Ionizers and Static Eliminators

Static eliminators or static ionizers eliminate static and dust and can neutralize and clean surfaces at remote distances. Static neutralization is a practical method of static reduction; however, complete static elimination is not readily attainable. In its simplest form, a static eliminator or static ionizer is a static reduction device that produces positive and negative ions which are attracted to an unbalanced surface or material. As long as friction is not re-introduced, static electricity remains at minimum levels. Since static eliminators vary in terms of capabilities, a careful consideration of performance specifications is important part of product selection.

Most static eliminators work by placing a high voltage on a sharp point in close proximity to a grounded shield or casing. As the high voltage alternating current (AC) pulses through the 60-cycle operation, the air between the sharp points and the grounded casing is broken down by a static ionizer, generating both positive and negative ions. Half of the cycle generates negative ions. The other half generates positive ions. Research suggests that a 5 mm pitch is ideal for most static reduction devices. A tighter pitch does not necessarily increase the effectiveness of static elimination devices such as static neutralizers and static cleaners. Static eliminators are often made of stainless steel fiber and conductive acrylics; however, the use of fibrous static reduction materials is not recommended if fiber shedding could cause electrical problems inside machinery. In such cases, liquid static cleaners are suitable choices.

Static eliminators are used to reduce static electricity generated by production processes that involve plastics, paper, textiles, and other non-conducting materials. Static ionizers, static cleaners, and static neutralizers are also used to improve air quality by attracting and removing airborne dust. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends the installation of a static eliminator or static cleaner for coating and printing applications.

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