ESD: Electrostatic discharge

Electrostatic discharge(ESD) can be a problem in many industries. This is an abrupt change in voltage between two objects or materials with different electrical charges, which can lead to a discharge. ESD can cause serious damage to electronic components and should therefore be taken seriously.

Electronic devices are omnipresent in our modern world. From smartphones to laptops to medical products, these devices have become an integral part of our lives. Although we rely on these devices, there is one problem that we should all be aware of: electrostatic discharge (ESD). In this blog post, we will be looking at the topic of ESD.

What is ESD?

Electrostatic discharge (ESD) occurs when electrostatic charges build up and eventually discharge. It is a brief but intense discharge of electricity that can cause damage to electronic components, devices and systems. ESD can be triggered by a variety of sources, such as friction between materials, static electricity from the environment or contact with people.

What are the causes of ESD?

As already mentioned, ESD can be triggered by a variety of sources. One of the most common causes is friction between two materials that have different electrostatic charges. When these materials are then separated, electrons can jump from one material to the other, resulting in a discharge. ESD can also be affected by ambient temperature and humidity, with dry environments tending to build up and store static electricity.

Effects of ESD

The effects of ESD can be serious. In electronic devices, ESD discharges can lead to malfunctions and permanent damage. In electronic systems, ESD discharges can lead to data loss, system failures and even failure of the entire system. In the manufacture of electronic devices, ESD discharges can lead to rejects and higher production costs.

Methods for avoiding ESD

Fortunately, there are ways to avoid ESD. Here are some methods that can help:

Earthing: One of the simplest methods of preventing ESD is earthing. This can be achieved by using conductive floor coverings, table coverings, work chairs, earthing straps or shoe soles.

Avoiding friction: ESD can be reduced by avoiding friction between materials. This can be achieved by using antistatic materials or by using humidity.

Protective clothing: ESD clothing stands for electrostatically dissipative clothing and is used in areas where electrostatic charging can pose a risk, such as in the electronics, semiconductor and microelectronics industries, as well as in laboratories and cleanrooms.

ESD clothing typically includes:

• ESD safety shoes: These shoes have a dissipative sole and are designed to dissipate electrostatic charges.
• ESD gloves: These gloves have a conductive coating to prevent electrostatic charging.
• ESD outerwear: This includes, for example, ESD lab coats, smocks or overalls that contain a dissipative coating or fibers to prevent electrostatic charging.
• ESD headgear: ESD caps or hairnets are made of dissipative materials and protect the hair from electrostatic charges.

ESD-safe packaging: Electronic devices should be delivered in ESD-safe packaging to protect them from discharges during transportation.

Employee training: It is important to inform employees about the dangers of ESD and train them on how to avoid ESD. This includes training on the correct handling of electronic devices and the use of protective clothing.

However, the best safety guidelines are useless if they are not checked regularly. Protective measures for personal grounding, such as footwear or wrist grounding straps, must be checked daily before entering the EPA (Electrostatic Protected Area). Visitors, supervisors and cleaning staff must also be equipped with suitable protective equipment to avoid hazards to semiconductor components and to ensure ESD protection. Access barriers at the entrances to EPAs are therefore a must. They measure the leakage resistance and only allow access once the test has been passed.

Conclusion

ESD is an important issue that should be considered in the manufacture and use of electronic devices. The effects of ESD can be severe, ranging from data loss and system failure to permanent damage to electronic components. By using appropriate methods such as grounding, avoiding friction, protective clothing and training employees, ESD can be avoided, ensuring the safety and performance of electronic equipment.