EMC SHIELDING IN THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY

Safety for modern vehicles

Modern vehicles are highly interconnected: driver‑assistance systems, infotainment, electric drives and control units communicate via complex networks. With the rapid growth of electric vehicles (EV) and advanced driver‑assistance systems (ADAS), high‑voltage components, fast switching electronics and an increasing number of radar systems are significantly increasing electromagnetic interference (EMI) within the vehicle. While this brings comfort and safety, it also creates new challenges – especially regarding electromagnetic compatibility (EMC). The solution: shielding mesh and EMC filters. They protect against electromagnetic interference and ensure that sensitive electronics operate reliably.

EMC describes the ability of an electrical or electronic device to function properly in its electromagnetic environment without causing unacceptable interference itself. In automotive applications, this means: all systems must operate reliably without influencing each other – even under extreme conditions.

Why EMC shielding is indispensable in vehicles

Systems like ABS, ESC, airbags or autonomous driving functions must not be affected by electromagnetic interference. Malfunctions can be life‑threatening.

Electric motors, inverters, radar and communication systems generate electromagnetic fields. Without adequate EMC shielding, these could interfere with other systems.

Vehicles must meet EMC standards such as ISO 11452 or CISPR 25 to be approved. Shielding measures are essential to meet these limits.

Interference in infotainment systems, navigation or wireless communication (Bluetooth, WLAN, cellular) leads to frustration and can result in warranty cases.

Measures for electromagnetic compatibility in vehicles

Metal housings and shielding foils: prevent electromagnetic fields from escaping or entering
Coaxial cables and twisted wires: reduce emissions and susceptibility to interference
Ferrite cores and EMC filters: attenuate high‑frequency disturbances on cables
EMC‑optimized PCB design: improving grounding and separation of sensitive signals enhance EMC performance

Use of shielding mesh in modern vehicles

Shielding mesh offers a balanced combination of high shielding performance, low weight and design flexibility – making it particularly suitable for modern vehicle architectures. Its open structure allows airflow and supports thermal management, which is essential in increasingly compact and thermally sensitive electronic systems. Shielding mesh is used in various areas of the vehicle.

Shielding the engine compartment to prevent incoming or outgoing interference, e.g. lining the engine hood
Integrating mesh into body components as part of the overall shielding concept to maintain a Faraday cage
Protecting critical electronic components (driver‑assistance systems, sensors, etc.)
Shielding of battery packs in electric vehicles to prevent emitted interference from affecting other components

FAQ – Frequently asked questions about EMC shielding in the automotive industry

Fine shielding mesh reflects or absorbs electromagnetic waves, preventing them from penetrating. This ensures that devices work together without disturbing one another electrically or electromagnetically.

Legal requirements such as EMC standards ISO 11452 or CISPR 25 are prerequisites for vehicle approval.

To determine the suitable mesh specification, both the required shielding effectiveness and the installation environment are considered. External influences and the necessary stability or drapability play a role. Besides square mesh weaves with a plain weave, long mesh structures and other types of weave can also be used for shielding. Commonly used materials are copper, stainless steel, or brass.

Mesh can be used to shield individual electronic components such as control electronics or sensors. It can also be integrated into larger body parts or the roof for efficient shielding.
With the rise of electromobility, the shielding of battery housing is also becoming increasingly important.