FAQ

What does ESD stands for?

ESD stands for Electrostatic Discharge. It refers to the sudden flow of electric charge between two objects with different electrostatic potentials. This discharge can occur when there is a buildup of static electricity on an object or a person, and it comes into contact with another object or a person with a different electrostatic charge. ESD can potentially damage electronic components, such as integrated circuits, and can cause malfunctions or even permanent failure if proper precautions are not taken. Therefore, ESD protection measures are employed in various industries, particularly in electronics manufacturing and handling sensitive electronic devices.

ESD standards and guidelines!

ESD (Electrostatic Discharge) standards are guidelines and requirements set by various organizations and industry bodies to ensure proper control and prevention of electrostatic discharge-related issues in manufacturing, handling, and use of electronic devices. These standards aim to minimize the risk of ESD damage to sensitive components, improve product reliability, and maintain overall quality. Here are some key ESD standards:

ANSI/ESD S20.20: This is a widely recognized standard developed by the Electrostatic Discharge Association (ESDA) that provides guidelines for establishing an Electrostatic Discharge Control Program (ESD Control Program). It covers various aspects of ESD control, including training, grounding, personnel grounding, and ESD-safe workstations.

IEC 61340: This International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standard provides a comprehensive framework for the control of electrostatic phenomena in a variety of industries. It defines requirements for ESD control programs, ESD-safe workspaces, and test methods for evaluating ESD protection devices and materials.

JESD625: This standard, developed by the Joint Electron Device Engineering Council (JEDEC), focuses on the handling, packaging, and transportation of electronic components susceptible to ESD. It specifies packaging requirements, material properties, and test methods for ESD protection in component manufacturing and handling.

IPC-610: The IPC-610 standard, developed by the Association Connecting Electronics Industries (IPC), provides guidelines for acceptable electronic assembly and inspection. It includes requirements for ESD control during assembly processes, component handling, and inspection procedures.

MIL-STD-1686: This standard, issued by the U.S. Department of Defense, establishes requirements for controlling ESD in military electronic systems. It covers ESD control methods, training, and qualification of ESD control programs.

Adherence to these ESD standards helps organizations establish effective ESD control practices, including personnel grounding, proper grounding of workstations and equipment, use of ESD-safe materials, and regular testing and auditing of ESD control systems. Compliance with these standards ensures a controlled ESD environment, reducing the risk of ESD-related failures and ensuring the reliability and quality of electronic products.

What is Conductive and dissipating?

conductive materials facilitate the flow of electric current, while dissipating involves spreading out or reducing the concentration of energy, particularly electrical charge. Both concepts are important in various aspects of electronics design and operation.

What is ESD safe means?

ESD safe refers to a condition or state where an object, material, or system is designed or prepared to minimize or eliminate the risk of damage caused by electrostatic discharge (ESD). ESD safe measures are implemented to protect sensitive electronic components, devices, or systems from the potentially harmful effects of electrostatic discharge.

ESD safe practices involve using materials and equipment that have been specifically designed to prevent or mitigate electrostatic discharge. This includes using ESD safe workstations, flooring, grounding systems, tools, and clothing. ESD safe materials have properties that allow them to dissipate or redirect static electricity safely, reducing the chances of damage to electronic components.

By implementing ESD safe measures, such as proper grounding, use of antistatic materials, and adherence to ESD safe handling procedures, the risk of ESD-related damage is significantly reduced. This is particularly important in industries like electronics manufacturing, assembly, repair, and handling of sensitive electronic devices, where ESD can cause malfunctions, failures, or permanent damage.

What are ESD safe material?

ESD safe materials, also known as antistatic or static dissipative materials, are designed to minimize or prevent the buildup and discharge of static electricity, reducing the risk of damage to sensitive electronic components. These materials have specific electrical properties that allow them to safely dissipate or neutralize static charges.

Here are some examples of ESD safe materials:

ESD Safe Worksurfaces: Workbenches, mats, or tabletops made of ESD safe materials, such as conductive or dissipative materials, are used to provide a controlled surface for working with sensitive electronics. These materials help prevent static electricity buildup and discharge.

ESD Safe Flooring: ESD safe flooring materials, such as conductive or static dissipative tiles or carpets, are used to provide a controlled environment that reduces static charges and prevents electrostatic discharge when people walk on the floor.

ESD Safe Packaging: Packaging materials, such as conductive or antistatic bags, foam, or trays, are used to store or transport sensitive electronic components or devices. These materials prevent static electricity buildup and protect the contents from potential ESD damage.

