STATIC

ELECTRICITY
COUNTERMEASURES

SEMINAR
 Contents
1 Basic Knowledge of Static Electricity············································································· 3

1-1 What is static electricity?······························································································ 3

1-2 Properties of static electricity······················································································· 5

1-3 The triboelectric series and its use·············································································· 6

1-4 A general guide regarding charge strength·································································· 7

2 Basic Knowledge of Static Electricity Solutions···························································· 8

2-1 Static electricity solutions for conductors····································································· 8

2-2 Static electricity solutions for insulators······································································· 9

3 Static electricity and the adhesion of foreign material················································ 14

3-1 Adhesion of foreign material to conductors································································ 14

3-2 Adhesion of foreign material to insulators·································································· 16

3-3 Specific solutions······································································································· 17

3-4 Effect of ionized air···································································································· 20

3-5 Examples of static eliminator applications································································· 21

4 Electrostatic breakdown································································································· 22

4-1 What is electrostatic breakdown?··············································································· 22

4-2 Mechanism of electrostatic breakdown······································································ 22

4-3 Amount of charge generated by electrostatic breakdown·········································· 23

4-4 Factors that cause electrostatic breakdown······························································· 23

4-5 Models of electrostatic breakdown············································································ 24

5 Basic Knowledge of Static Eliminators········································································· 25

5-1 Static Elimination Speed···························································································· 25

5-2 Ion balance················································································································ 25

5-3 Static elimination capabilities and the voltage application method···························· 26

5-4 Operating distance and voltage application method·················································· 30

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6 Using static eliminators·································································································· 34

6-1 Direction of movement for ion generation·································································· 34

6-2 How to install static eliminators·················································································· 36

6-3 Ion generation frequency··························································································· 41

6-4 Using the air purge function······················································································· 41

6-5 How to operate static eliminators (The importance of maintenance)························· 42

7 KEYENCE Static Eliminators (An introduction to the latest technology)··················· 51

7-1 I. R. G. Structure········································································································ 51

7-2 I. C. C. Method (Ion Current Control)········································································· 52

7-3 Sheath air guide structure·························································································· 56

7-4 Alarm outputs············································································································· 60

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1 Basic Knowledge of Static Electricity

1-1 What is static electricity?

(1) Factors that cause static electricity
It is well known that static electricity is generated by creating friction between two objects.
However, friction is not required for static generation. For example, static electricity can be
generated when two materials come in contact with each other, two materials are separated from
each other or simply with ion adhesion from the environment.

1. When friction occurs between two objects 2. When an object that is in contact with another object is peeled away

Crackle Crackle
Crackle Crackle

Crackle

Crackle
Crackle
Film, etc.

3. When a gas or liquid flows through a pipe or hose

Pipe / hose Crackle

Crackle

Liquid

In manufacturing sites, where repeated friction and separation are performed to a degree greater
than normal, conditions such as those listed above generate extreme amounts of static electricity.

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 (2) The principles of static electricity at the atomic level
Matter is composed of negatively (-) charged electrons and positively (+) charged protons. Normally,
the number of negatively (-) charged electrons and positively (+) charged protons is equal, creating a
stable state that is electrically neutral.

Ex. The structure of an atom

Normal Conditions
Positively (+) charged protons: 10

Negatively (-) charged electrons: 10

Because they are equal in number and opposite in
charge, they are in a stable, neutral state

But if two objects contact each other, create friction or are separated...

An electron shifts from one atom to another

Positively (+) charged protons: 10
Negatively (-) charged electrons: 9

Positively (+) charged

An electron from one atom joins another atom

Positively (+) charged protons: 10
Negatively (-) charged electrons: 11

Negatively (-) charged

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 1-2 Properties of static electricity
Because static is a type of electricity, it is necessary to understand positive (+) and negative (-)
static electricity.
The individual properties listed below identify the properties possessed by each type of static
electricity.
• Positive (+) static electricity: Electrical force works in a direction away from the charged object
• Negative (-) static electricity: Electrical force works in the direction towards the charged object

Positive (+) Negative (-)

charged object charged object
Positive (+) static electricity Negative (-) static electricity

Also, when materials that have been charged to the same polarity come in close proximity to each
other, a reactive force (repulsion) occurs between them. Additionally, with materials that have been
charged to different polarities, a force that draws them together (attraction) occurs.
The electrical force that is generated at this time is called "Coulomb force" (Unit: N), and the
relationship between the charge amount and force is expressed through "Coulomb’s law".

