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Electrostatics

Many industrial processes are hampered by the presence of static electricity. Problems range from poor powder flow to surface contamination and shocks to personnel.

Electrostatic discharges can also trigger fires and explosions in industry endangering life and causing thousands of pounds worth of damage.

Some companies are not even aware that these problems are due to static. However, once the cause is identified, a workable solution can be provided.

HOW CHILWORTH CAN HELP

Consultancy
Laboratory testing
Incident Investigation
Contract R&D
Expert Witness
Tailored or off-the-shelf solutions

INNOVATIVE APPLICATIONS OF ELECTROSTATICS

Electrostatics can also be harnessed for beneficial uses in a range of areas, with enormous potential for commercial development.

OUR CURRENT RESEARCH

Powder Manipulation
Materials Separation
Liquid Atomisation

Ian Pavey is head of electrostatics at Chilworth Technology. He was the leader of a multinational research programme worth 1.5 million ECU investigating powder handling and processing problems caused by static electricity in industrial processes. Ian is also a former committee member of the Static Electrification Group of the Institute of Physics.

His expertise is supported by a team of specialists and state-of-the-art laboratory facilities.

For further information or to find out if your problem is caused by electrostatics, please contact lan Pavey.

Publications

	Electrostatic Hazards in the Process Industries This paper provides a technical overview of the subject of electrostatic hazards. It includes a discussion on some of the basic concepts and identifies a number of ways static hazards can be addressed. Available for download to Subscribers

	ELECTROSTATIC TECHNOLOGY BROCHURE Detailing our range of electrostatic technology services covering consultancy, laboratory testing, hazard assessment, R&D and training. Download .pdf

	SAPH LEAFLET A complete low cost package of electrostatic measurements providing a foundation for electrostatic hazard assessments and a rating for materials potential handling problems. Download .pdf

	STATIC ELECTRICITY & RELATIVE HUMIDITY DATASHEET If static is believed or suspected to be a hazard it is crucial to understand the effect of Relative Humidity on the electrostatic properties of the material involved. Only then will it be possible to propose effective measures for the avoidance of static hazards and solving electrostatic problems. Available for download to Subscribers

	STATIC ELECTRICITY AND ATEX / DSEAR DATASHEET In June 2003, it became a legal requirement throughout Europe that new and modified plant must comply with the requirements of the European Directive ATEX 137, which in the U.K. is implemented as part of the DSEAR 2002 regulations. Of all sources of ignition that must be considered under this legislation, the ATEX Directive draws explicit attention to only one – STATIC ELECTRICITY Download .pdf

	STATIC ELECTRICITY AND FIBCs DATASHEET Flexible Intermediate Bulk Containers (FIBCs) are used for the storage, packaging and transportation of powders and granules in many industries. What is not always appreciated is that basic FIBCs can produce electrostatic discharges capable of igniting flammable gases, vapours and dust clouds. Download .pdf

	STATIC ELECTRICITY AND POWDERS DATASHEET This document provides some background information on powder handling problems from static and the risk of fire and explosions from electrostatic ignition sources. It offers a structured approach to assessing the problems and hazards for a particular process. Download .pdf