ESD Safe Clothing: ESD safe clothing, including smocks, gloves, and shoes, is worn by personnel working in ESD sensitive environments. These garments are made of special fabrics that minimize the generation and accumulation of static charges, reducing the risk of ESD events.

ESD Safe Tools and Equipment: Tools and equipment used in ESD sensitive areas, such as screwdrivers, tweezers, and soldering irons, may be made of materials that are specifically designed to dissipate static charges and prevent ESD damage to delicate components.

These are just a few examples of ESD safe materials used in various applications. The specific material choice depends on the requirements of the environment and the level of ESD protection needed.

ESD safe table mat

An ESD safe table mat, also known as an antistatic table mat, is a specially designed mat used to create a static-safe work surface for handling sensitive electronic components or devices. These mats help prevent the buildup and discharge of static electricity, reducing the risk of ESD damage.

ESD safe table mats typically have the following features:

Conductive or Static Dissipative Material: ESD safe table mats are made from materials that have conductive or static dissipative properties. These materials help to quickly dissipate any static charges generated by objects placed on the mat.

Grounding Connection: The mat is typically equipped with a grounding connection, usually a snap or a terminal, that allows the mat to be connected to an appropriate grounding point. This helps to further prevent the accumulation of static charges on the mat's surface.

Durability and Resilience: ESD safe table mats are designed to withstand regular use and provide a durable work surface. They are often resistant to common chemicals and heat, ensuring their longevity and effectiveness.

Size and Coverage: ESD safe table mats come in various sizes to fit different workspaces and can cover a significant portion of the table or workbench, providing ample space for working with electronic components.

By using an ESD safe table mat, static charges generated by objects placed on the mat are safely dissipated to the grounded connection, minimizing the risk of ESD damage to sensitive components or devices. It is important to ensure proper grounding and regular inspection of the mat's condition to maintain its ESD safe properties.

How to choose an ESD Mat?

When choosing an ESD mat, there are several factors to consider to ensure it meets your specific requirements for electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection. Here are some key factors to consider:

ESD Standards: Check if the mat complies with relevant ESD standards such as ANSI/ESD S20.20, IEC 61340, or other industry-specific standards. This ensures that the mat meets recognized criteria for ESD control.

• ESD Resistance: Look for mats with low surface resistance to effectively dissipate static charges. Ideally, the surface resistance should be in the range of 1 x 10^6 to 1 x 10^9 ohms.
• Mat Material: ESD mats are commonly available in materials like rubber, vinyl, or a combination of both. Consider factors such as durability, chemical resistance, and compatibility with your work environment when choosing the mat material.
• Mat Size, Color and Thickness: Determine the appropriate size, Color and thickness of the mat based on the workspace requirements. Ensure that the mat covers the necessary area and provides adequate cushioning and protection.
• Grounding: Check if the mat has integrated grounding capabilities or requires additional grounding hardware. A grounding cord with a 1 Megohm resistor is typically used to connect the mat to an ESD grounding point.
• Surface Characteristics: Consider the type of surface texture required for your specific application. Some mats have a smooth surface, while others have a textured or anti-slip surface for improved grip.
• Maintenance and Cleaning: Assess the ease of maintenance and cleaning. Look for mats that are easy to clean, resistant to chemicals, and can withstand regular wear and tear.
• Accessories: Determine if you need any additional accessories such as wrist straps, grounding cords, or ESD-safe tools that are compatible with the mat.
• Manufacturer Reputation: Choose mats from reputable manufacturers with a track record of providing quality ESD control products and good customer support.

How to clean an ESD mat?

Cleaning an ESD mat is an essential part of maintaining its effectiveness and ensuring its continued ability to dissipate static charges. Here are general steps to clean an ESD mat:

