Ionizers

ESD ionizers work by releasing positively and negatively charged ions into the air. These ions then attach themselves to any nearby objects with a static charge. This effectively neutralises the static charge and prevents it from damaging sensitive electronic components.

In dry working environments, insulators can easily charge with static electricity. For this reason, use of ESD ionizers is especially recommended when relative humidity is under 30%. Always use ionizers with the proper grounding equipment, such as wrist straps and table mats, for effective operation.

Several types of ESD ionizers are designed to provide different features and fulfill the requirements of specific workplaces and applications.

• Bench top ionizers. Low maintenance, compact and light. They can fit in small spaces and be easily moved between workbenches. These ionizers can either be placed on the bench or suspended through a mounting arm.
• Overhead ionizers. Larger ionizers with multiple fans. They are suspended above the bench. This method of ionization is much less likely to cause items to block the flow of ionized air. Furthermore, the downward airflow is more consistent over the entire bench.
• Ion bars. A type of compact overhead ionizers, to be used in smaller environments.
• Precision ionizers. Compact devices that use an ionized air stream to remove charged debris in small areas. Precision ionizers can be mounted on the workbench or come in the form of a handheld "ion gun". They are activated with a trigger or switch.