on center with a 3/4 in. plywood overlay capable of supporting a uniform load of 1200 Ib/ft2
5.0 Doors
(Doors shall be selected from Chapter 7, based upon the shielding performance required
and the type of activity to take place within the shielded enclosure.)
6.0 Accessories
Filters shall be of the conventional type, the level of performance consistent with the
shielding system. See Chapter 8 for details.
Waveguide air vents shall be used to supply intake and exhaust air. See Chapter 7
for details.
Grounding shall be accomplished with a 1/2 in. diameter threaded brass grounding
stud located near the filter panel.
Pipe penetrations shall be of the clamping type and supported on one side of the
wall. The diameters and lengths shall be consistent with the recommendations given in
Chapter 7.
All panels shall be set in a straight, true line, with level and even surfaces such
that all panel seams will be in alignment and provide electromagnetically tight seams.
All surfaces shall be thoroughly cleaned of all foreign matter resulting from handling.
All contacting surfaces shall be free of defects which may inhibit good contact between
panels.
190
Appendix A
14 kHz
200 kHz
60 dB
100 dB
Electric Field
10 kHz
100 dB
30 MHz
100 dB
Plane Wave
100 MHZ
100 dB
1 GHz
70 dB
Microwave
IOGHz
60 dB
Section:
Section:
Section:
Section:
Section:
1.3 Shielding Specialist. All work under this section shall be provided by a
"shielding specialist" or under the supervision of a "shielding quality assurance specialist." A "shielding specialist" shall have successfully completed at least five (5)
similar shielding projects within the past ten (10) years. A "shielding quality assurance
A-S
191
specialist" shall have performed the quality assurance program for at least five (5) successfully completed similar shielding projects within the past ten (10) years. The government reserves the right to approve the specialist, based upon information and
references provided as required under paragraph 3.1.
3.0 Submittals
The contractor shall submit data identified in paragraphs 3. 1-3.7.
3.4 Welder Qualification Plan and Qualification Certificates. Detailed procedures used for qualification of welders, as required by paragraph 4.5, and qualification
certificates of personnel approved to perform RF shield welds shall be submitted to the
Contracting Officer.
3.5 Quality Assurance Plan. The contractor's plan for in-progress testing of
welds, complete (empty) shield performance testing, tests of shield doors, waveguides
and honeycomb waveguide panels, filters, surge arresters, RF enclosures, and conduits,
192
Appendix A
special case tests identified in paragraph 7.8, and final acceptance testing shall be submitted for Contracting Officer approval before the start of shield fabrication. The plan
shall establish the general framework of the quality assurance program and shall contain
detailed test procedures as appendices.
Detailed procedures shall identify system configuration for testing, instrumentation
to be used, data requirements, test point locations, and measurement and calibration
procedures.
3.6 Test Reports. Certified test reports, including copies of all original data,
shall be submitted to the Contracting Officer. Any deviations from the test procedures
submitted under paragraph 3.5 shall be discussed. Success or failure of the component
to satisfy the criteria shall be clearly stated, and proposed resolutions of unacceptable
performance shall be presented. It is emphasized that test data, where required, shall be
for the shielding and penetration.
3.7 Maintenance Procedures. Procedures to preserve the performance of the
shielding and penetration protection subsystem and maintain the contractors's warranty
in effect shall be submitted to the Contracting Officer, along with shop drawings required under paragraph 3.3. Revisions of the maintenance plan, if required by as-built
conditions, shall be submitted prior to performance of the final shield acceptance test.
4.0 RF Shield
4.1 Requirements. The RF facility shield shall be a fully welded structure which
provides shielding effectiveness greater than or equal to minimum requirements of (state
requirements). The RF shield shall be constructed for a useful lifetime of at least thirty
(30) years when maintained in accordance with procedures supplied by the contractor.
The shielding effectiveness requirements apply to the finished structure, with all electrical and mechanical penetrations installed and operating.
Finish requirements for the RF shield appear in Section* of these specifications.
4.2 Materials. Sheet stock, welding rods, and other steel elements used to fabricate the RF shield shall comply with ASTM, AWS standards, and other requirements
as specified. The contractor shall certify to the Contracting Officer that materials meet
these requirements. If requested by the Contracting Officer, samples of these materials
shall be submitted.
4.3 Shop Drawings. Shop drawings of the shielded enclosure with all details,
materials, and erection data shall be submitted for approval to the Contracting Officer.
Drawings shall indicate the materials, arrangements, thicknesses, sizes of parts, construction, fastenings, clearances, assembly and erection details, welding procedures,
and necessary interfaces to the work of other trades. Drawings shall have been approved
by a professional structural engineer and bear his seal.
NOTE: Approval by a structural engineer may be unnecessary if the A-E drawings
are very detailed and no deviations are made.
The contractor is permitted to make minor deviations from the drawings to improve
performance or producibility or to decrease cost. Such deviations shall be explicitly
identified in the shop drawing and are subject to approval by the Contracting Officer.
*Fill in as required.
A-5
193
Such approvals, however, do not relieve the contractor of his obligation to conform to
all performance specifications.
Upon completion of the project, shop drawings shall be updated to show "asbuilt" configurations, and they shall be resubmitted.
4.4 Welding. The steel sheets shall be assembled into an RF-tight shield by continuous welding of all seams, joints, and corners. The metal electrode inert gas (MIG)
process or other government-approved method shall be used. The surface shall be prepared by removing rust, scale, and other foreign materials, and completed welds shall
be free of slag, gas pockets, wormholes, cracks, or incomplete fusion.
Full penetration butt welds or lap welds shall be used, as shown in the drawings.
Where backing material is required, it shall overlap by at least 1 in. on both sides of the
weld location.
Qualification Test for Welders. Qualification certificates for the welders shall be submitted to the Contracting Officer. Any welder producing an excessive number of unsatisfactory welds shall be retested and recertified or released.
