The combination of ESD flooring and footwear can be an effective way to ground personnel to control electrostatic discharges when using a wrist strap is not practical. For this system to be effective, the ESD flooring and footwear must have a low enough resistance to allow the voltage from the operator to flow to ground. There also must be a good contact between the person and the ESD footwear.
While ESD shoes may be made with conductive materials, they require a layer of perspiration in the sock to provide a path-to-ground. This is a concern because there are many variables between people. Per ESD Handbook TR20.20 section 5.3.3.5 Common Testing Problems “Occasionally, footwear may indicate a high resistance… [A contributor being] heavy or insulative socks, or the absence of a sweat layer due to differences in temperature between the inner surfaces of the shoes and the wearer’s feet.”
You may see inconsistent resistance measurements from person to person, especially during colder months when employees wear heavier socks and sweat less. One person may fail a test at the start of a shift, and pass ten minutes later after a sweat layer is formed.
How much time is wasted waiting for shoes to pass a test?
Or worse, how many sensitive items does a person come into contact with before their ESD shoes are truly acting as a path-to-ground?
Eliminate these variables and ensure a consistent path-to-ground with conductive ESD socks from Transforming Technologies. ESD socks are made with conductive yarn which provides a reliable electrical path from the start and rely less on the wearer’s skin resistance for repeatable performance regardless of the environment.
Choosing An ESD Floor is an Important Step in Eliminating ESD Damage
An ESD Floor mat is a very important
part of a Static Protected Area. ESD
mats are designed to eliminate static on its surface and of people standing
upon it. A conductive material embedded
within the mat draws in all the static and sends it to ground (earth). This is
usually accomplished by connecting the mat to ground (typically the center
screw of an outlet) with a floor mat ground cord. It’s important to wear ESD
footwear such as heel grounders or ESD shoes when using an ESD floor mat,
otherwise the static will stay on the body.
A quick search online or in ESD
catalogs reveal a myriad of ESD floor mat options. What are the main
considerations in choosing an ESD mat?
Intended Use: Where are you
putting the floor mat? Different styles work best in different locations.
Material: Are you
trying to protect your floors from wear-and-tear? The floor mat material makes
a difference.
ESD Properties: Not all ESD
floor mats have the same ESD properties.
ESD Mats: Intended Use
ESD mats are generally found in three categories: Anti-Fatigue, Floor Runners and Floor Tiles. The type you choose depends on the intended use: Will people be standing on them for long periods of time? Choose an ESD Anti-Fatigue Mat. Do you need to cover the floor? Will wheeled carts need to roll over them? Choose a ESD Floor Runner. Do you have a large are to cover? ESD Floor Tiles may be your answer.
ESD Mats: Anti-Fatigue Matting
ESD Anti-fatigue mats, research shows, make a more comfortable worker, which makes a more productive worker with fewer injuries and increased productivity! ESD Anti-fatigue comfort mats are essential where workers stand to help ease leg, foot, and lower back fatigue and pain. Anti-fatigue mats come in a variety of styles and thicknesses to meet your needs and budget. Some are made from spongy foam material that is soft to the touch and others are made from rubber that may feel hard at first. You need to stand on a mat for an extended period of time to truly evaluate it. You may have to try our several different types to find the style you prefer.
ESD Mats: Floor Runners
“Floor runner†is a term that is used to describe mats that are long and narrow and that cover large areas. ESD Floor runners are typically found in building entrances, hallways, and in front of long workstations. They are usually thin so as not to be a trip hazard and provide little, to no anti-fatigue comfort. Common ESD Floor runners may have a V-Groove or a smooth surface. Some runners are designed to be durable and ridged enough to to be used with rolling ESD chairs.
ESD Mats: Floor Tiles
In some applications, it is preferable to cover a large section of a
floor or the entire room with ESD matting.
ESD tiles are used like puzzle pieces, interlocking together to build
out large floors. ESD tiles can come in
laminate, vinyl or rubber tiles. Laminate tiles are usually thin and ridged and
many types require you to glue them down. Rubber tiles can be larger and thick
and provide anti-fatigue properties. Some
vinyl tiles are extremely durable, able to withstand forklifts. A benefit of non-glued down ESD tiles is that
they can be disassembled and reconfigured or moved to a new location.
