Electrical and electronic systems that rely on the use of electrical signals to perform more or less complex functions are not infallible, but (as with living beings) are sensitive to external perturbations. The reliability of electrical and electronic systems is certainly linked to environmental conditions: temperature, altitude, humidity and pressure are all parameters that influence these devices.

A very important parameter, since it can affect the functioning of other systems, is the level of electromagnetic compatibility. But what exactly does this mean?

Electromagnetic compatibility (or EMC) means the ability of a device to be immune to electromagnetic disturbances in its environment.

And what are electromagnetic disturbances?

In this case, these are electromagnetic waves in their broadest definition, i.e. radio waves, microwaves, infrared rays, visible light, UV rays, X-rays and g-rays.

Any type of wave can cause a more or less severe malfunction when it interferes with an electrical and/or electronic system; as the energy of the waves increases, there will certainly be a more intense disturbance phenomenon. Logically, X-rays and g-rays are only available under certain conditions; the vast majority of devices are exposed to weaker waves, such as radio, microwave, infrared and visible light.

The Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive 2014/30/EU regulates this, and imposes it on all devices on the market that are capable of generating electromagnetic disturbances or being affected by them. This Directive is extremely transversal, as it covers devices used in both industrial and civil (domestic) environments.

Since such objects can be assembled into a more complex product, it cannot be excluded that this new system may in fact generate a new type of wave and/or be disrupted by a previously harmless signal.

For this reason, in the machine world, it is good practice to always assess the applicability of the EMC Directive, and if so, to perform electromagnetic compatibility tests according to the installation environment of the machinery.

At Advolo, we provide you with a team of experts in the field of EMC certification, who can assist you from design to adoption of the relevant standards, to certification in accordance with the applicable product directives. Please do not hesitate to contact us for more information at: commerciale@advolo.it