4.6 In-Process Testing. The contractor's quality control plan shall include testing of 100% of all RF shield welds as described in paragraph 7.2. The plan shall address the procedures by which the contractor ensures that all welds are tested and that
all defective welds are repaired and retested.
4.7 Complete (Empty) Shield Performance Testing. The contractor shall conduct measurements of the shielding effectiveness provided by the RF shield immediately
after the shield has been completed, but before the concrete wear slab, interior finishes,
and duct work have been installed. The testing shall be performed in accordance with
procedures described in paragraph 7.3.
NOTE: This test requirement imposes some constraints on the entire construction
sequence. It is strongly recommended, however, for two reasons: 1) access for measurements is unrestricted at this time, and 2) deficiencies can be identified and repaired
while the shield is still completely exposed.
The government may wish to employ an independent test laboratory to perform the
complete shield and final acceptance tests.
194
Appendix A
All known penetrations are identified on the drawings in the shield penetration
schedule. No additional shielding penetrations shall be made without the approval of the
Contracting Officer.
5.2 Main Personnel Entryway. The main personnel access into the shielded facility shall be via a shielded vestibule as detailed in the project drawings. The shield
shall be constructed in accordance with Section 4 of these specifications. All penetrations of the vestibule shield shall be protected as specified elsewhere.
NOTE: Alternative personnel access methods are discussed in Chapter 7. Since
the entry doors are the most used and abused component of a shielding system, careful
consideration should be given to their selection.
5.3 RF Shield Doors. All RF shielded doors shall provide at least 10 dB in
excess of the enclosure shielding effectiveness requirements. Compliance with this requirement shall be demonstrated as required by paragraph 7.4.
Emergency exit/equipment access RF doors shall be alarmed to indicate an open
condition.
Welds between the door frame and the RF shield are primary shield welds and
shall be inspected as required in paragraph 7.2. Final acceptance testing of shielded
doors shall be included in the acceptance test of the RF shield.
Mechanical and hardware requirements on RF shield doors appear in Section* of
these specifications.
5.4 Ventilation Penetrations. All ventilation penetrations shall be protected
with honeycomb waveguide-beyond-cutoff panels with cutoff frequencies no less than
34 GHz. The frame of the honeycomb panel shall be welded into the RF shield with
continuous seam welds.
Maximum allowable pressure drops are as follows.
Inches of water:
0.015
FtJrnin:
400
(Multiply by area to obtain CFM.)
0.025
0.042
600
800
0.065
1000
0.30
2000
5.5 Piping Penetrations. All piping penetrations of the RF shield shall be circumferentially welded to the steel liner at the penetration. The penetration stub shall
have an unbroken length at least five times the inside diameter of the pipe, and it shall
form a waveguide-beyond-cutoff with a minimum cutoff frequency of 18 GHz.
5.6 Waveguide Penetrations. Waveguide penetrations for dielectric fibers or
hoses shall be implemented in the same manner as piping penetrations. No conductors
(wires, fiber cable strength members, conductive rubber, etc.) shall pass through the
waveguide opening.
5.7 Electrical Penetrations. All electrical wiring penetrations of the shield shall
be protected with filter/electrical surge arrester (ESA) assemblies.
The enclosure for the filter assembly shall be a two-compartment RF enclosure, as
shown in the drawings, designed and tested to demonstrate compliance with the shield*Fill in as required.
A-5
195
(NOTE: There are two kinds of power filters, generally known as "X" and "W"
series, on the market. The "X' " series filters are designed to achieve rated insertion
loss under load when tested in accordance with MIL-STD-220A using extended range
buffer networks. "W" series device data sheets will not contain the phrase "tested
using extended range buffer networks," and may not satisfy the stated performance
under full load at frequencies below 100 kHz. "X" series filters can also be differentiated from "W" devices by the fact that they are usually two-three times greater in
weight.)
Consideration should be made of the requirements of UL1283 on electromagnetic
filters; see Chapter 8 for details.
Electrical surge arresters shall be installed on the "dirty side" of each filter on
HEMP facilities. The static breakdown voltage of surge arresters shall be between 150
and 200% of the maximum operating voltage on the associated circuit. Dynamic breakdown voltage shall not be less than 5000 V at a transient voltage ramp rate of 1 kVIns.
Extreme duty discharge current shall be at least 65 kA in circuits with a lightning
threat, 20 kA in other circuits, and 10 kA in control and communication circuits with
less than 28 V.
The conduit from the filter assembly to the RF shield shall be a rigid steel conduit,
circumferentially welded at all joints and at the penetrations into the RF enclosure and
RF shield. These circumferential welds are primary shield welds, and they shall be
inspected as required by paragraph 7.2.
6.0 Special Cases
This section is used to allow for special cases such as equipment located outside the
shield, but which must be attached to the shield and still maintain the enclosure's
shielding effectiveness. Appropriate performance specifications and quality assurance
provisions must be provided for each special case.
7.1 General. All testing required by this section of the specifications must be
documented with test procedures and test reports as required by paragraphs 3.5 and 3.6.
It is emphasized that certifications of specification compliance alone do not satisfy
these requirements.
The contractor shall notify the Contracting Officer at least two weeks prior to the
performance of these tests. The government reserves the right to witness all required
tests.
196
Appendix A
NOTE: It is strongly recommended that qualified government representatives witness in-factory, as well as on-site, tests.
7.2 In-Process Weld Testing. All seam, joint, and corner RF shield welds, door
frame and honeycomb panel frame welds to the primary shield, piping and conduit
welds, and other welds in the shielding and penetration protection subsystem shall be
tested for quality using one of the following methods.
7.3 Complete (Shell) Shield Testing. Upon completion of the shield, but before
starting interior work, the contractor shall perform a preliminary shielding effectiveness
test of the shield. As a minimum, this test shall consist of SELDS or "sniffer" testing,
H-field loop antenna measurements, and plane-wave sweep tests.
