The answers below are intended for early material selection and project discussion. Real-world shielding should be validated in the finished assembly under the intended test conditions.
Why can a small opening matter?
An opening can become a leakage path for electromagnetic energy. The effect depends on opening dimensions, frequency, orientation and the surrounding conductive structure.
How should fabric seams be designed?
Use sufficient overlap and maintain conductive contact along the seam. Depending on the application, conductive adhesive, stitching with conductive overlap, compression, clamps or conductive gaskets may be used.
Is one layer of fabric always enough?
Not necessarily. Multiple layers or folded seams can improve continuity in some designs, but more layers do not automatically solve poor contact, large openings or an unsuitable material.
What should be tested after installation?
Check continuity, contact resistance where relevant, closure performance and the actual shielding result of the assembled product at the frequencies that matter to the application.