Honeycomb waveguide
screened ventilation panels

Honeycomb, honeycomb filter, honeycomb grille, honeycomb waveguide, screened air grille, radar grille, ventilation grille, vent panels... and more. There are many different names and concepts for this filter. The purpose of this product is to be able to let air through or out of different spaces in a shielding environment.

Screening ventilation panels - how to choose the right one for your needs

When you need ventilation in a cabinet or box containing sensitive electronics, but still want to protect the equipment from interfering signals, shielding ventilation panels - often referred to as honeycomb vents, EMI grilles or EMC ventilation grilles, for example - are the best solution.

These panels look like a grid with small hexagonal holes, somewhat reminiscent of a honeycomb, hence the nicknames. They come in a variety of materials, such as aluminium, steel or stainless steel, and in many sizes and shapes to suit your particular application. The panels allow air to pass through so electronics don't overheat, while blocking unwanted radio waves and electromagnetic interference (EMI/RFI) that could otherwise interfere with or damage your equipment.

How do I choose the right type?

  • Size and shape: Choose a panel that fits the opening where you want ventilation
  • Materials: Aluminium is lightweight and common for most needs, while steel and stainless steel provide extra durability in tougher environments
  • Shielding effect: If you need extra protection against interference, choose a panel with thicker material or denser cells. As a rule of thumb, a thicker panel with smaller holes provides better protection against interference. To achieve maximum RF attenuation, you should have a 4:1 ratio between thickness and cell diameter. Ideally more
  • Mounting: Different frames and fixings are available, so choose a variant that is easy to install in your equipment

 

Frequently asked questions and answers about our Honeycomb

 

What is an EMI honeycomb waveguide?

  • It is a ventilation panel with small hexagonal holes that let air through but block interfering signals.

 

Why do I need a shading ventilation panel?

  • It protects your electronics from electromagnetic interference while preventing overheating by letting air through.

 

Which material should I choose?

  • Aluminium is lightweight and suits most needs, while steel and stainless steel are best for harsh environments where extra durability is important. 

 

How do I know what size I need?

  • Choose a panel that fits the opening where you want ventilation and keep in mind that thicker panels with smaller holes provide better protection against interference. To achieve maximum RF attenuation, you should have a 4:1 ratio between thickness and cell diameter. Preferably more.

 

Contact Swelex for a quote and tips

Need advice on which shielding ventilation panel is best for your application? Get in touch and we'll help you find the right solution to both protect and ventilate your electronics safely