Coulomb force, which acts on point charges

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 1-3 The triboelectric series and its use
When 2 objects generate friction or come into contact with each other, they will be charged either
positively (+) or negatively (-) depending on the properties of the material.
Below is a rough guide that shows the ease of charge by difference in material.

◆ Triboelectric series
Air
Human body
Glass
Nylon
Fur
Lead
Silk
Aluminium
Paper
Steel
Wood
Amber
Nickel, copper
Gold, platinum
Natural rubber

Acetate
Polyester
Celluloid
Urethane
Polyethylene
Vinyl
Silicon
Teflon
◆ How to view the triboelectic series Sulfur
When two objects create friction or come into contact with each other, objects on the positive end
are typically charged positively, and items on the negative end are typically charged negatively.
Ex.
When paper and polyester come into contact with each other
Paper → positive charge
Polyester → negative charge
Materials with positions that are far in relation to each other within the triboelectric series create
friction that has a comparatively large charge amount.

Ex.
Friction between vinyl and Teflon → Charge amount: Small
Friction between glass and Teflon → Charge amount: Large
* Depending on temperature, humidity, or surface conditions, order in the series may be interchanged.

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 1-4 A general guide regarding charge strength
As a general guide for charge strength, the relationship between charge amount and the
associated sensation are shown below.

◆The relationship between a charged human body and electric shock

Electric shock potential of
Strength of electric shock
a human body [kv]

1.0 You don't feel anything at all

You feel the shock on the tips of your fingers but it does
2.0
not hurt
3.0 You receive a needle-like feeling and a pricking pain
5.0 You feel pain from the palm of your hand to your forearm
Your fingers feel strong pain and your upper-arm feels
6.0
heavy
7.0 Your fingers and palm feel strong pain and numbness
You experience a numb feeling from the palm of your hand
8.0
to your forearm
9.0 Your wrists feel strong pain and numbness
Your entire hand feels pain and you sense that current has
10.0
flown through you
All of your fingers feel strong numbness, and your entire
11.0
hand senses a strong shock
12.0 Your entire hand feels like it has received a strong blow
"Static electricity safety guidelines" from the National Institute of Industrial Safety

Static electricity that is at or less than 1 kV is hardly felt by the human body. However, in a
manufacturing facility, this can cause a wide variety of problems.

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2 Basic Knowledge of Static Electricity Solutions

2-1 Static electricity solutions for conductors

It is often thought that conductors don't carry a charge, but through conduction itself, charge may
occur.
Because conductors allow the flow of electricity, a method of static elimination is to connect the
conductor to a ground (earth connection). Through this, static electricity can be eliminated easily.

(1) The pros and cons of using a ground

• Pro
Makes static elimination easy. Simply connect the
conductor to a ground.

• Con
As a solution for conductors, this method is ineffective for
insulators since they do not conduct electricity.

(2) Static electricity solutions for the human body

The human body is a conductor, so using a wrist-strap like the one in the photo, is a generally well
known static electricity solution.

◆ Structure of a wrist-strap
A wrist-strap is not just a wire connected to an earth
connection, it has been internally wired with several
megaohms of resistance.

◆ How a wrist-strap works

• Prevents the human body from being charged by
connecting it to an earth connection.
• Reduces the discharge current when discharge
occurs from a device to the human body.

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 2-2 Static electricity solutions for insulators
Because insulators do not allow the flow of electricity, connecting to a ground, which is a method
of static elimination for conductors, does not reduce or eliminate static electricity.
There are a variety of static electricity solutions for insulators.

