Shocking Facts About Static Electricity in Manufacturing Processes

Phil Black - PII Editor 18/07/2015

298 1 minute read

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Static electricity adversely affects most manufacturing processes, causing major production issues. These include problems such as sticking, jamming, feeding, exfoliation and separation. Heat generation due to static electricity can cause fires and product quality is decreased through dust adherence, contamination and other types of damage. It is also extremely unpleasant for machine operators and maintenance teams when static electricity is discharged.

Fortunately, help is now available from Thorite, in the shape of SMC”s solutions for the measurement, removal and control of static electricity using a range of Ioniser types, each ideal for specific applications:

Bar-type ionisers are suitable for electrostatic removal from flat surfaces, and by using compressed air this can be achieved over an increased distance from the workpiece. These units remove static electricity on glass, circuit boards, PET bottles, film roll, moulded components, packing films and film moulded goods. They also alleviate uneven painting problems caused by static build up.

Fan-type ionisers are designed to banish static electricity in the atmosphere around workpieces. As the fans require no air supply they are suitable for use in a wide range of applications and locations, including preventing dust sticking to roll film and eliminating static on resin moulded goods.

Nozzle-type ionisers are designed for partial electrostatic removal of a small workpiece or total removal in a small space, as well as removing dust with high flow rate types. Typical applications include static elimination from IC chips, lenses, parts feeders, plastic cups, electrical substrate, packing films, automotive lamp covers and moulded goods.

However, there is no need for customers to worry about possessing in-depth ioniser design knowledge when dealing with Thorite. Their expert engineers are available to carry out FREE Static Tests at customers” own premises and advise on the most suitable ioniser type to solve any static problems involved with specific manufacturing processes.