ESD Mats: Composition:
ESD floor mats are usually made from
vinyl or rubber. Vinyl mats may be softer
and less expensive, but are less durable than rubber mats. The most durable
mats are made from rubber in which a single layer is molded into shape. Some
floor mats use both: a durable rubber top layer and a spongy vinyl bottom. These mats may sound like the best of both
worlds, but tend to delaminate over time and fall apart. Thickness, texture, and cushioning of the mat
are also concerns depending on the application.
Regardless of composition, all mats should meet or exceed the
requirements of ANSI ESD-S20.20 (see below).
ESD Mats: Electrical Performance:
All static control mats are not created
equally. The terms insulative, conductive, and dissipative are all terms that
subdivide ESD materials based on their individual surface resistance. Surface
resistance is a measurement of how easily an electric charge can travel across
a medium (Visit here to learn How To Test ESD Mats). For most applications, ESD floor mats
should be in the conductive range. Floor
mats can become dirty over time which effects their ESD properties, so you want
to start with a conductive mat to ensure you are grounded. Conductive materials have a
surface resistance of less than 1 x 10^ 5 ohms/square. Dissipative items have a
surface resistance of more than 1 x 10^ 5 ohms/square but less than 1 x10 ^11
ohms/square. An insulative material is one that has a surface resistance of greater than 1 x 10 ^12
ohms/square.
ESD Mats: Sizes:
ESD floor mats typically come in
workstation sized mats such as 2’x3’ and 3’x5’, interlocking sections or in long
rolls. The material is easy to cut and
has a long shelf life so if you have more than one area to cover or expansion
is a possibility, purchase a full roll and cut pieces as needed. Many suppliers also provide ready-to-use
pre-cut mats with grounding hardware already installed. These mats can be more expensive, but it can
also be a great time saver.
Conclusion:
When choosing an ESD mat, first use your
specific application to narrow your choices, such as mat material and
electrical properties. Carefully plan
and budget your workstation so that you can choose to purchase a full roll or a
pre-cut mat. Finally, do not let cost
dictate your decision – saving a few dollars on low-quality matting could have
very costly consequences via catastrophic damage, latent failures and customer
complaints.
For help choosing
your ESD mat, please call Transforming Technologies at 419-841-9552 or email
info@transforming-technologies.com
Transforming Technologies, proudly introduces, our new line of dual conductor coil cords, wrist straps and our exceptional resistance workstation monitor, the CM2015.
Dual conductor resistance workstation monitoring is the most reliable grounding system available. Resistance monitors use specialized wrist bands and ground cords which contain two independent conducting elements that provide fail-safe ground protection. The CM2015 uses only 200mv and continuously monitors two (2) operators and two (2) work surfaces
Designed to compare with 3M* dual conductor wrist straps, Transforming Technologies now offers a value alternative for these premium products. We incorporate the best design elements of expired patent # 5,018,044 with our own experience making premium quality ESD products. Transforming Technologies and 3M’s dual conductor products are functionally equivalent. The wristbands, coil cords and resistance monitors can be use together in any combination!
Utilizing very precise, low voltage, resistive loop technology, the CM2015 is an extremely sensitive and reliable instrument that uses the operator’s skin resistance to determine if the system is operating properly.
Transforming Technologies Dual Conductor Coil Cords provide unmatched reliability and value. The CC3000 features a double insulated jacket that provides incredible durability.
A wide diameter straight plug makes it easy to insert and remove the cord from a remote input jack. The CC2080 series features dual grey and black 4mm sockets                               help maintain a constant connection.
Our Mission
Transforming Technologies’ mission is to provide you with the highest quality ESD products in the industry. We continuously research and develop new technology in static control so that we can provide you the best products possible. Our name is not a coincidence, it is our goal to transform the ESD industry and we do that one new and unique product at a time.
Transforming Technologies has the ESD protection you need.
Transforming Technologies VinylStat FM7 chair mats are the perfect solution for grounding chairs in an office or manufacturing environment. It is made of a rigid conductive vinyl that protects carpets from wear and tear while providing a path-to-ground for static charges.
Features:
The FM7 mats are a single layer of conductive vinyl, 0.090†thick, die cut to fit under typical desks. Surface resistivity is 10^3 – 10^6. Meets or exceeds requirements of ANSI ESD-S20.20 and the recommendations of ESD STM7.1.
