Schlegel Electronic Materials (SEM) has been a leading developer of conductive Fabric Over Foam (FOF) gaskets for decades. These FOF gaskets combine a resilient foam core with a conductive fabric outer layer, providing effective EMI shielding, excellent mechanical flexibility, and low closure force for demanding electronics and telecommunications applications.
SEM’s FOF product family includes several conductive fabric options to meet different shielding requirements. Available materials include nickel-copper plated polyester fabrics NiCu-C22, NiCu-C70, and NiCu-C12, tin-copper plated nylon fabric SnCu-C50, and silver-plated nylon fabric Ag-C2. All materials feature Schlegel’s protective coating, enhancing durability, environmental resistance, and long-term performance in EMI shielding applications.
FOF solutions are available with multiple foam core options to meet application-specific requirements. Available alternatives include UL 94 HB and UL 94 V-0 rated foams, an ultra-soft foam option for low compression force applications, and high-temperature silicone foam for demanding environments. These options provide an optimal combination of EMC shielding performance, flexibility, and environmental resistance.
The product range also includes Fabric Over Silicone solutions designed for elevated-temperature environments where both effective EMI shielding and mechanical durability are required. The silicone version withstands operating temperatures up to 125°C while providing low compression force and excellent recovery characteristics. The new flame-retardant silicone formulation meets UL94 V-0 requirements and is halogen-free according to IEC 61249-2-21.
Backed by more than 40 years of product development and manufacturing expertise, SEM’s Fabric Over Foam solutions offer a reliable combination of performance, durability, and design flexibility for demanding EMC and EMI applications.
Technical Summary
Conductive Fabric Options
- NiCu-C22: Nickel-copper plated polyester ripstop fabric
- NiCu-C70: Nickel-copper plated polyester ripstop fabric
- NiCu-C12: Nickel-copper plated polyester plain weave fabric
- SnCu-C50: Tin-copper plated nylon plain weave fabric
- Ag-C2: Silver-plated nylon ripstop fabric
All conductive fabric options feature Schlegel’s protective top coating for improved abrasion resistance, corrosion protection, and long-term conductivity.
Foam Options
- Type 1: UL 94 HB recognized foam for general-purpose EMI shielding applications
- Type 5: Bromine-free UL 94 V-0 recognized foam for enhanced fire safety requirements
- Type 7: Ultra Soft UL 94 V-0 recognized foam for applications requiring very low compression force
- Type 9: Closed Cell Polyurethane Foam, UL 94 HB recognized
- Type S: High-temperature silicone foam, halogen-free (IEC 61249-2-21), UL 94 V-0 recognized, suitable for temperatures up to 125°C
EMI Shielding Performance
- Excellent protection against electromagnetic interference
- Average shielding effectiveness up to 95 dB over the frequency range 20 MHz to 10 GHz (30-110 dB)
- Suitable for high-frequency and 5G applications
Mechanical Properties
- Low compression force
- Excellent recovery characteristics and low compression set
- Suitable for repeated opening and closing cycles
- High wear resistance and long service life
- Conforms to uneven surfaces while maintaining electrical contact
Temperature and Environmental Performance
- Operating temperature range depending on foam type: -40°C to +90°C / +125°C (Fabric Over Silicone)
- Flame ratings: UL 94 HB and UL 94 V-0
- Halogen-free construction available according to IEC 61249-2-21
- Excellent corrosion and environmental resistance
Mounting Options
- Available in a wide range of standard and custom profiles
- Multiple attachment methods: non-adhesive, adhesive-backed, and clip-on designs
- Custom profiles and mounting solutions available
Typical Applications
- Electronic Enclosures
- Telecommunications and networking equipment
- Servers and data centers
- Industrial automation and electronics
- EMC and EMI protected equipment
- High-frequency and RF applications
Key Benefits
- High EMI shielding performance
- Wide range of conductive fabrics and foam materials
- Low compression force
- Long service life
- High-temperature options available
- Designed for demanding electronics and industrial applications
For more information, please contact our sales team.
Explore also the Schlegel Product Guide and the complete Fabric Over Foam product range.