(1) Creating conduction (Resistance value 10 4 to 1010Ω: In the diffusible range of static electricity)
Even though static electricity cannot be removed from insulators (resin moulded products, rubber,
etc.) by grounding, there are two methods for creating conduction, which allow insulators to react
similarly to static elimination via grounding. One is by mixing the product or raw materials themselves
with conductive materials (carbon, metallic powder, etc.), and the other involves the application of an
anti-static agent.

1. Using anti-static spray

Anti-static spray
Film of surfactant As seen in the image on the left, anti-static
spray creates a film of surfactant on the
surface of the insulator and through the action
of the surfactant, absorbs moisture from the
Insulator surrounding air to form a conductive coating.

<Pros and cons>

Pro: Provides an easy and readily-available solution to static electricity.
Cons: The effect does not last long. Changes surface conditions of the material.

2. Methods to mix conductors into insulators Mixing conductive materials (carbon or

■ When using insulators ■ When conductors are mixed in... metallic powder) into insulators creates a
Electricity Electricity
structure in which electricity can flow.

Electricity doesn’t flow. Electricity flows.

<Pros and cons>

Pro: Provides a solution by utilizing a ground, just like conductors.
Cons: Cannot be added later. More expensive compared to normal products. Conductive film
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 Useful information: Resistance range
Resistance
value

Conductive Dissipative Insulative

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 (2) Environmental solutions
In general, static electricity occurs less in a humid environment, and is generally a greater concern
in a dry environment. Static electricity is largely influenced by the surrounding humidity.
In other words, when humidity is high, there is a large amount of moisture contained in the air, and
static electricity that has been generated is immediately discharged by that moisture in the air, thus
removing static electricity.
By using this natural phenomenon and controlling humidity, solutions to static electricity become
possible.
Additionally, the point at which static electricity begins to naturally discharge is at a relative humidity
of 65% or higher.

3
Charge voltage [kV]

0
0 20 40 60 80 100
Note) The above graph represents the typical trend. Humidity [%RH]

<Pros and cons>

Pro: You can create an atmosphere that prevents static charge by discharging static electricity as
soon as it is generated.
Cons: It is difficult to control all environments.
When introducing humidity controlling equipment, the cost is high.

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 (3) Solutions with a static eliminator (ionizer)
In this method, ions are generated and applied to the target. The static electricity is electrically neutralized by
the charge that the ions hold. (Ion: An atom or molecule that holds a charge through the transfer of electrons.)

<Blower-type static eliminator> <Bar-type static eliminator>

The mechanism of ion generation for a static eliminator

The atmosphere surrounding the electrode tips of an ionizer is electrically broken-down by corona
discharge energy, and ionized.
When positive high voltage is applied to the electrode tips, it primarily ionizes the water molecules in
the atmosphere and turns them into positive ions.
When negative high voltage is applied to the electrode tips, it primarily ionizes the carbon dioxide
and oxygen molecules in the atmosphere and turns them into negative ions.
Because ions of the same polarity as the applied voltage are generated by the electrode tips, ions
will be forced away from the front of the electrode tips as they are generated. This is due to the
repulsive force caused by Coulomb's law.

[Overview of ion generation through corona discharge]

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 The structure and mechanism of a static eliminator

As seen in the diagram on the left, a corona discharge static eliminator is

Electrode constructed from an electrode probe, a high-voltage power source, and a ground.
probe
By applying high-voltage (3 kV or more) to the electrode probe, a corona discharge
High-voltage is generated at the tip of the electrode probe.
power source
When a corona discharge occurs, the air surrounding the electrode probe is broken
down and produces ions. By applying these ions to the charged object, static
electricity can be eliminated.
(*) When positive voltage is applied, it will produce positive ions and when negative
Ground
voltage is applied, it will produce negative ions.

■ When positive (+) high-voltage has been applied ■ When negative (-) high-voltage has been applied

Electrode Electrode
probe probe

Positive (+) Negative (-)

Positive (+) Negative (-)
ion generation ion generation
high-voltage high-voltage

Ground Ground

Useful information: What is corona discharge?

