What must be done to ensure proper performance of a dielectric shield?

To ensure proper performance of a dielectric shield, it is crucial for the material to meet SSPC-SP 5 standards, which refer to the "White Metal Blast Cleaning" requirements. This standard specifies the cleanliness and profile necessary for surfaces that will be coated with dielectric materials. A surface prepared according to SSPC-SP 5 guarantees minimal contaminants such as rust, mill scale, or other debris that could impair the adhesion and overall performance of the dielectric coating. Adequate surface preparation is vital for achieving the electrical insulation properties required from a dielectric shield.

The other options, while important in their own contexts, do not directly address the critical requirement of surface cleanliness as specified by SSPC-SP 5, which is essential to ensure optimal performance of the dielectric material. Following SSPC-SP 1 pertains to the removal of oils and contaminants, which is also necessary, but it does not focus on the level of cleanliness required for effective dielectric shield performance. Using a non-toxic material is beneficial for safety but does not directly impact the electrical properties and adherence of the dielectric shield itself. Ensuring thin layers can be important for certain applications, but again, the overall cleanliness and surface preparation governed by SSPC-SP 5 is fundamental for the performance of the dielectric shield.