With the advancement of technology, the production and use of electronic components and sensitive equipment have become increasingly common. Since electronic devices and components carry electrical charges, they are also at risk of electrostatic discharge (ESD). In this article, we will address the questions: "What is ESD?", "How does it occur?", and "Why is ESD important?".

What is ESD?

Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) is the sudden transfer of electrical charges from one object to another. ESD usually occurs due to differences in electrical charges between people or objects. For instance, in our daily lives, we experience an electric shock when we get out of a car and touch something made of metal.

How Does ESD Occur?

ESD can happen when two charged objects come into contact or are separated. This difference in charge can cause a sudden flow of high-voltage electric current. This current can damage sensitive components. Moreover, the risk of ESD increases in environments with low humidity because moisture can prevent the discharge of electrical charges.

The Importance of ESD

ESD can pose a serious threat to electronic components and devices. Sudden changes in charge can affect the performance of components or even cause them to fail completely. This can result in significant material and functional losses in production lines or any area where electronic devices are used. Damage caused by ESD is often microscopic and invisible, leading to device failures over time.

At the same time, when non-conductive materials such as shoe soles and flooring surfaces come into contact, static electricity can form. The amount of static electricity stored in your body depends on materials, clothing, weather conditions, and indoor climate, but it reaches its highest levels when humidity is low. For example, on a cold day, we experience this when our hair stands on end and becomes charged with static electricity or when we feel a tiny electric shock when touching metal.

ESD Control and Prevention Methods

Various methods are used to minimize the risk of ESD and protect electronic devices. Materials designed to resist ESD are developed and used in production environments. Using antistatic flooring, clothing, and tools can reduce the risk of ESD. By using conductive materials such as ESD-approved shoes or clothing, you can minimize static electricity and discharge it from your body, thus avoiding transferring static electricity to the materials you work with.

Additionally, measures such as training employees about ESD and storing ESD-sensitive devices in special packaging can be implemented.

Considering the sensitive nature of electronic components and devices, ESD is a danger that should be taken seriously. The sudden discharge of electrical charges can cause permanent damage to components. Therefore, taking precautions and control measures against ESD in production processes and the use of electronic devices is of great importance. ESD-designed safety shoes can prevent many damages while also ensuring the safety of workers and employees.