Anti-Static Packaging and Electrostatic Discharge Explained
Anti-static packaging is a type of packaging that is made with anti-static agents, which are used to control static discharge and prevent electronic products from electrostatic effects. A buildup of static electricity can cause a product to ignite or to become inoperable. Many businesses suffer from product loss and missed opportunities by not properly packaging their electronics with the correct material.
Anti-static packaging is made with unique materials, often called additives, and is only available in certain types of packaging products. However, this type of packaging can provide you numerous benefits, which is why you should consider investing in anti-static packaging for your electronics.
What is Electrostatic Discharge?
Electrostatic discharge, often abbreviated as ESD, is the buildup of static electricity, which can cause failure of electronics or ignition in flammable objects. Experts estimate between 8% to 33% of electronics that arrive damaged are from electrostatic effects. ESD is estimated to cost the electronic industry billions of dollars annually.
Sources of Electrostatic Discharge
There are three sources of ESD:
People: a person’s body will begin to generate charges during normal activities, which can range from a few volts to thousands. If contact is made with a conductive item, then there will be a discharge that can result in ESD damage.
Equipment: running or moving equipment such as automated machines, conveyors, trolleys, and other equipment can create discharge, resulting in ESD damage.
Charged Insulators: plastic such as polyethylene, can generate charge and retain it readily. Fields from highly charged items can produce electrostatic effects in devices without physical contact, which is known as charge by induction.
*There is equipment and protective gear to prevent ESD damage, but for the purpose of this blog, we will just cover packaging.
Products That Need Electrostatic Protection
The ESD Association recommends that products equal or greater than 100 volts, should require electrostatic discharge protection, as these items can be more susceptible to damage or ignition. To help you get an idea whether you need electrostatic protection here is a list of examples:
- Electrical components such as semiconductors
- Microcircuits
- Computer hardware
- Televisions
- Medical equipment and devices
Anti-Static Packaging Products
Anti-static packaging is used to store, transport, and protect electronics. Most of these anti=static items are pink and are available in stock and custom.
Here are some of the most common types of anti-static packaging:
- Poly bags
- Bubble bags
- Ziplocks
- Foam
- Tubing
- Peanuts
- Pallet covers
- Stretch wrap
Anti-Static Packaging Benefits
Anti-static packaging is a protective measure used in a package. There can be many benefits in protecting your products such as:
- Limit inventory loss or product damage
- Higher customer satisfaction
- Save money on returns, replacements and repairs
- Prevent inventory shortages
- Prevent injury, fires, property damage and death
- Meet industry standards and retailer requirements
- Preserve your product and brand reputation
- Improved product durability and shelf-life
Where Can I Purchase Anti-Static or Electrostatic Discharge Packaging?
Anti-static and ESD packaging is not available by every packaging provider (manufacturer or distributor). Some packaging providers tend to supply more traditional packaging products such as corrugated boxes, POP displays, foam, poly bags, and folding cartons without the addition of ESD or anti-static materials. This may require you to research directories or local suppliers near you.
If you are interested in anti-static packaging, then contact Brown Packaging today. We supply United States businesses with a wide range of packaging ESD solutions including anti-static and conductive packaging (conductive items are in black).
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