ESD: What it is and how it affects electronic devices

Electrostatic discharges, better known as ESD (Electrostatic Discharge) is a phenomenon that occurs when the electricity accumulated in an object is suddenly released when it touches another object with a different electrical charge. This phenomenon, although natural and common, can cause serious damage to electronic devices, since integrated circuits are extremely sensitive to these discharges.

The consequences of ESD can range from sporadic failures in electronic equipment up to permanent breakdowns, resulting in significant economic losses for industries such as electronics and manufacturing. In this article, we'll explore in depth what ESD is, how it affects devices, and what measures can be taken to minimize its effects.

What is electrostatic discharge (ESD)?

La electrostatic discharge It is the result of the accumulation of electrical charge on an object that is suddenly discharged. This phenomenon occurs when two bodies with different electrical charges come into contact or separate. A classic example is when we rub a balloon against our hair and then see how the hair sticks to it.

In industrial and electronic environments, this buildup of charge can be dangerous. Materials can become charged with static electricity for a variety of reasons, such as friction with other surfaces, the transport of gases or liquids through pipes or the handling electronic components without proper equipment. This highlights the importance of knowing What is ESD and how it affects devices to be able to take the necessary precautions.

ESD risks in industry and electronic devices

The effects of ESD can range from mild discomfort to severe damage to electronic devices and significant risks in industry. These are some of the main dangers of electrostatic discharge:

Damage to electronic components

On Modern electronic components are extremely sensitive ESD. Even with discharges of just 30 to 100 volts, an electronic circuit can be damaged without leaving any visible evidence of the problem. This makes detecting and repairing damage complicated and expensive.

When these discharges affect electronic devices, they can generate intermittent faults, malfunctions, or even the total destruction of the component. In a manufacturing environment, this can translate into large economic losses due to the need to discard defective materials. These types of problems are similar to those that can arise with devices that fail for other reasons.

electromagnetic interference

In addition to physical damage, ESD can cause electromagnetic interference (EMI), affecting communication between nearby electronic devices. This interference can cause errors in data transmission or malfunctions in industrial equipment, causing production and quality problems.

Risk of fires and explosions

In environments where they are manipulated flammable materialsIn industries such as chemical plants, gas plants or oil industries, an electrostatic discharge can generate a spark powerful enough to cause fires or explosionsThese types of accidents can be devastating, causing property damage and endangering the lives of workers.

According to labor reports, thousands of incidents related to electrical problems occur each year, highlighting the importance of adopting preventive measures.

Types of damage caused by ESD

The damage that ESD can cause to electronic devices can be classified into two large groups:

• Catastrophic failure: This occurs when a component stops functioning completely after a shock. In this case, the damage is obvious and can be quickly detected during inspection.
• Latent damage: It is a more dangerous type of damage, since the affected device can continue to function apparently well, but with internal deterioration that will reduce its useful life or generate intermittent failures in the future.

Latent damage is particularly problematic in industry, as products may pass initial quality testing but fail later once in the hands of customers. This can result in problems similar to those faced by users when experience failures on their devices.

How to prevent ESD damage

To minimize the risk of ESD damage to electronic devices, it is essential to take certain protective measures:

Use of appropriate materials

The clothing, footwear, and tools used in industrial environments can make a big difference in preventing electrostatic discharge. It is recommended to wear:

• Dissipative clothing and footwear to prevent the accumulation of electrical charges.
• Grounded gloves and wristbands to minimize the impact of electrostatic charge on the body.
• Tools with insulating or dissipative handles to prevent accidental discharges.

The correct implementation of these measures is essential for safe handling of electronic components. It is also important to consider the working environment, as it directly influences the possibility of static charge buildup. For example, the flashing white light may be a sign of more serious electrical problems in the work area.

Control of the work environment

The work environment plays a key role in the generation of electrostatic charges. Some factors to consider include:

• RH: Maintaining a humidity level between 40% and 60% reduces the buildup of static electricity.
• Dust and dirt reduction: The accumulation of particles can promote the accumulation of electrostatic charge.

Grounding Protocols

All sensitive materials and devices must be grounded to prevent the buildup of static charges. This can be achieved by using:

• Antistatic floors and mats that safely dissipate electrical charges.
• Grounding bracelets and anklets to prevent workers from acting as discharge drivers.

The proper implementation of these measures significantly reduces the risk from ESD damage and protects both electronic devices and the operators who handle them.

Electrostatic discharges can cause costly and dangerous problems in industry and electronic devices. From signal interference to catastrophic failures and serious accidents, ESD represents a risk that should not be underestimated. With appropriate prevention strategies, these effects can be minimized and equipment integrity and workplace safety ensured.