7.3. / . The sniffer test conducted at approximately 100 kHz shall be conducted by
driving the entire shield in sections not larger than 500 ft2 Sections shall overlay
by at least 20%, and each section shall be driven from two perpendicular directions. All
welds shall be probed for leaks.
7.3.2. H-field loop antenna measurements shall be taken in accordance with NSA
65-6 or MIL-STD-285 procedures to supplement the sniffer test. Testing shall be
conducted at all penetrations. Door frames shall be tested at a minimum of ten (10)
points around each frame.
7.3.3. A complete plane-wave sweep test of the shield shall be performed at
1 GHz using the procedures defined in MIL-STD-285 or NSA 65-6.
7.4 In-Factory Shielding Effectiveness Tests of RF Doors. All RF shielded
doors with 120 dB shielding effectiveness requirements shall be tested by MIL-STD-285
procedures or in accordance with a contractor-prepared, government-approved test plan
to demonstrate compliance with requirements of paragraph 5.3. These tests shall be
completed after all mechanical tests have been completed.
A-S
197
198
Appendix A
3.0 Materials
The following materials are to be used in the construction of the shielded enclosure.
The aluminum foil shall be a minimum of 0.0059 in. thick and meet the requirements of FED SPEC QQ-A-1876. The width shall be a minimum of 36 in.
The shielding tape shall be a minimum of 2 in. wide, be embossed, and meet the
following typical requirements.
Thickness: 0.0042 in.
Tensile Strength: 25 lb/in.
Adhesion to Steel: 35 oz/in.
Electrical Resistance Through Tape: 0.00 1 O/sq
Fungus: Inert
4.0 Installation
The foil is installed by applying a good grade of contact adhesive to the surface of the
space to be shielded and to the back of the shielding foil. The layout should be made
and the adhesi ve applied so that a 6 in. overlap occurs at all seams and the seam is
metal-to-metaJ (no adhesive between layers). The shielding tape is used to seal the
joints.
5.0 Doors
The doors for foil installations should be of the modified industrial door design as discussed in Chapter 7. The door frames must overlap the aluminum shielding material
completely around the perimeter of the door frame and then be taped.
6.0 Accessories
The various accessories must be mounted in plates and then taped into position on the
enclosure walls. Support for piping, waveguides, and filters must be provided external
to the shield. A variety of penetrations for foil shielded enclosures is discussed in Chapter 7.
.
Section 6.2
199
3.0 Materials
The shielding material shall be a plastic lamination of 3 oz copper foil to high-strength
extensible kraft, tridirectionally reinforced with fiberglass scrim. The material shall
conform to the following specifications.
1.
2.
3.
4.
200
Appendix A
4.0 Installation
The foil is installed by applying a good grade of contact adhesive to the surfaces of the
space to be shielded and to the back of the shielding foil.
The material is supplied in rolls measuring 5 x 120 ft. Sheets are cut to conform
to the surface of the space to be enclosed. Corner units are made by forming 24 in.
wide material into 12 x 12 in. 900 bends. These can run the entire length of a wall.
Three-way corners are preformed. All of the material is applied to the room surfaces
with a waterbased vinyl wall covering adhesive. The copper sheets are to be butted at
the joints, with no overlap.
All seams are sealed with the solder-coated copper conductive tape 2 in. wide. The
tape must be applied to a clean surface. Surfaces to be taped shall be cleaned with a
solvent such as methylene chloride, MEK, or toluene. (Be sure to take proper precautions when handling these chemicals.) After cleaning, the surface is to be lightly sanded
to ensure a good bond between the tape and copper sheets. After surface preparation, a
noncorrosive flux is applied to the bond line. The tape should then be soldered in place
utilizing an industrial iron at a minimum temperature of 4500 F. The iron is held to the
tape until the solder is melted. The edges of the tape must be smooth and in complete
contact with the copper sheets. Any ridges in the edges of the tape must be soldered
utilizing a 50/50 solder.
5.0 Doors
A knife-edge door or similar high-performance shielded door should be selected from
Chapter 7. Care must be taken to see that the door frame is connected to the shielding
foil with a continuous metal-to-metal seal around the entire perimeter of the door.
6.0 Accessories
Filters, grounding studs, pipe penetrations, and vents should be selected from those
described in Chapter 7.
10kHz
30 dB
200 kHz
50 dB
Electric Field
Plane Wave
10 kHz-50 MHz
100 dB
Microwave
100Hz
80 dB
Section 6.3
201
3.0 Materials
The copper clad alloy shall consist of a layer of copper on either side of a minimum foil
thickness of 0.008 in. of a permalloy material commonly designated as alloy 49. The
overall thickness shall be a minimum of 0.010 in. The material shall be provided in
rolls 2 ft wide x 50 ft long or 100 Ib, whichever applies.
Preformed two-way and three-way corners shall be provided with a minimum leg
length of 2 in.
A 2 in. wide solder-plated tape shall be used. The solder shall melt when a 450 0 F
soldering iron is applied to the seaming tape.
4.0 Installation
The material is supplied in rolls. The preformed corners are installed using an
industrial-grade contact adhesive. The sheet material is cut to butt to the corner materials and edge-to-edge along the walls and across the floor and ceiling. It is recommended that the floor be installed first and then covered with plywood. Once the sheets
are adhered to the wall and ceiling, then the seams are sealed with the solder-plated
shielding tape. Any ridges in the tape must be sealed with solder.
5.0 Doors
High-performance doors consistent with NSA 65-6 performance shall be selected from
those described in Chapter 7.
6.0 Accessories
High-performance accessories shall be used in the construction of this shielding system;
these are described in Chapter 7.
202
Appendix A
3.0 Materials
The galvanized sheet metal shall be in accordance with ASTM A-52?, G90. The seam
cover strips are to be 6 in. wide, the backing strip made from 26 gauge and the cover
strip from 24 gauge. The cover strip is prepunched with two rows of 3/16 in. diameter
holes 2.5 in. apart, staggered 1.25 in., at 2 in. on either side of the center line of
the strip.
