Copper is highly conductive, reliable, and widely accepted for RF enclosures. When properly bonded and sealed, it delivers consistent RF attenuation and long-term durability.

RF shielding reduces image artifacts, noise, dropped scans, and failed acceptance testing caused by interference from nearby electronics, radios, elevators, HVAC equipment, and building systems.

Yes. MRI rooms require an RF shielded enclosure as part of standard MRI suite design. Shielding is necessary for the system to meet performance requirements and pass commissioning.

Most projects use one of these:

• Copper sheet RF shield (high performance, common for new builds)
  
• Copper mesh RF shield (often used where installation constraints exist)
  
• Hybrid systems (mesh plus foil or sheet details at seams and penetrations)

RF attenuation is how much the shield reduces radiofrequency signals. It’s usually measured in decibels (dB) across specific frequencies. Higher attenuation means better blocking performance.

The details. Seams, corners, bonding, grounding, and every penetration (HVAC, electrical, sprinkler, medical gas) must be treated correctly. One sloppy penetration can compromise an otherwise perfect room.

An RF door is a specialized door with conductive gasketing that maintains electrical continuity when closed. It’s one of the most common failure points if alignment, hardware, or frame bonding isn’t right.

Waveguide vents allow airflow while blocking RF signals.

Filter panels let power and data pass through the shield without letting RF leak.

A continuous copper layer is applied to walls, ceiling, and sometimes the floor. All seams are overlapped or soldered/bonded, then electrically tested. Penetrations are sealed using approved RF components and detailing.

It’s installed during construction, before final interior finishes. Shielding is typically applied to the room structure, then protected as walls, ceilings, lighting, and finishes go in.

Sometimes, but retrofits are more complex and expensive. Existing finishes must be removed, penetrations reworked, and coordination is tighter. It’s doable. Just not fun.

RF performance is verified with attenuation testing using calibrated equipment across specified frequencies. Many projects also check continuity and bonding before final close-in.

Projects generally follow MRI manufacturer requirements and common RF shielding test practices. Many teams reference IEEE guidance and acceptance testing procedures required by the OEM and installer.

It depends on room size, complexity, and number of penetrations. The shielding work itself is usually faster than the coordination and close-in steps around it.

No. Copper RF shielding addresses radiofrequency interference, not the MRI magnet field. Magnetic shielding uses different materials and design methods.