Press Release

Frequently asked Questions - Static Control

Static Control

What is the difference between shockless and hot static control products?

Shockless static eliminators are designed with ionizing points, or emitters, that are capacitively or resistively coupled to the high voltage source. This limits the current at the points to a very low level. Direct contact with a point will not result in an electrical shock sensation. Shockless or current limited static eliminators should be used in installations where contact with personnel is likely.

Hot (also called "nonshockless") static eliminators are designed to offer greater efficiency in certain restrictive applications involving extremely high charges or dirty environments. The high voltage power supply is coupled directly to the emitter points. Hot static eliminators should only be used when contact with personnel is unlikely and there are no flammable materials present.

What are the proper locations for a static control bar? The best locations for a static bar are usually just after the area where the static is being generated or just before the area where the problem is located. electrostatic field meters provide an easy way to locate and identify the magnitude of the static charge buildup causing your specific problems.

The material to be neutralized should have a background of free air and NOT be in contact with another surface as it passes the static bar. Static charges cannot be reduced when two surfaces are in intimate contact.

Static bars may be mounted in any position provided the emitter points face the material to be neutralized. Bars can also be mounted on either side or both sides of the material.

Static bars should be mounted 1/2" to 1" away from the charged material. The exceptions are the Blue Bars, R50 and R51. These bars can be located up to 6" away from the charged surface of moving materials.

Static bars MUST be grounded for proper operation and safety.

How do I maintain my static control bar?

A properly maintained static bar will give you high performance over its lifetime. Maintaining your static bar requires regular cleaning and operational testing.

Before cleaning, disconnect power to the static bar.
Using compressed air, blow the dirt from the face and casing of the bar and mounting hardware. Make sure to direct the air stream inside the bar if the points are enclosed.
Using a stiff brush, clean the area around each pin.
To remove paint and ink buildup, use only Isopropyl alcohol. Wipe off the solvent with a clean, dry rag. DO NOT hang rags on the static bar. This could cause a fire.
Visually inspect the cable, bar and power supply for damage.
Test the operation of a random number of pins across the bar using a SIMCO Static Bar Checker.

How do I choose the static control bar? that will perform best for my application?

Many variables determine which static bar will perform best. Variables include:

how high of a charge is on the surface
web speed
mounting restrictions
application's environment
length of the static control bar needed