Electrostatic discharge is a major concern when working with sensitive electronic components. ESD can damage electronic parts if measures aren’t taken to prevent this common phenomenon. Preventative measures involve a broad range of electrostatic discharge ESD control products for safety and prevention.
What is ESD or electrostatic discharge?
Electrostatic discharge is when two electrically charged objects come in contact with each other and release a rapid and spontaneous surge of static electricity. Each object has a different charge and a different number of electrons. The exchange of electrons results in a significant electromagnetic field buildup which is responsible for the rapid discharge of the static electricity.
While there are several reasons for ESD to occur, the two main reasons are static electricity and electrostatic induction. Static electricity is produced when tribocharging. Tribocharging is when an object’s surface acquires negative electrons. As the other object loses them, it becomes positively charged. When these objects come in contact with each other with opposite charges, the electrons transfer energy and then separate. This causes a type of contact electrification of electrical charges. Electrostatic induction usually results from the electrical charges of an object being rearranged.
What is ESD in safety?
Electrostatic discharge can be a dangerous and costly threat to certain industries such as semiconductors, medical devices, pharmaceutical, biotech, automotive, and electronics. ESD can cause data failure, fires, explosions, and damage electronic devices.
To prevent destruction of a system or product due to ESD, you should install components that minimize or completely eliminate the risk of electrostatic discharge. ESD in safety refers to the measures taken to keep the electrostatic discharge risk to a minimum.
What are the dangers of ESD?
ESD causes two types of damage to electrical equipment. These are known as catastrophic and latent or upset failure. Catastrophic damage creates permanent damage while upset failure damages components but the equipment may still perform to some extent.
What are the basic ESD precautions?
There are two procedures that will minimize or eliminate electrical current. One is to remove material with high ESD buildup. Grounding is the other procedure that is essential for blocking ESD.
ESD control products and systems
The following are ESD control products that will protect electronic components:
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