The 3/4 in. plywood shall be an AID grade in accordance with the U.S. Plywood
Association standards.
The screws shall be hexhead drywall type, 5/8 in. long. They shall be cadmium
plated. A good grade of steel is recommended to minimize the risk of twisting the
heads off during installation.
4.0 Installation
The space to be shielded is enclosed using conventional metal or wooden studs. The
latter are recommended if the shield is to be electrically isolated from the parent building. The entire interior surface is covered with the 3,4 in. plywood. The seam pattern is
laid out on the plywood, and seams shall be located 12 in. from all corners, floor,
ceiling, and walls. The remainder of the seams are located on 48.25 in. centers across
all six surfaces of the space. The length of the panels is a function of the material used
and the convenience in handling. The corner material is installed using 90 0 bends with
12 in. legs. The three-way corners are shop fabricated and solder sealed. The backing
strips are installed using small nails or staples. Next, the shielding panels are installed.
These can be held in place by a few drywall screws if care is taken to ensure that a
metal-to-metal seal is obtained. The cover strips are then instaJled along with the shims
at the junctions of the cover strips. Torque guns are recommended, using a preset torque
consistent with the type of screws and materials used. It is essential that the screws be
pulled up as tightly as possible so that a compression seal is obtained at each screw.
5.0 Doors
Standard high-performance shield doors using the knife-edge design are recommended
for use with the sandwich seam shielding system.
Section 7.1
203
6.0 Accessories
High-performance penetrations should be used with this form of shielding.
204
Appendix A
Door Panel: The door shall be a minimum of 4 in. thick, laminated with 24
gauge galvanized steel. A suitable knife-edge treatment shall be provided on the perimeter of the door leaf.
Door Frame: The door frame shall be of one-piece construction, with a minimum
clear opening of 36 x 84 in. unless specified otherwise. A suitable pocket housing the
fingerstock shall be provided in the frame.
Mounting Hardware: A set of mounting hardware shall be provided for clamping
the door frame into the rough opening of the shielded enclosure. This shall be of the hat
and flat geometry unless specified otherwise.
4.0 Installation
The door shall be installed by an experienced installer who has a minimum of three
years' experience in RF shielding using the installation hardware supplied by the manufacturer of the door.
1.0 Scope
The door shall be side hinged, swinging, with electrically isolated solid metal shields
on wood frames. The door shall be hung from three chrome-plated Delrin bearing
hinges, each to be fastened with nine # 12 x 2 in. long wood screws to framing to
provide sag-free mounting. The door opening shall be 36 x 84 in. (unless otherwise
specified) and equipped with an inside 28 in. panic-type bar handle.
3.0 Materials
Jambs: The jambs shall consist of dressed, kiln-dried, 13,4 in. thick wood frames
covered with 24 gauge galvanized steel on the interior and exterior, and shall be electrically isolated from each other.
Fingerstock: Two rows of heavy-duty alloy 510 Grade A spring temper bronze
contact finger strips, in accordance with ASTM 8103, shall be mounted around the
periphery of the door, with their respective planes mutually perpendicular to provide
leak-free contact with interior and exterior enclosure shields and maintaining electrical
isolation between interior and exterior shields.
Section 7.3
205
4.0 Installation
The door shall come preassembled, and shall be installed by an experienced installer,
one who has a minimum of three years' experience in RF shielding.
1.0 General
The shielded door shall consist of an electrogalvanized door and frame delivered as one
assembly.
206
Appendix A
3.0 Materials
Custom Hollow Metal Doors: Provide custom hollow metal doors where nonstandard steel doors are indicated. Door size(s), design, materials, construction, and
finish shall be as specified. Steel sheet shall be a minimum of 16 gauge.
Door Construction: Doors, frames, and gasket retainers shall be formed from
electrogalvanized steel sheets conforming to ASTM A-591. Work shall be assembled
using all welded construction conforming to pertinent requirements of AWS D1-1.
Frame corners shall be mitered and welded. Both doors and frames shall be supplied
with all necessary internal hardware reinforcements. Frames shall be supplied with adjustable anchors for built-in expansion shields for bolt-in installation. When bolt-in construction is specified, frame shall be provided with prepunched and dimpled mounting
holes.
Door RF Gasketing System: Each door frame shall be equipped at the head and
jambs with EMI gaskets. The gasket shall be installed in a retainer that allows the
gasket to be adjusted to attain maximum shielding effectiveness. The bottom of the door
shall be equipped with a Monel knitted wire EMI gasket in a retainer that permits
adjustment. A continuous strip of shielding tape (tin-copper) shall be bonded to the
inside perimeter face of door at the sides and top where EMI gaskets make contact. The
RFI door bottom gasket shall seal against a bronze low-profile threshold.
4.0 Installation
The door shall be installed by an experienced installer who has a minimum of three
years' experience in RF shielding using the installation hardware supplied by the manufacturer of the door.
The door and frame shall be finished in accordance with ANSI/SOl 100. The final
finish shall be two coats of low-gloss enamel in accordance with the color plan for the
installation.
5.0 Quality Assurance
The RF door performance shall be a minimum of 10 dB higher than the enclosure requirement. This shall be demonstrated in a factory test prior to shipment. A minimum
of ten test points shall be taken around the perimeter of the door using the procedures
outlined in NSA 73-2A.
7.4 PROCUREMENT SPECIFICATIONS FOR
2.0 SPECIFICATIONS
NSA 65-6.
Section 7.5
207
3.0 MATERIAL
The door frame shall be welded cold-rolled steel, a minimum of 12 gauge and shall be
plated after fabrication. The periphery of the door opening shall be free of protrusions
made by latches, locks, or other devices. The inner perimeter of the frame shall be
continuously bonded with an electromagnetic coil situated in an RF-shielded pocket.
