MEDICAL, MILITARY & INDUSTRIAL ELECTRONICS Why EMC testing matters


for industrial machinery By, Ian Wright, chief engineer at TÜV SÜD


A machine that produces


electromagnetic emissions can only be  electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) if it   their operation. Any machine that emits or   interference.


EMC testing is mandatory in most countries  organisations should ensure their machinery complies. Whilst you’re only legally required to  jurisdiction, this bare-minimum approach  electromagnetic interference (EMI) risks. EMC testing must take place in an authorised setting. This should ideally be a   national regulator, such as UK Market Conformity Assessment Bodies. If a laboratory setting isn’t possible, an authorised EMC  machine installed as desired by its end user  the product goes to market.


 may apply to your product.


Radiated and conducted RF susceptibility


For radiated susceptibility, calibrated test      For conducted susceptibility, calibrated test     frequency (RF) disturbances. The cable lengths are determined by the manufacturer of the EUT.


Electrical fast transient and surge testing


Electrical fast transient (EFT) or burst testing is 


subjected to a series of fast rise time and     


         transients from an indirect lightning strike.


Unintentional radiated and conducted emissions


   of the release of electromagnetic energy   hazards to equipment and personnel.  to damage to other equipment and disruption of communications. Conducted emissions are the effects in   


   the highest frequency points produced by the EUT that are conducted along its main 


Electrostatic discharge (ESD) test Electrostatic discharge happens due to the     


Power frequency magnetic 


This test is critical for determining the  the EUT. For laboratory testing of smaller  the magnetic loop in three orientations, X Y    EUT. Failure to take EMI seriously enough to incorporate it into risk management  EMC testing can be disastrous. Testing of industrial machinery is therefore essential to ensure safety, regulatory compliance, reliable  other equipment.


NOVEMBER 2025 | ELECTRONICS FOR ENGINEERS 27


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