High-voltage Corona discharge describes the phenomenon that
occurs when high-voltage is applied to a localized area,
such as an electrode probe tip, and discharges to the
ground.
In a typical environment, this phenomenon will occur
when a voltage of ±3 kV has been applied.

Electrode
probe tip

Ground

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3 Static electricity and the adhesion of foreign material

3-1 Adhesion of foreign material to conductors

(1) The mechanism of adhesion of foreign material to conductors

As seen in the diagram on the left, when positively

charged material comes close to a conductor, "electrostatic
induction" occurs within the conductor, and negative
electrons gather on the surface of the conductor.
Due to this, "Coulomb force" occurs between the conductor
and material. When the Coulomb force caused by static
electricity surpasses the weight of the material, the material
adheres to the conductor.
Even when the conductor has been grounded, if the
Metallic object
material itself is charged, "electrostatic induction" will occur,
and the material will adhere to the conductor.
In other words, grounding a conductor will not be effective
Positively (+) charged material
against the adhesion of foreign material, unless static
electricity is removed from the material itself.

(2) How to calculate the "Coulomb force" of foreign material

As seen in the diagram on the left, the attracting force

is calculated when the point charge of the material Q[C]
approaches the position d[m] on the conductor.
Through electrostatic induction of the conductor, -Q[C]
is generated inside the conductor. This is a point charge
that possesses the same electrostatic force as the point
charge approaching the conductor.
Metallic object This is called a "mirror-image charge" and the electrical
force for it is called "mirror-image force".

Additionally, this "mirror-image force" is expressed in the

formula below.

Q: Charge [C]
d: Distance [m]
ε 0: Vacuum permittivity

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 Useful information: What is electrostatic induction?
When a conductor draws close to a charged object, the electrons in the conductor move and the
side facing the charged object is charged with a polarity that is opposite that of the charged object.
This phenomenon is called "electrostatic induction".

Positively (+) Negatively (-)

charged object charged object

Negatively (-) Positively(+)

charged charged
Electrons Electrons

Conductor Conductor
As seen in the diagram above, the location that is closest in distance has the strongest electric
force. Due to this, the number of lines for the line of electric force increases. (Line density
increases)

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 3-2 Adhesion of foreign material to insulators
(1) The mechanism of adhesion of foreign material to insulators

As seen in the diagram on the left, when the

insulator and material are charged, they attract
each other just like the north and south poles of
magnets attract each other.
In this case, it is best to perform static
elimination for both the target and the adhering
material. However, if static elimination is
performed for only one of the sides, Coulomb
Insulator force will not occur, and effective static
elimination can still be performed.

Positively (+) charged material

(2) How to calculate the attraction force of foreign material

With objects that have a large surface area
to mass ratio, like film and sheet material, the
Coulomb force becomes far greater than the
mass of the object.
The image on the left shows the mechanism of
adhesion in which charged particles are drawn
to a film.
When the film side of an insulator is charged,
the electric field becomes E=σ/2ε0[V/m] when
the charge density of its surface is σ[C/m2].
When the charge amount of the charged
foreign material is Q [C], the foreign material
Insulator that is close to the insulator is drawn to the
charged surface with the force of F=Qσ/2ε0[N].

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 3-3 Specific solutions
(1) Solutions to prevent adhesion of foreign material
1. When adhesion to a conductor occurs
Because adhesion to a conductor is caused by "electrostatic induction", even if static electricity is
removed from the conductor, adhesion cannot be prevented as long as static electricity has not been
removed from the adhering material.
Therefore, a method that allows you to perform static elimination on the adhering material is required.
• Static elimination for the conductor
Even if static electricity is removed from the conductor, it will have no effect on the adhesion of foreign material.
• Static elimination for adhered material
Target of static elimination Conductor Insulator
Environmental Using a static eliminator
Static elimination Creating
Grounding solutions
method conduction
(humidity) Self-discharge system Voltage application system

Effectiveness × × △ × ◎
* When environment-based solutions are performed (humidity control), the adhering material or target will absorb moisture
and the material that was adhered with gravity or wind will become difficult to remove. Therefore, this method is listed as △ .