Electrical contact between the door frame and door leaf shall be accomplished by magnetic attraction of the door leaf to the contact strips of the coil pocket. No solder,
fingerstock gasket, or other fragile components shall be employed in the construction of
the frame.
The door leaf shall be fabricated using a solid piece of steel, a minimum of 18gauge thickness, bonded to a supporting structure, to a finished leaf thickness of approximately 11/ 4 in. The door leaf shall be sized to overlap the electrical contact strips
when the door is in the closed position. The door leaf shall be constructed in a manner
which allows mounting of the opening devices, hinges, and other items without
through-bolting or other penetrations which might limit the shielding effectiveness of
the door leaf.
The hinges shall be heavy-duty load-bearing allowing the door leaf to engage the
electrical contact strips in a flush manner, with minimum rubbing or chafing of the
contact surfaces. A minimum of three hinges shall be provided for 3 x 7 ft/doors or
otherwise specified in the contract.
The door shall be provided with an exterior opening device utilizing a pull-type
handle mechanism designed to comply with all requirements of the uniform building
code. The exterior opening device shall incorporate in its design an electrical switch
which shall cause the electromagnet to de-energize whenever the opening device is activated.
A set-up mounting hardware shall be provided for installing the door within the
shielded enclosure, if for a welded enclosure then a suitable sheet metal interface shall
be provided compatible with the installation.
4.0 INSTALLATION
The door shall be installed by an experienced installer who has a minimum of three
years experience in RF shielding using the installation hardware supplied by the manufacturer.
208
Appendix A
each to be fastened with nine # 12 x 2 in. long wood screws to framing to provide
sag-free mounting. Door opening shall be 36 x 84 in. (unless specified otherwise) and
equipped with an inside 28-in. panic-type bar handle.
3.0 Materials
Jambs: The jambs shall consist of dressed, kiln dried, 1~ inch thick wood
frames covered with 24-gauge galvanized steel on interior and exterior and be electrically isolated from each other.
Fingerstock: Two rows of heavy duty alloy 510 grade A spring temper bronze
contact finger strips, in accordance with ASTM B103, shall be mounted around the
periphery of the door with their respective planes mutually perpendicular to provide
leak-free contact with interior and exterior enclosure shields and maintaining electrical
isolation between interior and exterior shields.
Latching System: The latching system shall be accomplished by a three-point cam
pressure contact system, operable from the interior and exterior of room. The latch shall
be provided with gravity-spring interlock to prevent latching mechanism contact from
striking the jamb as the door is being opened or closed. Interior and exterior handles
shall be electrically isolated from each other.
4.0 Installation
The door shall come preassembled and be installed by an experienced installer, one who
has a minimum of three years experience in RF shielding.
Air conditioning and heating ducts shall be installed through the walls and ceiling of the
shielded enclosure with specially constructed vents using steel or brass honeycomb material a minimum of 1 in. thick.
Section 8.1
209
3.0 Materials
Frames: The frames shall be a minimum of 2.5 in. wide, made of zinc-plated
steel, I/S in. thick. The hole pattern for the clamping hardware shall have a maximum
spacing of 2 in. Heavy-duty V4-20 hardware shall be used to assemble the clamping
structure.
Honeycomb: The honeycomb structure shall consist of 1010 steel ribbon formed
into hexagonal cells and then solder plated. The material shall be a minimum of
1 in. thick.
Mounting: The honeycomb shall be mounted in a frame so that a good metalto-metal seal is obtained around the perimeter of the honeycomb structure. This may
take the form of aframe soldered to the honeycomb or the clamping structure shall be
designed to provide a good seal.
4.0 Installation
The honeycomb vent shall be installed by an RF shielding contractor with a minimum
of three years' experience.
1.0 Scope
The filters specified in this section shall be supplied by the shielded enclosure manufacturer and mounted under the supervision of the shielded enclosure installer.
210
Appendix A
Wire Connectors and Soldering Lugs for Use with Copper Conductors.
Electromagnetic Interference Filters.
3.0 Materials
Radio Frequency Filters: Provide the filter units specified on the facility drawings. The units shall be designed to reduce conducted RF energy in the electrical power
line according to MIL-F-15733 and UL 1283 for facility-type power line filters. Insertion loss between the load side of the filter and the power supply side shall be not less
than 100 dB from 14 kHz to 10 GHz.
Filter Units: Each filter unit (insert) shall be capable of being mounted individually such that a replacement is readily possible, and it shall include one filter for each
phase conductor of the power line and neutral conductor.
Enclosure: Filter units shall be provided in an RF modified NEMA Type 1 enclosure made of steel of not less than 14 gauge with welded seams. The enclosure
shall be hot tin dipped after fabrication and welding.
Internal configuration: The load terminal compartment shall be separated from
the power input compartment by a solid steel barrier plate of the same gauge as the
filter unit enclosure, extending across the entire width of the enclosure. The power
input compartment shall house the individual power line filters and the power input
terminal of the filters.
Individual filter mounting: The load terminal end of the individual filter cases
shall be attached to the RF barrier between the' two compartments. An RF-tight
seal shall be provided between the filter case and the barrier. The load terminals of
the filters shall project into the load terminal compartment. The case of each filter
shall be attached to the enclosure to prevent stress being applied to the RF seal
between the filter case and the RF barrier plate.
Neutral connection: When the neutral conductor is not filtered, it shall be routed
through the enclosure and connected to a stud welded to each side of the RF barrier plate so that the neutral is electrically connected to the filter unit enclosure.
Conduit connections to enclosures: The load terminal and power input compartments shall have no knockouts, and each compartment shall have one threaded
conduct hub. The hubs shall be seam welded in place, and shall be sized and
located as required for the conduits per the purchase order.
Access openings and cover plates: Access shall be from the front of the enclosure.