Benefits of the Transforming Technologies VinylStat FM7ESD Matting:
Die cut rigid conductive matting allows chairs to be grounded
High levels of flexibility
Mat can be used in areas subjected to heavy traffic, most liquids & withstand wear and tear.
Specifications of the Transforming Technologies conductive Comfort GEL ESD Matting:
Surface resistivity is 10^3 – 10^6. Meets or exceeds requirements of ANSI ESD-S20.20 and the recommendations of ESD STM7.1.
This week’s ESD Q&A question comes from StaticCare reader Gina, she asks:
Question: What would be the the advantages or disadvantages of using a single wire or dual wire monitor?
Answer:
Hello Gina,
This is a good question.
Single wire monitors work on capacitance or inductance and use single wire wrist straps. They send a signal
The CM410 is a One Operator and Bench Single Wire Continuous Monitor.
down the wire to the wrist strap and expects to encounter some capacitance (approximately that of a person). If there is a mass indicated at the end of the coil cord, the monitor assumes that the person is connected.
These systems work okay, but they can be fooled. Some people have dry skin and do not make good contact with the wrist strap. The single wire monitors are not able to detect if the person is actually electrically connected.
Dual wire monitors are resistance based and they use dual wire wrist straps. They send a voltage up one wire and expect to receive a signal back from the second wire.  The wrist strap is divided and it relies on the operator’s skin to close the loop.  When this happens you can be assured that the operator is connected and that voltage is being drained through the wrist strap.  If the operator’s skin is dry and does not allow for the current to flow from one side of the strap to the other, the alarm will sound.
CM1602 is a One Operator and Bench Dual Wire Continuous Monitor
Dual wire monitoring is the only true wrist strap monitoring technology available. Single wire systems simply detect that a person is wearing a wrist strap and put the monitor into an unalarmed state. Resistance monitors actually measure the resistance of the wrist strap in combination with the person and alarm if the product exceeds preset levels. This accurate measurement ensures reliability.
TileSTAT Interlocking Rubber Anti-Fatigue ESD Tiles are a heavy duty, durable safety mat constructed of conductive nitrile rubber for use in even the harshest environments. TileSTAT mats feature a solid pebble embossed surface for improved traction, making this a good choice as a safety mat. The 3ft x 3ft interlocking mats fit together like a puzzle to create custom ESD workstations or complete room systems. The mats can be quickly dismantled to make moving and cleaning easy. Optional beveled borders can be added to the mats.
Meets or exceeds requirements of ANSI ESD-S20.20 and the recommendations of ESD STM7.1
Benefits & Features of the Transforming Technologies TileSTAT Anti-Fatigue ESD Tiles:
100% conductive rubber: 10^4-10^6
Solid top design for use in wet or dry locations
Interlocking sections snap together to easily create custom workstations
Optional yellow beveled borders for safety
Specifications of the Transforming Technologies conductive TileSTAT Anti-Fatigue ESD Tiles:
Point-to-point resistance: 10^4-10^6
Surface: Solid Top Pebble Emboss
Meets or exceeds requirements of ANSI ESD-S20.20 and the recommendations of ESD STM7.
For price and availability on the TileSTAT Interlocking Anti-Fatigue Tiles or for information on any products in Transforming Technologies full line of ESD products, please call 419-841-9552 or email info@transforming-technologies.com.
Microscopes are used for inspection and assembly of very small objects and are common instruments in electronic assembly operations.  It is critical that the microscope lenses remain clear and free of dust and other contamination and should be covered when not in use to protect the optics. Some manufactures of microscopes provide covers for the time when the scopes are not in use. Typically the covers are made of vinyl. While vinyl may provide good protection from dust and fumes, it is a significant static generator.
Common Vinyl Microscope Covers Generate a Significant Static Charge:
Static charge on vinyl covers is a problem in two ways: It may cause ESD damage to sensitive components and the static will attract dust which is a problem for the microscope. We measured a vinyl cover with a static field meter:
The vinyl cover in the photo above shows an electrostatic voltage of -5,500 volts.  Once the cover is removed from the scope the voltage jumps even higher to -12,000 volts.
ANSI/ESD S2020, the industry standard for ESD control programs, states that all nonessential insulators should be removed from the ESD protected area.
