What is ESD? Learn more about the basics of electrostatic charge

Electrostatic charge occurs when electric charges are separated. This happens, for example, when two different types of material are rubbed against each other or separated.

It often occurs in normal everyday situations, such as when walking across a carpet in plastic-soled shoes. This leads to predominately negative electric charges that spread across the entire object or body being absorbed. Should the object or body then come into contact with another conductive object or grounding (e.g. a heating device), this charge abruptly flows off.

ESD is short for electrostatic discharge. Large differences in potential (different voltages) cause a short electrical current – either in the form of a spark or disruptive discharge. However, many electrostatic discharges occur below the threshold of human perception, but can still cause damage – to electronic assemblies for example. For a human to perceive static discharge, it needs to have reached around 3,000 volts. In comparison, 30 volts are already enough to destroy a semiconductor assembly.

An ESD protected area, also known as an EPA (electrostatic protected area), provides effective protection against damage caused by electrostatic discharge. All precautionary measures are taken here to be able to work with electrostatically sensitive assemblies without damaging them.

The Hoffmann Group provides you with everything from a single source:
-We can develop a tailor-made EPA for you
-And provide you with the appropriate products for dealing with ESD-sensitive assemblies.