Circuit & System Protection


Ionised air blower

31 August 2011 Circuit & System Protection

SIMCO’s Aerostat XC is designed for use with sensitive electronic components where electrostatic discharge (ESD) is a problem.

It can be applied in inspection, testing and assembly environments, and can also be used where static electricity causes problems such as attraction of dirt to product, misalignment of small parts due to electrostatic ‘jumping,’ and undesirable adhesion of plastic films due to electrostatic charge.

The ionised air blower produces an airflow that is rich in positive and negative ions. Directing the air flow onto an object that has a static charge will neutralise the charge. If the object has a positive static charge, it will draw negative ions from the airflow. If the object has a negative static charge, it will draw positive ions from the airflow. The ions are attracted to the oppositely charged object and neutralise the electrostatic charge on the object.

The Aerostat XC uses a three-speed tangential blower to produce a uniform airflow which is directed into a duct. The duct also contains a heater and ioniser. The low-wattage heater can be turned on at any time for user comfort. The ioniser uses a transformer which produces high-voltage AC, and is current limited for safety. The transformer output also contains a current limiting resistor which provides redundant safety and enhances the ionisation stability.

The AC is applied to a row of stainless steel ion emitters, which results in an intense alternating electric field at the tip of the emitters. It is this electric field that introduces alternating polarity ions into the air flow. The shaped airflow exiting the Aerostat XC carries these ions over a broad area for control of electrostatic charge. To ensure that the unit is working properly, the output is monitored by an ionisation indicator lamp.

The ioniser of the Aerostat XC features a balancing circuit to ensure equal production of positive and negative ions. The unit also features a built-in emitter cleaner. Taking a few seconds to clean the emitters on a weekly basis prevents the build-up of airborne debris, ensuring optimal functioning for the life of the unit.



Credit(s)



Share this article:
Share via emailShare via LinkedInPrint this page

Further reading:

Varistors for automotive applications
Future Electronics Circuit & System Protection
TDK Corporation has announced the addition of two new varistors to its AVRH series for automotive applications where both are characterised by the high electrostatic discharge-withstanding voltage demanded to ensure the safe operation of safety-critical automotive functions.

Read more...
Clearing the Static: The importance of ESD wrist straps
Actum Electronics Circuit & System Protection
ESD clothing plays a pivotal role in preventing that people do not charge the products that they are working with.

Read more...
Clearing the Static: ESD clothing and footwear
Actum Electronics Circuit & System Protection
ESD clothing plays a pivotal role in preventing that people do not charge the products that they are working with.

Read more...
Single-phase EMC filters
RS South Africa Circuit & System Protection
TDK Corporation has expanded its portfolio of single-phase EMC filters for AC and DC applications up to 250 V and rated currents from 6 to 30 A.

Read more...
Clearing the Static: The significance of cleaning in ESD control
Actum Group Circuit & System Protection
It is essential that ESD-protected workplace areas and equipment (tables, floors, work mats, trays, tools, machine elements) are cleaned with specialised antistatic cleaners.

Read more...
Clearing the Static: ESD protective packaging
Actum Group Circuit & System Protection
The primary objective of ESD protective packaging is to prevent ESD incidents within the packaging and facilitate the dissipation of charges from the outer surface.

Read more...
New NeoMesh protocol stack version
CST Electronics Circuit & System Protection
NeoCortec has released an updated NeoMesh protocol stack version 1.6 firmware for its NC2400 and NC1000 module series, which now supports the new Sensirion SHT4xA temperature and humidity sensor series.

Read more...
Robust case for sensitive electronics
Actum Electronics Enclosures, Racks, Cabinets & Panel Products
nVent Electric plc announced a new addition to its SCHROFF portfolio of products: a robust case family designed especially for protecting sensitive electronics in harsh environmental conditions.

Read more...
NewFeed feeder protection relay
NewElec Pretoria Circuit & System Protection
The NewFeed Feeder Protection Relay has been designed to protect the connection between solar farms and conventional power grids in both low voltage (LV) and medium voltage (MV) distribution settings.

Read more...
Clearing the Static: Fundamental principles of static control
Actum Group Circuit & System Protection
The use of grounding products and testing equipment becomes essential to verify the proper functionality of static control systems in the work environment.

Read more...