• Power Off and Remove ESD-Sensitive Items: Before cleaning the mat, make sure to power off any nearby equipment and remove any ESD-sensitive items from the mat's surface.
• Prepare a Cleaning Solution: Mix a mild, non-abrasive detergent or an ESD-safe mat cleaner with water in a basin or sink (avoid alcohol, bleach and harsh chemicals). 
• Dampen a Soft Cloth or Sponge: Moisten a soft cloth or sponge with the cleaning solution. Ensure it is not soaking wet, but damp enough to clean the mat effectively.
• Gently Wipe the Mat: Start at one corner of the mat and gently wipe the surface using the damp cloth or sponge. Use smooth, overlapping strokes to cover the entire area of the mat. Pay attention to any visible dirt, stains, or spills, and give them a little extra attention.
• Avoid Excessive Moisture: While cleaning, be cautious not to saturate the mat with excessive moisture. Avoid getting water or cleaning solution into any seams or edges of the mat.
• Rinse with Clean Water: Once you have wiped the mat with the cleaning solution, rinse the cloth or sponge with clean water and gently wipe the mat again to remove any residual detergent.
• Dry the Mat: After cleaning, allow the mat to air dry completely. Avoid using heat sources or direct sunlight, as they can potentially damage the mat. Ensure the mat is completely dry before placing ESD-sensitive items back on its surface.

Periodic Maintenance: Regularly inspect the mat for any signs of wear, damage, or deterioration. If needed, 

It's important to note that specific cleaning instructions may vary depending on the type of ESD mat and the manufacturer's recommendations. Always refer to the manufacturer's guidelines and instructions for the best practices in cleaning and maintaining your particular ESD mat.

What type of table mat is good to prevent electrical discharge?

To effectively prevent electrical discharge and protect sensitive electronic components, a table mat with static dissipative or conductive properties is typically recommended. These types of mats help to safely dissipate or neutralize static charges, minimizing the risk of electrical discharge and ESD damage.

Static Dissipative Table Mats: These mats have a higher electrical resistance compared to conductive mats, allowing for controlled dissipation of static charges. They provide a slower and more controlled release of static electricity, reducing the likelihood of damaging ESD events.

Conductive Table Mats: These mats have a lower electrical resistance, allowing for more rapid and direct discharge of static electricity. They provide a highly conductive path for static charges to flow safely to ground, minimizing the chances of electrostatic discharge.

When choosing a table mat, it's important to consider the specific requirements of your working environment and the sensitivity of the electronic components being handled. 

Anti Static Rubber Mat 

An anti-static rubber mat, also known as an ESD rubber mat or static dissipative rubber mat, is a type of mat designed to prevent or minimize the buildup and discharge of static electricity. These mats provide a safe working surface for handling electronic components, protecting them from potential ESD damage.

Anti-static rubber mats typically have the following features:

• Static Dissipative Properties: These mats are made from rubber materials with static dissipative properties. They have a moderate electrical resistance that allows for controlled dissipation of static charges, reducing the risk of electrical discharge.
• Cushioning and Durability: Anti-static rubber mats are designed to provide a cushioned and resilient work surface. They are often resistant to common chemicals and abrasions, ensuring their longevity and usability in various working environments.
• Grounding Connection: The mat is usually equipped with a grounding connection, such as a snap or terminal, which allows it to be properly grounded. This connection helps to further dissipate any static charges that may accumulate on the mat's surface.
• Size, color and Coverage: Anti-static rubber mats are available in different sizes and color to accommodate various workspaces. They can cover a significant portion of the workbench or table, providing ample space for working with electronic components.

Using an anti-static rubber mat helps to create a controlled static-safe work surface, reducing the risk of ESD damage to sensitive electronic components. It is essential to properly ground the mat and regularly inspect its condition to ensure its effectiveness in preventing electrical discharge.

ESD shielding bags 

ESD shielding bags are protective packaging materials used in electronics manufacturing to prevent electrostatic damage. They dissipate static charges, create a Faraday cage to shield against external static fields, and provide moisture and dust protection. Available in various sizes and formats, these transparent bags allow visual inspection without opening. Proper handling, such as grounding and sealing, ensures their effectiveness. ESD shielding bags are an important component of an overall ESD control program, 

Moisture sensitive ESD bags 

Moisture-sensitive ESD bags are specialized packaging materials that offer combined protection against electrostatic discharge and moisture damage for sensitive electronic components. They feature static dissipative properties for ESD protection and a moisture barrier layer to prevent moisture ingress. These bags are commonly used in industries like semiconductor manufacturing and IC packaging. Some bags include humidity indicators to assess moisture levels, and desiccant packets can be added for enhanced moisture control. Proper sealing, handling, and storage are crucial to maintaining their effectiveness in safeguarding moisture-sensitive devices.