The access opening for the load terminal compartment shall provide clear access to
Section 8.1
211
the filter load terminals and the standoff insulator terminals or insulated terminal
blocks specified herein. The power input compartment opening shall provide clear
access to the filter power input terminals and the standoff insulator terminals or
insulated terminal blocks specified herein. It shall also allow easy removal of the
individual filters from the enclosure. Provide two access cover plates. One plate
shall cover the access opening to the load terminal compartment only, and when
secured in place, shall provide an RF-tight seal with the compartment it covers.
The second access cover plate may abut or overlap the cover plate for the load
terminal compartment and shall cover the power input compartment. An RF gasket
shall be provided for the load terminal compartment. The cover plates shall be
secured with bolts having a maximum spacing of 3 in. Access cover plates shall be
made of steel not less than 14 gauge, and the finish shall be the same as specified
for the enclosure. Plates shall be attached so they may be easily removed and replaced.
RF attenuation requirements for load terminal compartment: The load terminal
compartment shall provide an attenuation of not less than 100 dB to radiated RF
energy from 14 kHz to 10 GHz, with the individual power line filters mounted and
the access cover plate attached.
Filter Connections: Individual filters within a unit shall be equipped with insulated terminals, and shall incorporate suitably sized flexible leads from the insulated
filter terminal to standoff insulator terminals or insulated terminal blocks. The standoff
insulator terminals or insulated terminal blocks shall be mounted in the terminal compartments. Solderless lugs shall be provided for connecting the phase and neutral wires
to the filter units. The lugs shall be of the hex head bolt or screw type and shall conform to UL 486A. Live parts shall be spaced in accordance with NFPA 70. Filter leads
shall be copper.
Individual Filters
Filter construction: Individual filters shall be sealed in a steel case. After the
filter is filled with an impregnating or encapsulating compound, the seams shall be
welded. When a solid potting compound is used to fill the filter, the filters may be
mechanically secured and sealed with solder. Hermetically sealed impregnated capacitors shall be used, or the complete filter assembly shall be vacuum impregnated. Individual filter cases shall be fabricated from not less than 16 gauge steel
and finished with a corrosion-resistant plating.
Impregnating or potting compound: The filter shall be filled with an impregnating or potting compound meeting the requirements of MIL-F-15733 and having a
flash point for operating range B as defined in Table VIII of MIL-F-15733.
Overload requirements: Provide as specified in MIL-F-15733.
Current rating: Provide filters to ratings specified in the shielded enclosure requirements.
Passband: The passband shall be suitable for use with the 60 Hz power source.
Total harmonics generated by the insertion of a power line filter shall not increase
the line voltage distortion more than 2.5% with a unity power factor load.
Voltage rating: As required for the circuits specified. de (resistive) voltage drop
through the filter shall not exceed 0.5 V when the filter is operating at rated cur-
212
Appendix A
rent. The 60 Hz ac voltage within the resistive load variations from + 10 to 100%
rated load shall vary not more than +1- 1% of the rated line voltage at a unity
power factor.
Drainage of stored charge: provide filters with bleeder resistors to drain the
stored charge from the capacitors when power is shut off. Drainage of stored
charge shall be in accordance with NFPA 70.
Temperature rise: Temperature rise shall not exceed 25 C when operating at full
rated load in a free-space environment equivalent to that specified in MIL-F-15733
with an ambient temperature of 65 C. When filters are mounted in an enclosure as
specified herein, the temperature rise of the hottest filter shall not exceed 40 C at
full load when operating in an ambient of 65 C. All components of the filter shall
be suitable for continuous full-load operation at a temperature of 125 C without
derating.
Dielectric withstand voltage: Provide filters which, as a minimum, conform to
the value of dielectric withstand voltage of UL 1283.
Marking of Filter Units: Provide manufacturer's nameplate of each filter unit,
stating its rated current, rated voltage, operating frequency, number of phases for which
it is designed, manufacturer's name, total filter unit weight, and model number. The
nameplate shall be mounted on the filter unit to be visible after installation without
removing the cover plates or disturbing the interior parts or wiring. Each individual
filter case shall be marked with the rated current, rated voltage, manufacturer's name,
type of impregnating or potting compound, operating frequency, and model number. In
addition, individual filter cases and the filter enclosures shall be durably marked by the
manufacturer with the following: "WARNING: Before working on filters, terminals
must be temporarily grounded to ensure discharge of capacitors." Nameplates and
warning labels shall be attached with epoxy, rivets, or sheet metal screws.
Section 8.1
213
upon the final shield effectiveness requirements. For example, a welded enclosure
should not exhibit any discernible reading on the most sensitive scale. A 100 dB clamp
up should not have any reading exceeding midrange on the most sensitive scale, etc.
A preliminary test of the enclosure shall be performed after the entire shield has
been installed, including all power line filters, air vents, doors, and other penetrations
of the shield. The testing shall be conducted prior to the installation of any interior
walls and finishes. The tests shall be conducted at 150 KHz magnetic and I GHz plane
wave as a minimum. Any deficiencies in the shield will be brought to the attention of
the general contractor at this time. Corrective measures shall be taken and the area
retested to verify compliance. The following test points are where the measurements
shall be performed for both the preliminary and final acceptance tests. All pipe penetrations, filter penetrations, and waveguide vents must be tested. The shielded doors
shall be tested at a minimum of six points around the perimeter of the frame. The walls
shall be tested at 10ft intervals at seam locations for the magnetic and electric fields
and 20 ft for the plane wave.
A final report shall be prepared and submitted within ten days of completing the test.
All test data sheets shall be included as an appendix to the report. The data shall be
summarized in a table showing the worst case data point at each frequency for each
field type. A statement certifying that the test was conducted in accordance with NSA
65-6 shall be included.
APPENDIXB
This publication appears annually as a directory and design guide for the control of
EMI and other electromagnetic effects. A series of design articles is provided, divided
into approximately ten sections. A products and services section is also provided, as
well as a directory of suppliers. Most of the prominent shielding manufacturers and
installers advertise in this annual publication.
