SMC ionisers for static environments

Static is problematic in the manufacturing environment, causing issues such as the presence of dust, the nuisance of products clinging to each other, plastic sheets not separating properly and even possible damage to electrical products. There is also the real hazard of a fire which can be caused by a spark in a chemically sensitive environment. SMC Pneumatics offers a solution to these manufacturing problems with its range of three different types of ionisers.

The bar type of ioniser is equipped with nozzles which generate charge and air, then blow the charge onto the application. This is suitable for applications such as PET environments, lamination and web printing. The bar type varies in length and performance options. The nozzles can be equipped with condition monitoring; therefore, easy maintenance and replacement of the nozzles are not a problem.

The ioniser can be ordered in a variant which is equipped with a sensor. The sensor has a feedback device which is able to determine if a positive or negative charge is required and will then generate accordingly. The charge relates back to a voltage so that the unit can measure the charge. This is communicated back to the ioniser and the ioniser will generate ions to balance out the charge.

An option without a sensor is also available. In this case, the unit will generate an alternate charge which ‘bombards’ the application with positive and negative ions until it neutralises the application.

The ioniser is also available in two other variants. The fan type will generate a charge and blow it over the affected area, making it especially suitable for environments where polystyrene is involved.

The nozzle type consists of a single nozzle and is for concentrated applications where a single area needs to be neutralised. The air supply is blown onto the area required.