The process is disrupted
Problem
Build-up of static charges on non conductive objects can create enormous adhesion forces. These forces cause materials to stick together or repel each other at locations in a production process creating disruptions.
Examples of sticking together:
- A plastic film sticks to the idle roller causing disruption in the web tension and web guidance.
- Small punched parts stick together
- Sheets on a stack stick causing feeding of multiple sheets
- Plastic film wound on a roll sticks to the roll when trying to unwind
- Bags do not open because the layers are stuck together
Examples of repelling
- Yarns for textile travel alongside at very small spacing. Repelling causes irregular spacing
- Small injection moulded parts jump out of the box
- Sheets float on a stack
- Film on a roll during winding is telescoping
Solution
Placing anti-static devices at strategic positions in the process will help to reduce the static charge and eliminate the problem. Depending on the process various anti-static devices are available for flat surfaces, objects, low speed, high speed and with additional air support.