Abstract

A seal for blocking propagation of electromagnetic energy through a gap between bodies having conductive surfaces at least adjacent the gap includes an elongated core element defining a resiliently compressible cross section which can be molded, extruded or otherwise formed. At least one elongated conductive sheath portion is attached to the core element at a surface of the core element exposed to the conductive surfaces of the bodies. The conductive sheath portion extends only part way around said cross section and defines ends which are spaced on the core element and are non-overlapping. Preferably, at least one additional sheath portion is attached to the core element and extends between the ends of the conductive sheath portions. The conductive sheath can include metal fibers or metallized resin fibers, woven or nonwoven. Preferably, the conductive sheath portion is a metallized fabric and the additional sheath portion is a nonconductive resin suitable for making an environmental seal. The cost of the seal is reduced as compared to a fully-conductively enclosed seal, with the added benefit of improved environmental sealing.

Other References

• Nuccio et al., Conductive Seal for Electromagnetic Shielding, IBM Technical Disclosure Bulletin, vol. 20, No. 1, Jun. 1977, p. 28