How to Prevent Static Electricity in Plastic Processing Plants
Static electricity has permeated every aspect of our lives and production. Electronics factories, printing plants, and chemical plants are all experiencing its effects. Even the plastics industry, so closely related to our daily lives, has been impacted. Due to its excellent insulating properties, plastic is highly susceptible to static electricity generated during production processes such as handling, contact, separation, friction, collision, and electromagnetic induction. This static electricity can remain on the surface of materials for extended periods, accumulating to a certain voltage level and causing static hazards. So, how can we properly handle static electricity? See below.
For static electricity problems in the plastics industry, the commonly used methods are chemical and physical:
Chemical methods: This involves adding hygroscopic materials that are harmless to the plastic to reduce its surface resistance. The type of antistatic agent used depends on the type of plastic. Whether ionic or non-ionic, these are hygroscopic antistatic agents. After adding these additives, the materials absorb moisture from the air, reducing surface resistance and achieving antistatic properties.
Physical methods: The most common measures are grounding and maintaining the correct temperature and humidity in the working environment. Specialized static electricity elimination products can also be installed in work areas prone to static electricity generation.