Electronic products normally consist of conductors and insulators. Within the ESD-protected workstation, insulators can be found on products such as PCBs, onthe tools being used, tapes for masking, and even plastic cups or bins. A static charge on an insulator cannot be drained by grounding alone, as you could with a conductive material, which is why ionisation is required.
Greg Barron.
To effectively remove charges from insulators, the surrounding air needs to be more conductive and static charges need to be neutralised. Air ionisation is one of the most effective ways of increasing conductivity to prevent electrostatic charge generation and consequent ESD events from occurring.
How do ionisers work?
Ionisers create large numbers of positively and negatively charged ions that are distributed through the air using fans. If there is a static charge present on any of the work-surface items, it will be reduced and neutralised by attracting opposite polarity charges from the air. This process of charge neutralisation happens within seconds.
Ionisers improve workstation and product safety by:
• Eliminating charges on process-essential insulators.
• Neutralising workstation air where ESD-sensitive objects are being handled.
• Neutralising charges on non-essential insulators.
• Removing charged particulates and
minimising triboelectric charging.
*Information credit: Desco Europe: How does Ionisation fit into an ESD Control Programme? | 18 February 2019
Through our static control division, Altico, Actum Group specialises in ESD control within the working environment.
Contact us on +27 11 608 3001 or [email protected] to enquire aboutour cleaning solutions.
From the Editor's desk: Growth through inclusivity Technews Publishing
News
As the engineering fields in South Africa continue to make progress toward gender equality, we are finally starting to see the presence and contribution of women in engineering and industrial roles.
Read more...KITE 2025 proves its value
News
The KwaZulu-Natal Industrial Technology Exhibition (KITE) 2025 confirmed its place as KwaZulu-Natal’s must-attend industrial event, drawing thousands of industry professionals.
Read more...DMASS experiences continued slowdown
News
The European electronic components distribution market continued its downward trajectory in the second quarter of 2025, according to new figures released by DMASS.
Read more...World-first zero second grid-to-backup power switch
News
JSE-listed cable manufacturer, South Ocean Electric Wire, has completed a solar installation it says marks a global first: a seamless switch from grid to backup power in zero seconds.
Read more...
News
OMC deploys cobots to improve throughput 10x, while maintaining quality and ensuring consistency of fibre optic production.
Read more...Cobots for opto production line
News
OMC deploys cobots to improve throughput 10x, while maintaining quality and ensuring consistency of fibre optic production.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.