The variety of sizes, shapes and membrane constructions of these vents allow them to be used in a myriad of applications, such as mobile phones and cases, tablets, laptops, cameras, GPS devices, handheld scanners, two-way radios and MP3 players.

Yes, several standards define the type of protection, intensity and exposure time (along with several other metrics) that determine the rating of a device’s resistance to weather and contaminants.

Our family of vents provides dust, splash and immersion protection to enable devices to meet a range of IP standards up to IP68.

The reliable performance of GORE® Portable Electronic Vents is rooted in our unique breathable materials. Our microporous membrane prevents pressure buildup by constantly equalizing the difference in pressure between the inside of the device and its immediate environment. This constant exchange reduces the pressure on device seals. The vent works by allowing air and other gases to pass through the membrane freely while blocking liquids and particulates from entering the device. Our membranes offer varying flow rates and liquid protection.

Gore offers two types of acoustic vents with materials that transfer sound through the acoustic system differently. The resistive material used in vents for dust and splash applications allows sound waves to pass directly through the material. The reactive membrane used in vents for immersion applications responds to and accurately reproduces the sound waves based on mechanical vibration. The performance requirements of your application determine which type of vent is recommended for your device.

The cost of protecting a device depends on its unique form and mechanical features. We collaborate with our customers to create optimum, customized solutions to ensure maximum protection without added costs. The cost of purchasing GORE® Portable Electronic Vents includes our engineering, testing, manufacturing, launch and post-launch consulting. We monitor and strive to improve the performance of our solution. Please contact us for more information.

GORE® Portable Electronic Vents allow air and vapor to pass freely through the membrane in both directions, which reduces potential condensation inside a device. At the same time, the membrane serves as a barrier that prevents exposure to liquid and other contaminants.

Hydrophobic materials protect against high-surface tension aqueous liquids, while oleophobic materials protect against water as well as low-surface tension fluids like oils, soaps and alcohols. Gore offers vents with both hydrophobic and oleophobic membranes, depending on your application requirements.

The environment in which your product is used determines whether you need hydrophobic or oleophobic material. For example, you may require oleophobic material if your device is exposed to fluids other than water such as soap or alcohol. If you have further questions regarding specific chemicals or fluids, contact your Gore sales associate.

Mesh vents are made of a woven membrane that has a uniform pore size defined by the width of the open squares between fibers. This pore size allows particles such as human hair or metal fibers to pass through a mesh vent because of their shape. GORE® Portable Electronic Vents are made of non-woven materials with a three-dimensional structure that captures particles of various shapes and sizes. They are also more likely to maintain consistent airflow because they capture particles in a torturous path not limited by a specific pore size.

Several criteria, such as the type of transducers used in your device, temperature range, immersion requirements and the environment in which the device will be used all affect the choice of venting solution. Our application engineers are dedicated to work with you to identify your constraints, test various alternatives, and assist in product design to ensure that your electronics are protected for the life of your product. Please contact us for more information.

There are a variety of considerations that determine the type and number of vents you need in a device. For example, in a typical acoustic device with separate microphones, receivers and speakers, the location of each component and the mechanical design will determine how many GORE® Acoustic Vents you will need. In addition, you may also need to equalize pressure inside the sealed device with a GORE® Pressure Vent.

Our goal is to maintain a low profile in the device, so we offer our vents in white or dark gray/black to minimize the contrast between the component color and our vent.

All GORE® Portable Electronic Vents equalize pressure while preventing contaminants from entering the device. In addition, GORE® Acoustic Vents are customized to provide optimal sound quality while protecting the electronics. The materials used in these vents transfer sound through the acoustic system differently. The type of acoustic components and the level of sound performance required in your device determine whether we recommend an acoustic vent or a pressure vent.

GORE® Acoustic Vents for dust and splash protection meet industry standards to protect against common environmental challenges such as rain, spilled coffee or being dropped in a puddle. GORE® Acoustic Vents for immersion protection meet industry standards to protect against complete, continuous submersion in water. Gore does additional testing beyond industry standards to ensure that our products can withstand real-world challenges.

Based on almost 30 years of experience with venting technology, we recommend installing the vent on the top or on a vertical side of the device to maximize airflow.

We offer a variety of product forms, and if one of these does not meet your need, our application engineers will work with you to develop a customized solution. Please contact us for more information.

Vents are supplied as cut parts in either roll or sheet form. Our global team will work with you to understand your supply chain and deliver GORE® Portable Electronic Vents in a form that meets your production needs and schedule.

Our data sheets provide specifications for all of our standard parts. Our engineering team will review your specific application to select the correct material, size, stack-up and such specifications as acoustic performance, airflow, water entry pressure, etc.

As a global enterprise, we have sales offices located worldwide. To request information, contact your local Gore sales associate, or fill out the form on our Contact Us page.

Installing the GORE® Portable Electronic Vent consists of a simple three-step process: prepare the surface, position the vent on the device and apply light pressure to the adhesive ring that seals the vent onto the device. A guide for installation and handling is available from our sales and technical support team.

Headquartered in the United States, Gore is a global company with sales offices worldwide. Venting products are manufactured in the United States, Europe and Asia, and we have four international testing facilities ready to assist in developing the right solution for any portable device application.