SMC Static Control: Eliminating Static Charge

Static charge arises wherever materials touch and separate again: when unwinding films, on conveyor belts, when gripping and placing plastic parts or during packaging. The consequences are dust attraction, parts and films that stick, handling disruptions and discharges that can damage sensitive electronics. SMC offers a broad range of ionizers and measuring technology for this, which we select for you as an SMC partner.

How does an ionizer work?

An ionizer generates positively and negatively charged ions and brings them onto the charged surface by air flow or fan. There they balance out the charge. A balanced ion balance, a suitable distance to the target and clean emitters are important, because contaminated electrode needles reduce the effect. Many SMC devices therefore report contamination and errors themselves.

Typical problems

  • Dust and particles: Charged parts attract dirt, which leads to rejects in assembly, painting, printing and optics.
  • Sticking and clinging: Films, paper, cardboard and plastic parts are hard to separate, stack or place.
  • Discharges on electronics: High charges can damage sensitive components. Versions with low ion amplitude are available for this.
  • Process disruptions: Parts jump, jam or do not lie cleanly.

The right SMC solution

Bar ionizers: area coverage across the width

For webs, conveyor lines and wide workpieces. The IZS is available in 32 standard lengths from 340 to 2500 mm, optionally with feedback sensor or as a dual AC version for sensitive electronics.

Nozzle ionizers: targeted and space-saving

For small targets, tight installation spaces and spot treatment. The IZN10E is compact with its own high-voltage supply. The IZT43 has a small head with a separate controller, drives up to four nozzles and according to SMC reaches up to 2000 mm.

Fan ionizers: without compressed air

The IZF10 ionises drawn-in ambient air and works up to 1200 mm distance. Useful at workstations and machines without a compressed air connection.

Ionizer blow gun and dust box: manual cleaning

The IZG10 removes dust and charge in a single step. The ZVB cleans small and medium-sized parts in a box with ionizer and dust collection.

Measuring and monitoring

With the handheld meter IZH10 (up to ±20,000 V) you check how strongly parts are charged and whether an ionizer is working. The monitor IZE11 with sensor IZD10 monitors the charge continuously and provides switching and analog signals.

How to proceed

  1. Measure the charge: Use a handheld meter to find out where and how strongly parts are charged.
  2. Choose an ionizer: Type according to width, distance, available space and availability of compressed air.
  3. Position and adjust: Check distance and ion balance, verify the effect with the meter.
  4. Monitor continuously: Use a sensor and monitor and clean the emitters regularly.

The data given are manufacturer data and depend on the individual case. Details can be found on the product pages.

Products

You will find all products in the collection Static Control and Ionizers. Related: SMC Energy Saving (saving compressed air), Compressed air preparation, service units and Accessories, tubing and fittings.

Sources: SMC product catalogue Static Control (IZS ↗).

Do you have a problem with static charge? Get in touch – we will advise you on selecting suitable SMC products.