Measuring / Sensing Static Electricity
Measuring / Sensing Static Electricity
(OP)
I work in a facility which is have a significant problem with our employees receiving static shocks from some of our equipment. I am in the process of trying to figure out what is generating the static charge and how do disipate it. I know they have static electric meters to help isolate the problem areas, but they are quite expensive. Does anyone know of an inexpensive way to measure or sense static electricity? Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks.
Thanks.





RE: Measuring / Sensing Static Electricity
> expensive? that's in the eye of the beholder:
http://www.esdproduct.com/esd_monitors.html
http://www.trifield.com/static_ESD_meter.htm
http://www.lessemf.com/electric.html#188
Things that can you do:
> ionizers to dissipate charge buildup
> antistatic treatment of carpets
> removal of carpets
> increase humidity (some)
TTFN
RE: Measuring / Sensing Static Electricity
You may also employ wrist straps on employees and tie this to a suitable ground at their station. This way the only static build-up will occur as they walk from one station to another (generally when it happens anyway). I would require them to hook their straps at the new station right away.
Is this just an issue related to the uncomfortable zaps or is this related to IC or other electrical parts failures?
RE: Measuring / Sensing Static Electricity
if you want to prove that the zaps are "static", touch the unit again a few seconds after the first zap. The static will be gone but earth leakage will remain
Seriously, if you are worried about earth leakage then just hook an ammeter up between the equipment and a convenient earth terminal. Here in the UK there is a Portable Appliance Testing requirement. This means that equipment (especially at work) needs to be routinely checked for electrical safety, which would include earth leakage testing. The "routine" interval is not explicitly defined but guidelines are given. Equipment which is heavily used is checked more often and the user is also part of the inspection process in terms of loose leads etc.
RE: Measuring / Sensing Static Electricity
Wrist straps are very effective for seated employees, and for those that wander around, ankle straps that go around and beneath footwear can also help.
As IR says, check that the humidity is not on the low side.
RE: Measuring / Sensing Static Electricity
One other point is check the chairs your employees are sitting in. I have found this, generally, to be a great static generator with peoples little (or big for that matter) hind ends moving around in them. A little static guard will help with this.
RE: Measuring / Sensing Static Electricity
Wheels within wheels / In a spiral array
A pattern so grand / And complex
Time after time / We lose sight of the way
Our causes can't see / Their effects.
RE: Measuring / Sensing Static Electricity
RE: Measuring / Sensing Static Electricity