215
APPENDIXC
Selected
Bibliography
For those readers who need additional details on a given subject, the following
references may be of assistance.
R. Aronson, "RFI/EMC shielded construction systems, methods and evaluation,"
ITEM, 1980.
S. Austin, "Shielding options for penetrations," ITEM, 1987.
H. Bloks, "NEMP/EMI shielding," EMC Technol., vol. 5, no. 6, Nov.-Dec.
1988.
1. J. Crenca, "Basic design parameters of acoustically treated shielded enclosures," ITEM 1990.
G. P Condon, "Shielded enclosures leak detection: A simplified method," ITEM,
1989.
W. E. Curran, "New techniques in shielding," ITEM, 1984.
- - , "Shielding for HEMP/TEMPEST requirements," ITEM, 1988.
H. W. Denny, "Grounding for the control of EMI," Don White Consultants, 1983.
- - , "Grounding in the design of buildings and facilities for safety protection,"
EMC Technol., vol. 2, no. 1, Jan.-Mar. 1983.
M. L. Eaton, "Shielding: An introduction," ITEM, 1989.
M. Farsi, "EMIJRFI shielding: Theory and technique," ITEM, 1988.
1. Fuller, "Maintenance-free shielded personnel access device," EMC Technol.,
vol. 7, no. 8, Nov.-Dec. 1988.
1. A. Graham, "A new approach to architectual shielding," ITEM, 1990.
- - , "RF shielding: Cost comparisons and tradeoffs," ITEM, 1987.
V. W. Groh, "Shielded enclosure leak detection testing," EMC Technol., vol. 7,
no. 5, July-Aug. 1988.
F. L. Helene, 4' Architectural shielding: Introduction and applications," ITEM,
1990.
- - , "Architectural shielding," a short course, R&B Enterprises, 1989.
217
218
Appendix C
1982.
N. 1. Quesnel, "Architectural shielding keeps pace with changing times," EMC
Technol., Jan.-Feb. 1990.
B. D. Salati and C. 1. Chapman, "Maintenance of aged modular shielded enclosures" ITEM, 1988.
B. D. Salati, "Maintenance of shielded enclosures: Maintaining the configuration
of a single point grounding system," ITEM, 1989.
1. G. Sketue, "Aperture shielding effectiveness," ITEM, 1988.
C. S. Snow, "Grounding of RF shielded enclosures," ITEM, 1982.
- - , "In progress testing of shielded welded systems," ITEM, 1984.
- - , "RF-shielding tape," ITEM, 1987.
G. Trenkler and R. Delagi, "The application of clad metals for EMI room shielding," ITEM, 1988.
1. R. Wamsley, "Facility grounding and bonding: How does it work?," EMC Technol., vol. 8, no. 6, Sept. -Oct. 1989.
D. Weber, "Large shielded anechoic facilities," ITEM, 1980.
1. Weinstein, "An enclosure system that will provide both RF and acoustical attenuation," ITEM, 1987.
D. R. J. White, "Shield design, methodology and procedures," Don White Consultants, 1986.
- - , "Electrical filters, synthesis, design and applications," Don White Consultants, 1980.
- .- , "Electromagnetic shielding materials and performance," Don White Consultants, 1975.
- - , "Electromagnetic interference and compatibility, vol. 3," Don White Consultants, 1973.
D. M. Whiteside, "RF shielding projects: the facilities and procurement manager's
viewpoint," ITEM, 1987.
R. Willich, "Considerations for the integrated design and construction of secure
shielded facilities," ITEM, 1984.
INDEX
A
Absorber. definition, 3
Absorber lined tunnel entrance, 113
Absorption, 16, 18
loss, definition, 3
Acoustic ceiling, 70
Aluminum foil shielding, 76
Ambient level, definition, 3
Anechoic chamber, 10
Antenna:
definition, 3
configurations, lSI
effect, 14, 76, 97, 150, 155
Aperture, definition, 3
ASTM E84-8IA, 172
ASTM E90-83, 171
ASTM E413-73, 171
Attenuation, definition, 3
Automatic RF doors, 115
B
Basic ReM door geometry, 104
Bolt together shielding systern, 47
Black designation,
definition, 179
Bond, definition, 3
Bonding, definition, 3
Butt weld, 58~ 60. 61
c
Ceiling hangers, 71
Ceiling span, 173
Chemical grounds, 165
Classified data processing, 9
Common testing problems, 155
Communication filters. 140
Compression seal, 107
Conducted emission, 8
Conducted interference:
definition, 3, 131
descri bed, 8
Conductive coating. copper
paint, 93
Conductivity, 18
Control line filter, 141
Copper:
alloy shielding, 81
performance, 81
foil shielding, 79
screen shielding, 79
Corner seams, welded, 64
Corrosion, control, 70
Counterpoise, see Ground;
systems
Coupling:
capacinve, 13
definition, 3
far field, 13
free-space, definition, 3
inductive, 13
near field, 13
radiated, 14
Current rating, 134, 135, 137
Cut-off frequency:
definition, 3, 17
equation, 17
D
Data-line filters, 141
Definitions, 3-5, 179
Degradation:
definition, 4
examples, 21
Doors, 100
Double-isolated shield systern, 41
Double knife-edge door, 104
Duo-shield filters, 137
Dye penetrant testing, 159
E
Earth electrode system, definition,4
219
220
Earth electrode system test, 165
Earth ground:
direct method, 165
two terminal method, 165
three terminal method, 165
See also Earth electrode system test
Earth resistivity measurement, 166
Electric field:
coupling, 14
definition, 4
measurements, 150
strength, 163
Electromagnet RF door, III
Electromagnetic compatibility
(EMC), definition, 4
Electromagnetic interference
(EMI), 8
definition, 4
Electromagnetic pulse (EMP), 9
definition, 4
description, 9
Electronic surge arresters
(ESA), 175
