Many EMC projects spend far more on ventilation shielding than necessary.
The reason is simple:
Engineers often over-specify Honeycomb Core Waveguide Panels.
Do not assume the highest shielding performance is always the best solution.
Do not purchase a honeycomb core based only on maximum attenuation figures.
Mistake #1: Choosing the Smallest Possible Cell Size
Smaller apertures generally provide higher attenuation.
However, they also:
- Reduce airflow
- Increase pressure drop
- Increase manufacturing costs
Many projects simply do not require the smallest aperture available.
Do not specify extremely small apertures without defining the actual shielding requirement.
Mistake #2: Selecting Excessive Thickness
A thicker Honeycomb Core Waveguide Panel often improves shielding effectiveness.
However, excessive thickness can create unnecessary complications:
- Increased weight
- Higher shipping costs
- Difficult installation
- Reduced airflow efficiency
More is not always better.
Mistake #3: Ignoring Airflow Performance
Ventilation and shielding must work together.
Many buyers focus only on EMC performance and overlook cooling requirements.
Do not sacrifice airflow for shielding performance that your project may never need.
A balanced design usually provides the most cost-effective solution.
Mistake #4: Ordering Standard Sizes for Custom Projects
Many EMC enclosures, shielded rooms, and electronic cabinets require non-standard dimensions.
Forcing a standard-size honeycomb panel into a custom design often increases installation complexity.
Custom Honeycomb Shielding Cores can often reduce overall project cost and simplify assembly.
Why Custom Honeycomb Cores Are Often the Better Choice
Professional manufacturers can provide:
- Custom apertures
- Custom thicknesses
- Large-size honeycomb panels
- Aluminum honeycomb cores
- Project-specific designs
These options help optimize both shielding effectiveness and airflow.
Honeycomb Core Solutions from Noordin Etech
Noordin Etech provides:
- Bare Honeycomb Core Waveguides
- Honeycomb EMI Vent Cores
- Custom Honeycomb Shielding Panels
- Large-Scale Honeycomb Core Solutions
Explore our solutions here:
https://www.emcnoordin.com/product-category/shielding-materials-and-equipments/waveguide-window/
Conclusion
The best EMC design is not always the one with the highest attenuation value.
A properly selected Honeycomb Core Waveguide Panel should balance:
- Shielding effectiveness
- Airflow performance
- Installation requirements
- Project cost
Do not over-specify your project when a well-engineered solution can achieve the same result more efficiently.
Learn more in our latest blog:
Why Bare Honeycomb Cores Are Not Just Frame-Free Waveguide Vents
