Keeping Our Aviation System Safe – Understanding Electrostatic Discharge

SofemaOnline (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com takes a deeper look.

The Challenge We Face

For sensitive electronic components, for example, microprocessors, A static event as small as 5 volts, can have a fatal outcome for the device.

What is the cause of the “Static Electric Spark”

Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) is produced when two objects rub against each other which allows the transfer of electrons.

· The object that receives the electrons develops a negative charge

· The object that gives the electrons becomes positively charged.

When subsequently the “negatively” charged object comes in contact with a conductor (or even another positively charged body). There is a rapid transfer of the extra electrons.

· It is this action which creates the static spark we sometimes see or feel

Note the Static Discharge is likely to be considerably greater in a “Dry Atmosphere” and significantly reduced in an atmosphere of” High Humidity”

Static Reduction Methods

The challenge is that we are predisposed to the production of “static” through clothing rubbing against our skin or even from the friction which occurs when walking on carpet.

Wearing ESD-approved footwear, for example, can help – but the safe method is to utilize an ESD Workstation, in this way we can virtually guarantee to eliminate all static thus safeguarding the equipment & components from ESD damage.

What do we need for an Electrostatic Discharge Sensitive Workstation (ESDS Workstation)

The purpose of an ESD workstation is to connect both yourself and the equipment you are working on (through a safety resistor) to the ground in this way precluding the possibility of a build-up of electrons.

The key elements of an ESD Workstation include the following:

· A work surface mat which (with grounding lead) – Made of a dissipative material, allowing it to direct the flow of ESD from you to the ground through the grounding lead

Provides a surface that does not collect static serves to dissipate the charge from any electrostatic discharge sensitive (ESDS) devices placed on the mat!

· A work surface Earth bonding point (with safety resistor)

· An ESD wrist strap

· ESD floor matting (with grounding lead) – typically made of the same material as the work surface mat

The Use of ESD Wristbands

The ESD wristband should be worn against your skin, essentially it is an antistatic device that is used to safely ground a person and at the same time to prevent the build up of any static electricity on their body.

Next Steps

Sofema Aviation Services (SAS) www.sassofia.com, Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com offers classroom, webinar & online training related to Electrostatic Sensitive Discharge (ESDS) please visit the websites or email team@sassofia.com