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Whether it is the design of control cabinets in mechanical and plant engineering, the design of industrial robots or automation technology: electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) is becoming increasingly important in all sectors. The reason: electrical machines are being built more and more compactly, they operate closer together and, ultimately, perform increasingly complex tasks. As a result, the amount and speed of data transferred via the cabling are increasing, as are the required frequencies. This causes magnetic fields, which in turn cause interference currents and voltages – the so-called EMC interference.
Error messages, problems with data transmission and even machine failures can be the result. To prevent this, designers of machines and systems develop adapted grounding concepts. The discharge of unwanted currents and voltages must reduce the magnetic fields to a minimum and ensure trouble-free operation. One small, inconspicuous component is of particular importance: the grounding strap. This consists of a braid of copper wires and connects machine and system components where magnetic fields can arise with a reference potential. This allows currents and voltages to easily flow away without affecting the EMC of the system.
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A grounding strap must meet the following requirements:
- High current carrying capacity
- Low resistance and low impedance
- Mechanical strength
- Flexibility
Due to its shape, flat grounding straps are more suitable than round conductors in many cases. They can be easily installed in tight machine housings, are flexible and resistant to tension, torsion and vibration. Grounding straps are also used in the automotive industry – and even in space travel: in 2008, for example, the launch of an Ariane rocket was postponed by one day to check the grounding strap in the space shuttle. This shows how important this small component is.
HELUKABEL offers a wide range range of grounding straps for EMC applications from stock. These are provided with rounded contacts of seamless pressed sleeves and are available in various lengths, with many cross-sections and different tap hole diameters – suitable for a wide range of applications.