ESD – definition
The abbreviation ESD stands for "electrostatic discharge" and describes the charge exchange between two objects with different voltage potentials. An imbalance of the electrical charge is usually created by friction - both objects then have a different charge potential. The triboelectric charges play a special role: During discharge, e.g. when two objects with different charge potentials come closer to each other, sudden charge equalisation occurs: this is ESD - better known as electrostatic discharge.
When handling and working with sensitive components, protective measures should be applied to counter electrical charging of people and infrastructure at workstations.
ESD – risks
People and their behaviour represent the greatest risk in relation to ESD. For example, when employees handle electronic components without protective clothing and appropriate training. Because clothes, skin and hair are susceptible to high charges. An electronic discharge can often be found here because these carriers easily absorb charges. Feeling an electrical discharge when you touch a doorknob is a well-known ESD sensation. Often, however, the human perception threshold is much higher (only from a voltage of 3000 volts), with many discharges not even noticed - but this can be harmful to electronic components or can even destroy them completely (from 35 volts).
ESD-protected workplaces from ERGO-line discharge the existing charges to earth in a controlled manner.
ESD – economic consequences
Especially in the areas of electronics production, industrial electronics, computer technology, telecommunications technology, automotive electronics and many other production areas, ESD is one of the biggest problems. Quality problems that only appear days, weeks or months after the product has been delivered to the customer are particularly insidious.
This can lead to complaints, repair and replacement costs, loss of image, and loss of orders and customers.
ESD – Schutznormen
There are various international protection standards for ESD - the most important of which is DIN EN 61340-5-1. This standard regulates, defines and specifies the ESD measures.
All ERGO-line ESD products are certified according to this standard..
ESD - protective measures at the workstation
The ideal ESD workstation is in an ESD protection zone, i.e. all materials in this zone are conductive. This can be merely a workspace, a zone, a room or an entire building. A protection zone includes conductive floors. This can be achieved with appropriate ESD floor mats. ESD furniture such as tables, work surfaces, chairs and shelves must also be used. ESD lighting is often neglected. With ESD lamps, the housing and pelmets are made of conductive material or are coated accordingly.
We are happy to advise you in this regard!
ERGO-line offers you specialist advice for your ESD project!
Plan your ESD protection zone with us!
All ERGO-line ESD products are subject to an outgoing inspection: Each ESD workstation is checked by us for conductivity before delivery and approved for delivery.
News overview