Polyimide tapes 

Polyimide tape, also known as Kapton® tape, is a heat-resistant adhesive tape made from a polyimide film. It is widely used in electronics, automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing industries. The tape's key properties include exceptional heat resistance, making it suitable for high-temperature applications like soldering and masking during processes such as wave soldering and reflow soldering. It is an excellent electrical insulator, providing insulation and protection for electronic components, wires, and circuit boards. Polyimide tape exhibits high dielectric strength, offering insulation against electrical fields and voltage barriers. It is resistant to chemicals, solvents, and oils, making it ideal for harsh environments. The tape is flexible and thin, allowing it to conform to irregular surfaces. It is commonly used for masking, protection, and surface treatment processes. With its clean, residue-free removal, it ensures the integrity of underlying surfaces. Polyimide tape has become indispensable in many industries due to its heat resistance, electrical insulation, chemical resistance, and versatility.

ESD safe polyimide tapes 

ESD-safe polyimide tapes are specialized adhesive tapes designed to provide electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection. They have a low surface resistance, dissipating static charges and preventing ESD damage to sensitive electronic components. These tapes maintain the heat resistance and electrical insulation properties of standard polyimide tapes, making them suitable for high-temperature applications. They are commonly used in electronics manufacturing, assembly, and repair to protect static-sensitive components and circuit boards. ESD-safe polyimide tapes offer clean removal without leaving residue, ensuring the integrity of surfaces and preventing contamination. Their ESD-safe features make them an essential tool for ESD control in industries where electrostatic discharge poses a risk.

ESD SAFE KNITTED GLOVES

ESD-safe knitted gloves are specialized gloves designed to provide protection against electrostatic discharge (ESD) while handling sensitive electronic components and devices. These gloves are made from materials that have low or controlled surface resistance, allowing them to safely dissipate static charges and prevent ESD damage. Here are some key features and benefits of ESD-safe knitted gloves:

• ESD Protection: The primary function of ESD-safe knitted gloves is to prevent electrostatic charges from building up on the hands and fingers of the wearer. They provide a controlled path for static electricity to safely discharge, minimizing the risk of ESD damage to sensitive electronics.
• Low Linting: ESD-safe gloves are designed to have low linting properties, reducing the risk of contamination or debris that could interfere with sensitive electronic components during handling.
• Comfort and Dexterity: Knitted gloves offer a comfortable and flexible fit, allowing for natural hand movement and dexterity. This is important for tasks that require precise handling and manipulation of small components.
• ESD Symbol or Marking: ESD-safe knitted gloves often feature an ESD symbol or marking, indicating their compliance with ESD standards and making it easier for users to identify and select the appropriate gloves for ESD-sensitive applications.
• Washable and Reusable: Many ESD-safe knitted gloves are washable and reusable, allowing for multiple uses and extended durability. Regular cleaning and maintenance help to maintain their ESD-safe properties and effectiveness over time.
• The main types are: non-coated, finger tip coated or palm coated

ESD-safe knitted gloves are commonly used in industries such as electronics manufacturing, assembly, testing, and repair. They play a crucial role in ESD control programs by providing an additional layer of protection for personnel handling sensitive electronic components. It is important to follow proper ESD practices, including proper grounding and maintenance of gloves, to ensure their effectiveness in minimizing the risk of ESD damage.

HOW TO WASH ESD SAFE KNITTED GLOVES

When it comes to washing ESD-safe knitted gloves, it's important to follow proper guidelines to maintain their ESD-safe properties and overall effectiveness. Here are some general steps to wash ESD-safe knitted gloves:

• Prepare a Gentle Cleaning Solution: Fill a basin or sink with lukewarm water and add a mild detergent specifically formulated for delicate fabrics. Avoid using harsh chemicals, bleach, or fabric softeners, as they can potentially compromise the ESD-safe properties of the gloves.
• Soak the Gloves: Place the gloves in the cleaning solution and gently agitate them to ensure thorough soaking. Let them soak for a few minutes to allow the detergent to loosen any dirt or contaminants.
• Gently Clean the Gloves: Using your fingers or a soft brush, lightly scrub the gloves to remove any dirt or stains. Pay attention to any areas that may be more soiled, such as fingertips or palm areas.
• Rinse Thoroughly: After cleaning, rinse the gloves under lukewarm running water to remove any soap residue. Ensure that all the detergent is rinsed out completely.
• Squeeze Out Excess Water: Gently squeeze the gloves to remove excess water. Avoid twisting or wringing them, as it can potentially damage the fabric.
• Air Dry: Lay the gloves flat on a clean towel or hang them in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Allow them to air dry completely before using or storing.