RF Shielded Doors: Not All Are Created Equal – Lessons Learned and Common Challenges

RF (Radio Frequency) Shielded Doors are a critical component in secure facilities, ensuring compliance with shielding requirements for SCIFs, SAPFs, and other sensitive environments. However, not all RF doors are created equally. With increased demand, manufacturers are struggling to keep up, leading to long lead times, quality inconsistencies, and challenges in specification and installation.

Whether you're specifying, ordering, or installing RF doors, understanding these challenges and best practices can help you avoid costly mistakes, delays, and performance failures.

Manufacturing Building Facade

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Common Challenges with RF Shielded Doors

1. Manufacturer Overload

RF door manufacturers are overwhelmed with backlogs, leading to several issues:

• Long lead times – Ordering early is critical, and mistakes on an order can cause further delays

• Limited customer support – Many manufacturers are slow to answer questions about performance or specifications.

• Unreliable shipping estimates – Delivery dates are often inaccurate, causing project delays.

2. Inconsistent Quality from New Market Entrants

The high demand for RF doors has attracted new manufacturers, but not all of them produce reliable products. Key concerns include:

• Performance gaps – Some doors meet advertised shielding effectiveness but fail at critical bands required by the CTTA (Certified TEMPEST Technical Authority) in the TCR (TEMPEST Countermeasure Review).

• Costly rework and delays – If a door does not meet security specifications, it can result in additional costs, project setbacks, and potential accreditation challenges

3. Incorrect Bidding by Contractors

RF doors are significantly more expensive than standard doors, and contractors unfamiliar with their costs may bid incorrectly, leading to:

• Costly change orders – Underestimating the cost of RF doors can result in unexpected expenses.

• Contract disputes – Pricing errors can cause conflicts between contractors, clients, and project owners.

4. Installation Challenges

Even the best RF doors will fail if installed incorrectly. Common installation mistakes include:

• Poor bonding preparation – Surfaces must be properly cleaned before applying bonding materials.

• Improper use of EMI caulk – Knowing where and how to apply RF EMI caulk is essential.

• Painting over RF contact points – This can disrupt electrical continuity, reducing shielding effectiveness.

• Failure to follow manufacturer specifications – Deviating from recommended installation methods can compromise RF integrity.

5. Acoustic Performance Conflicts

If your project requires both RF shielding and acoustic performance, choosing the right solution is critical. Some RF doors negatively impact acoustic performance, and not all manufacturers offer a dual-rated door that meets both requirements effectively.

6. Maintenance and Long-Term Performance

RF doors require ongoing maintenance and quality assurance to ensure they continue performing as intended. Over time:

• Shielding effectiveness can degrade due to wear, environmental factors, or improper maintenance.

• Routine inspections and testing should be part of a long-term maintenance plan to maintain compliance with security requirements.

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Best Practices for RF Door Selection and Installation

1. Consult an Expert

RF shielding is complex, and small mistakes can lead to big failures. Working with professionals who understand RF doors can save time, money, and compliance headaches.

2. Choose Reputable Manufacturers

Stick with established manufacturers who have a proven track record of delivering high-quality RF solutions. Avoid new or untested companies that cannot provide reliable performance data.

3. Request RF Lab Test Results

Do not rely solely on advertised performance. Ask for certified RF lab test results that verify the door meets all required shielding effectiveness criteria as outlined in the TCR by the CTTA. Some doors perform well at many frequencies but have weaknesses at others, which can lead to security vulnerabilities.

4. Order Early and Budget Wisely

Plan for long lead times, and ensure your project budget includes the high cost of RF doors to avoid unexpected change orders or delays.

5. Ensure Proper Installation

• Work with installers who understand bonding, caulking, grounding, and manufacturer specifications.

• Verify that the door frame, gaskets, and seals are installed correctly to maintain shielding effectiveness.

6. Consider Acoustic Needs

If your project has both RF and acoustic performance requirements, carefully evaluate door specifications to ensure they meet both shielding and soundproofing needs.

7. Plan for Ongoing Maintenance

• Regular testing and QA are critical to maintaining long-term shielding effectiveness.

• Inspect bonding surfaces and seals regularly, as degradation over time can reduce performance.

• Train maintenance personnel on proper RF door care, including gasket maintenance and periodic RF testing.

8. Be Aware of Common Failure Points

RF doors can fail due to:

• Worn-out hinges and latches that cause improper closure.

• Degraded RF gaskets and seals leading to RF leakage.

• Installation errors such as improper grounding or incorrect frame alignment.

9. Test Before and After Installation

If possible, conduct a post-installation RF test to confirm compliance.

10. Budget for Spare Parts & Long-Term Support

Many RF door components, such as gaskets, hinges, and seals, have long lead times for replacement. Keeping spare RF-rated parts on-site can prevent downtime in critical facilities.

11. Ensure Integration With Other Security Systems

RF doors are often used in SCIFs, SAPFs, and secure government spaces, meaning they must work alongside physical security systems, intrusion detection, and access control. Ensure that the RF shielding does not interfere with security electronics or operational needs.

12. What to Do If an RF Door Fails a Test?

If an RF door fails post-installation testing, common troubleshooting steps include:

• Cleaning and checking bonding surfaces

• Replacing worn or damaged gaskets

• Inspecting and adjusting, tightening hinges latches and seals

Final Thought

A properly installed RF door is only as good as its design, manufacturing quality, installation, and long-term maintenance. If you’re new to RF shielding, partnering with experts can help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure compliance with security standards.

If you need guidance on selecting, installing, or maintaining RF doors, contact us today!