Electromagnetic interference (EMI) filters are crucial for a wide
range of equipment and devices. Installing an EMI filter helps them
function as intended and prevent them from interfering with other
devices. Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) is also a key
component of meeting the compliance requirements of global
regulations and many industry standards. For EMI filters to provide
desired performance, they must be installed correctly. Following
best practices for installing EMI filters helps in optimizing their
performance and ensures safe compliance margins for the devices.
While certain best practices apply to almost all EMI filter
installations, the installation process for each filter can be
slightly different. Because of this variation, be sure to consult
the product literature for the EMI filter when installing it or
contact application engineering. With that in mind, here are some
of the most important recommended installation practices for EMI
filters.
The following tips can help ensure proper EMI grounding:
- Use low impedance connections to connect the various parts of the
ground system. Flat wires, for instance, offer lower HF impedance
than round wires do.
- Ensure that all the ground connections are as short as possible.
Consider using a flat, braided ground strap, as these components
provide increased surface area.
- Use the largest available area as the ground conductor. The cabinet
wall is often a suitable surface.
- Removing paint from mounting surfaces of the cabinets can help
achieve a low impedance bond.
- To ensure safety and proper performance, make sure the power system
ground is connected to the filter ground termination point before
connecting any wires.
- Be sure to research and follow all relevant safety regulations
related to grounding.
- Examine all the connections in your low impedance grounding systems
as part of your routine maintenance checks.