EMI, see Electromagnetic in-
terference, definition
Emission, 9
EM~ energy versus frequency
spectrum, 9
Enclosure isolation, 163
Enclosure stability, 40
Equipment shielding, 10
Expansion joints, welded, 66
F
Facility:
definition, 4
shielding, 10
Factor B, 16, 18
FaJl-of-potential method, 167
Far field:
definition, 4
region, 4
Fault:
definition, 4
protection, 161
Federal specifications, 179-213
Fiber optics, 124
Field strength, definition, 4
Filter:
Index
definition, 4
characteristics, 133
communications, 139
configurations, 132
control line, 141
current rating, 134
data, 140
frequencycharacteristics, 134
models, 137
power line, 137
specifications, 135
telephone, 139
theory, 131
transient suppression, 175
voltage rating, 134
Fingerstock gasket, 104
Fire protection:
pipe penetration, 120
systems, 127
Flame spraying, 30
Floor loading, 38
Fluorescent lamp, 8
Foil, pressure-sensitive, 32
Foil, waveguide beyond cutoff. 32
Fraunhofer region, see Far field
Frequency characteristic, see
Filter
G
Galvanized steel enclosure, 36
Gasket, 101
Green wire, 162
Ground:
definition, 4
facility, 163
chemical, 165
multipoint, 164
plane, 161
resistance measurement, 165
rod, 164
single point, 165
systems, 164
vertical rod,
Grounding:
design guidelines, 164
principles, 161
H
Handicap access, 101
I
IEEE 299, 146
Inductive coupling, see Coupling
Inhomogeneous interface, 16
Insertion loss, see Filter
INSTAR shielding system, 90
Insulated pipe design, 122
Interior,
columns, 65
partitions, 96
wall treatment, 96
Internal reflections, 18
Installation, shield, 51
K
Knife-edge door, 103
L
Lap welding, 60
Leakage:
effects, 20
sources, 20
Lightening effects, 13
Lindsay shielding system, 46
Low frequency magnetic
shielding effectiveness, 73
Low performance door, III
M
Magnetic field:
coupling, 13
definition, 4
measurements, 151
Magnetic particle testing, 158
Magnetic permeability, 3
Magnetic shielding of NMI
systems, 45
Metal-oxide varistor
(MOV), 197
Metal-to-metal seals, 10I
Metalized fabrics, 92, 93
221
Index
Military specifications:
MIL-E-4957A, 180
MIL-E-8881, 180
MIL-E-18639A, 180
MIL-F-15733, 135
MIL-HDBK-232, 2
MIL-HDBK-419A,2
Military standards:
MIL-STD-220A, 171
MIL-STD-248B, 175
MIL-STD-285,52
N
National Electrical Code
(NEC):
definition, 5
referenced, 165
Nearfield, definition, 5
Neutral, definition, 5
NMR enclosures, 44-46
NSA 65-6, 145
specifications, 147
test, 148
Pipe design, 118
Piping:
architectural enclosure, 121
modular enclosure, 121
welded enclosure, 120
Plane wave:
definition, 5
measurements, 155
Pneumatic RF door, 108
Power line filters, 137
Purpose of handbook, I
R
Rack and pinion, 101
Radiation, definition, 5
Radiation resistance, definition,5
Radiated emission, see Radiated interference
Radiated interference, 8, 13
Radio frequency interference
(RFI), definition, 5
Recessed contact mechanism
(RCM), 103
Reflection, 16
ReM seal, 103
Red/black concept, definition, 179
Red designation, definition, 179
Reflection loss, definition, 5
RF doors, large, 115
RF door seal requirements, 100
RF-tight, definition, 5
Paint:
conductive, 93
metal filled, 71, 93
Pan weld, 57, 58
Penetration:
control of, 99
definition, 5
design criteria, 99
types, 100
Perfomance:
degradation, 20
welded, 25
SE measurements, accuracy
of, 154
Shield, definition, 5
Shielded enclosure, 35
definition, 5
most common form, 35
performance, 35, 147
Shielded windows, 126
Shielding:
barrier, 13
door, 100
electric, 13
honeycomb, 116
magnetic, 13, 18
microwave, 150
nonwoven material, 92
panels, 36
performance specifications, 144
plane wave, 20
specialist, 176
theory, 13
volume, 55
woven material, 93
Shielding effectiveness (SE):
absorption, 18
aluminum foil, 22
copper foil, 21
definition, 5
galvanized iron, 23
internal reflections, 18
reflection, 16
welded enclosures, 72
Shield material for welded enclosures, 56
Shield seam, see Seams
Shielding requirements, defining, 55, 148
Signal grounds, 163
Signal reference subsystem,
definition, 5
Single point ground, 165
Single-shield modular enclosure, 44
Slab leveling, 169
Sliding RF door, 108
"'Sniffer" testing, 156
Sources of conducted interference, 8
Specifications, military, see
Military specifications
222
Spring finger, see Fingcrstock
gasket
Standards. military, see Military standards
Static pressure drop. 120
Surge suppresser. 175
T
Tape:
conductive. 32
embossed, 32
waveguide cut-off, 33
TEMPEST:
definition, 5
description, 8
Test antenna, 153
Test equipment. 151
Testing requirements:
MIL-STD-285, 144
Index
NSA 65-6, 145
NSA 73-2A, 145
Three-terminal ground test, 167
Total shielding effectiveness, 20
Two terminal ground test, 166
Typical modular enclosure performance. 40
Typical shielding materials, 24
u
UL 1283, 136
v
Vent SE performance, 117
Vestibule:
design, 111
double-door, III
Voltage rating. see Filter
w
Wall-floor corner joint, 63
Waveguide beyond cut-off, 17
Waveguide tunnel entrance, 113
Waveguide vent, 117
Wave impedance, definition, 5
Wavelength, definition, 5
Welded:
pipe design, 124
seams, 25, 56, 58
shield design, 57
Welding, 55
z
Zinc/galvanized modular enclosure, 36