To understand the true value of shielding it’s important to know the properties it offers.

SHIELDING
Shielding provides protection to cable and wire by increasing both structural integrity and signal integrity. The primary types of cable shields include a foil shield, a box weave or basket weave braid shield, and a spiral shield.

Functions
To understand the true value of shielding it’s important to know the properties it offers.

Reduce Interference
The most effective shielding against interference is a combination of braid and foil shields. From an electrical standpoint, foil will guard against high frequency noise and a braid will guard against low frequency noise. A combination of the two is ideal for signal integrity.

Increase Flex Life
Foil provides a layer of shielding without adding a lot of weight or cost, but when high flex life is required, it may not be the best material. A spiral shield provides more flexibility, but may have a shorter life span in high flex environments. A box weave, while stiffer, will stay together throughout the flex life of the application due to its interlocking nature.

Act as a Barrier
Tapes, wraps, and separators serve as barriers between a cable’s core components and the outer jacket material so that they do not bond together. Shields protect the integrity of the stranding and increase the resistance to damage, noise, and moisture.

Material Options
Each material and type of braid brings different properties and strengths to the table. Configurations to isolate and separate internal components are very customizable.

Foil

• Protects components and/or entire core
• Reduces cross-talk
• Flexible
• Lightweight
• Cost effective
• 100% coverage
• EMI Protection

Drain

• Easy termination
• Grounding

Braid

• Superior structural integrity & physical protection
• Higher flex life
• Mechanical strength
• Slower process
• Can be difficult to terminate
• Reduces cross-talk
• EMI Protection

If your cable is failing due to electromagnetic interference, a short flex life, or too weak of a structure, shielding might be just what you need.

SHIELDING
Ruggedize your cable with shielding

Shielding provides protection by increasing both structural integrity and signal integrity. Selecting the right shielding materials and configurations can add strength, flexibility, and noise suppression.

• Materials like Kapton® tapes are designed specifically for high temperatures while Polyester excels in low temperatures
• Aluminized backing can be used for shielding and insulation
• Binder wraps hold components together to make sure tensions stay the same
• Based on coverage and material, tapes can increase flex life or rigidity
• Wraps and tapes can be designed to protect from moisture and chemicals

Northwire, Inc
Northwire, Inc. is your responsive partner for developing and manufacturing customized technical cables, coil cords and complete interconnectivity solutions.