Electrostatics and industry

During the processing and finishing of materials which are insulating in one form or another (e.g. paper, textiles, glass, wood, chemicals, plastics), electrostatic charges are inevitable. Charges develop when materials are processed and rub against one another, or when objects formerly in contact are suddenly separated, or when materials are joined, bonded, glued or welded. The problem lies not only with the materials, but with the energy used to move these materials, whether they are solids, liquid, gases or powders. The higher the speed is, the more trouble the electrostatic charge can cause.

Handling

The difference is control of the electrostatics. Static electricity is a part of many manufacturing and finishing processes. It is an undesirable “villain” when it develops spontaneously, negatively impacting workflow, productivity and quality. It can also be deliberately generated and controlled to improve quality and increase productivity.

Unwanted, destructive effects

In production processes characterized by high performance and cost pressure, increasingly larger material quantities need to be moved at ever increasing speeds, with the inevitable result that electrostatic charges and hazards also increase. Materials attracted by electrostatic charges are one example of this. In all these cases, electrostatic charges must be controlled and removed because it causes damage.

Useful effects of electrostatics

Electrostaticscan also be useful when it is purposely, innovatively and creatively used to improve a production process. The requirement is familiarity with the principles of electrostaticsWhen spray painting cars, for example, the atomized paint can be given a charge of one polarity and the body given an opposite charge. Thus, the fine paint mist is uniformly attracted to every part of the body and little remains in the air. This uses less material and perfect paint coverage is achieved. In the printing industry and in the production of films and foils, some areas can no longer survive without electrostatic systems. These are just a few examples.

The innovative and creative use of electrostatic systems open new pathways to higher quality, efficiency, productivity and profitability.

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