Since it is critical that microscopes be covered when not in use, it could be argued that the microscope cover is a process essential insulator. ANSI/ESD S2020, Section 8.3.1 states that the ESD control program “shall include a plan for handling process required insulators in order to mitigate field induced CDM damage.â€Â
The standard goes on to say that if the field is greater than 2000 volts/inch it must be kept more than 12†from the ESD sensitive item.  If the microscope is not in use, but work on ESD sensitive devices is being performed at the station, the vinyl scope cover becomes a significant risk.  The vinyl cover becomes even a greater risk if it is removed while there are ESD sensitive items at the workstation.
ESD Microscope Covers Are Static-Safe:
The best solution is to replace the vinyl cover with a microscope cover that is ESD safe, such as the Transforming Technologies MC1221W.  This scope cover is constructed of ESD safe material and does not generate a significant charge.
Even when the cover is removed, the charge remains very low and does not present an ESD threat to sensitive components in the area:
With Transforming Technologies’ MC1221W you can protect your microscope optics from contamination while keeping your work station ESD safe.
Transforming Technologies is proud to announce the addition of the StaticCare ESD Hand Lotion to our line of ESD Products.
StaticCareTM ESD Hand Lotion is specially created for use by individuals in the electronics industry. This fast absorbing, non-greasy ESD hand lotion enhances the contact between a persons skin and grounding devices such as wrist straps and heel grounders, specifically for those with dry skin. It is free of glycerin, mineral oils, silicones, and lanolin which will keep your work area ESD safe and free from contamination.
Directions
Apply a small amount of Static CareTM lotion with hands to desired areas where grounding devices are used. Rub evenly into skin until absorbed. Any excess lotion may be removed with a towel. To re-move from skin completely, warm water and a mild soap may be used.
Benefits & Features of the Transforming Technologies Antistatic Lotion:
Fast absorbing for improved contact be-tween personnel and grounding device
Contaminant free to keep work station ESD safe
Contains aloe vera, natural moisturizers, and vitamins to promote happy and healthy skinNon-greasy formula will not interfere with grip or agility
Clean and refreshing scent
Meets or exceeds requirements of ANSI ESD-S20.20 and ANSI/ESD S-6.1
Limited Warranty for our Ionizers and Test Equipment
Transforming Technologies expressly warrants that for a period of one (1) year from the date of purchase, Transforming Technologies ESD products will be free of defects in material (parts) and workmanship (labor). Within the warranty period, a unit will be tested, repaired or replaced at Transforming Technologies option, without charge. Call our Customer Service Department for a Return Material Authorization (RMA) and proper shipping instructions and address.
Our Mission
Transforming Technologies’ mission is to provide you with the highest quality ESD products in the industry. Occasionaly problems arise this We continuously research and develop new technology in static control so that we can provide you the best products possible. Our name is not a coincidence, it is our goal to transform the ESD industry and we do that one new and unique product at a time.
The WB5600 Series anti-allergy wrist band set is the ideal grounding device for people with allergies to common metals. It features hypoallergenic silver-plated nylon thread for conductivity and the back plate has a plastic cover so that metal does not come in contact with skin. This maroon colored wrist band and coil cord set features a 360 degree conductive contact around the wrist, providing maximum skin contact while allowing the skin to breathe.ÂÂ
The coil cord’s 2.5mm polyurethane coil insulation offers excellent coil memory. A classic snap comes in with 4mm snap and works in combination with most standard wristbands. A swivel type banana jack increases coil life and prevents cord tangles. Comes in 6’, 12’ or 20′ lengths.
Anti static wrist strap sets are great personal grounding solutions and the WB5600 series meets or exceeds requirements of ANSI ESD-S20.20 and ESDA Standard 1.1-2006.
 For price and availability on the WB5600 Series Anti-Allergy Wrist Strap Set or for information on any products in Transforming Technologies full line of ESD products, please call 419-841-9552 or email info@transforming-technologies.com.
You may see inconsistent resistance measurements from person to person, especially during colder months when employees wear heavier socks and sweat less. One person may fail a test at the start of a shift, and pass ten minutes later after a sweat layer is formed.
ANSI/ESD S2020, the industry standard for ESD control programs, states that all nonessential insulators should be removed from the ESD protected area.
