The issue:

In web processes, such as rotogravure printing, static electricity is a frequent, annoying, andoften expensive source of production problems. If flammable solvents are used in the process,static electric charges can constitute an ignition source. Charging of webs can occur duringunwinding, travel over rollers, pressing between rolls, or contact with coating rolls. Charginggenerally will increase with increasing web speed, tension, and roller wrap angle; a finer rollsurface finish will enhance charging by increasing the area of roll-web contact. Web slippageover roll surfaces, caused by differential web speed or roll malfunction, can also significantlyincrease charging.

Risk mitigation is therefore essential to prevent a potentially hazardous situation.

The remedy:

Position Valstat ATEX certified static eliminating bars, as illustrated below. Each bar produces abalanced flow of positive and negative ions, directed towards the charged substrate andneutralising it. The possibility of a spark due to an electrostatic discharge from the fast movingfilm or paper is therefore eliminated and the working environment is much safer.

AxisValence offers a range of off-the-shelf and customised electrostatic control products likestatic eliminators, charging systems, static charge monitoring systems, for industrial applications.Contact us to know more.