How does epoxy ESD flooring protect sensitive electronic equipment?

Epoxy ESD coating shields sensitive electronic components from the impact of electrostatic discharge (ESD) — a momentary release of electricity that can destroy or disfigure electronic circuits.

What is Electrostatic Discharge (ESD)?

ESD happens when two distinct electrical potential surfaces touch or move close to one another, creating an opportunity for temporary current flow. Electrostatic discharge can:

  • Damage microchips or circuit boards
  • Data can be lost or destroyed
  • Causes equipment to fail early
  • Removes safety hazards in explosive atmospheres

Voltages of as low as 30-100 volts (which are generally invisible and imperceptible to human beings) can destroy sensitive components such as semiconductors or ICs.

Benefits of Epoxy ESD Flooring

1. Releases Static Charges Harmlessly

ESD epoxy floor contains conductive material (such as carbon fibers or conducting fillers) which:

  • Permits static electricity to flow harmlessly through the floor
  • Grounding of the charges by copper grounding strips or wires
  • Prevents electrostatic charging of persons, carts, or equipment

2. Repels Static Due to People

Individuals walking or traversing through common floors can generate static charges. Epoxy ESD flooring:

  • Reduces foot traffic, rolling chair, or cart-induced accumulation of static
  • Functions in addition to ESD-safe shoes or mats to repel

3. Provides Controlled Surface Resistance

ESD epoxy coatings are designed to have a controlled surface resistance (usually in the range of:

  • Maintains resistance at safe levels to enable steady discharge — not too rapid (which sparks) nor too slow (which permits buildup)

4. Creates an ESD-Safe Zone for Electronics

In uses such as:

  • Assembly of electronics
  • Semiconductor production
  • Data centers
  • Aerospace
  • Pharmaceutical R&D

ESD flooring is only one component of a comprehensive ESD-safe environment, which includes

  • Antistatic workstations
  • Grounded people (wrist straps)
  • Antistatic clothing and equipment

Testing and Grounding

Upon installation, the floor is:

  • Verified with surface resistance meters
  • Physically grounded at multiple locations to redirect charge to ground

Benefits Summary

Benefit

Description

Equipment Protection

Diverts static from boards, circuits, and sensors

Reduces Downtime

Eliminates expensive equipment failure or rework

Compliance

Complies with industry standards (IEC 61340, ANSI/ESD S20.20)

Integrated Grounding

Creates fully grounded work surface

Easy Maintenance

unless, smooth surface that’s easy to clean and service

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