EMA 2026: New Solutions and Services to Accelerate Product Success

Electro Magnetic Applications, Inc. (EMA) is adding new resources to its toolbox in 2026.

Right now, new capabilities are in development to enhance product analysis for better performance such as:

  • Laser Induced Damage Threshold (LIDT) testing
  • A strontium-90 irradiator added to the SERE lab
  • Development of pulsed current injection EMP capabilities

LIDT Testing

EMA CTO Justin McKennon calls this one of the more exciting new areas of EMA expansion.

Laser induced damage threshold testing measures the maximum level of laser power or energy density an optical component can withstand before it is irreversibly damaged. Damage can include melting, pitting, or shattering of the material.

McKennon says there is a push in optics for smaller, complex lenses making this testing essential for their success.

Laser induced damage threshold (LIDT) equipment.

Fig. 1. Laser induced damage threshold (LIDT) equipment.

Strontium-90 Irradiator

EMA is currently constructing a strontium-90 irradiator for the Space Environment and Radiation Effects (SERE) lab.

Strontium-90 produces a higher energy spectrum of irradiation on samples. This is useful for conducting internal charging investigations. It generates fluxes that are in-situ and slightly accelerated compared to GEO with energies that can go to 2.2 MeV creating electrostatic discharges more internal to the sample.

EMA’s Space Environment and Radiation Effects commercial test chamber, also known as SERE.

Fig. 2. Space Environment and Radiation Effects test commercial test chamber, also known as SERE.

Aerospace Advancements

At the aircraft level, EMA is adding to its physical testing capabilities. This includes adding pulsed current injection (PCI) EMP capabilities in the coming years. PCI is a method used in EMP testing to evaluate the resilience of electronics by injecting a simulated EMP pulse directly into cables connected to the device under test. This is crucial for hardening systems against potential threats.

Additionally, EMA is continuing to mature HIRF and lightning aircraft test capabilities. This will allow scientists to take more measurements in parallel and expedite test campaigns to save customers money and time.

Fig. 3. EMA's in-house lightning generator equipment for physical testing.

Fig. 3. EMA’s in-house lightning generator equipment for physical testing.

Enhance Product Performance

These new advancements are a testament to EMA’s commitment to innovation and customer success. By expanding our testing and analysis services, EMA aims to deliver even greater reliability, performance, and value to your products.

Contact us today to learn more about how these new capabilities can benefit your projects.

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