2. When foreign material adheres to insulators

Because the target of static elimination and the foreign material are both charged, the static
electricity of their respective surfaces produce an attractive force which then results in adhesion of
the foreign material.
Therefore, by performing static elimination for both the target of static elimination and the foreign
material, effectiveness is significantly improved. However, static elimination is still effective, even if
performed for one side only.
• Static elimination for insulators
Target of static elimination Conductor Insulator
Environmental Using a static eliminator
Static elimination Creating
Grounding solutions
method conduction
(humidity) Self-discharge system Voltage application system
Effectiveness × × △ △ ◎
• Static elimination for adhered material
Target of static elimination Conductor Insulator
Environmental Using a static eliminator
Static elimination Creating
Grounding solutions
method conduction Self-discharge system Voltage application system
(humidity)
Effectiveness × × △ × ◎

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 (2) Solutions following the adhesion of foreign material
It is ideal to perform static elimination before adhesion occurs, but it is often unclear as to when an
object is charged and it is also difficult to install static eliminators in all locations.
Due to this, methods to remove adhered objects are generally used as needed.

1. Conventional solutions to prevent adhesion

In the past, air guns were used to remove material that had adhered to the target.

Adhered material such as dust and particles

Compressed air supply

This method is effective for removing large, visible material that had adhered to the target. However,
the problems listed below may occur.
<Problems>
• Static electricity is generated due to friction created between the compressed air and target.
• Static electricity is generated due to friction created between the compressed air and adhered material.
• Static electricity is generated when removing adhered material from of the target.
• Foreign material that could re-adhere to the same target or another target is blown into the
surrounding air. This includes dust and foreign material found in the surrounding environment.
Problems such as those listed above may occur and actually cause additional materials to adhere.
(Particularly, dust and foreign materials that exist at a visually unrecognizable level)

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 2. Effective methods of static elimination
Because material that has become adhered via static electricity is not something that will fall off if
left alone, it is necessary to remove the static electricity that causes adhesion.
The effectiveness of static elimination methods against adhesion are displayed in the chart below.
Reason Reason
Static elimination method Effectiveness
(Static elimination for the target) (Static elimination for the adhered material)
Even if insulators are grounded, the state of It is impossible to ground all adhered
Grounding × static electricity will not be affected. material.

Even if static electricity can be removed,

It is impossible to create conduction for all
Creating conduction × adhesion due to electrostatic induction
adhered material.
cannot be prevented.

The amount of static electricity on the

Because moisture adheres to the surface of
the target, the adhered material becomes
Environmental solutions harder to remove. Also, because moisture
(humidity)
× cannot enter between parts that are in close
contact with each other, static electricity
cannot be fully removed.
adhered material can be reduced, but it
is difficult for adhered materials to fall off
due to moisture. (The influence of surface
tension) Depending on the weight and shape
of the adhered material, this method may
be effective in removing surrounding static
electricity.

The amount of ions generated by the self-

Self-discharge system
(Static elimination brush,
Using a static eliminator
discharge system is dependent on the amount
of static electricity possessed by the target
of static elimination. The amount of ions
generated becomes smaller because static
× electricity on the target surface experiencing
When static electricity has been created
on the adhered material, ions cannot be
generated from a self-discharge system

static elimination ribbon) adhesion creates an electric field between the static eliminator.
target and adhered material. For this reason,
static electricity cannot be removed unless a
sufficient amount of ions are produced.

Like moisture, because ions cannot enter

between parts that are in close contact with
Voltage application each other, applying a voltage application
system system static eliminator alone will not be as
(Generally referred to as
O effective as expected. Used in conjunction
ionizers) with air purging, it is possible to remove
static electricity from the entire surface of the
target.
Depending on the weight and shape, this
method may be effective in removing static
electricity around the adhered material. Used
in conjunction with air purging, it is possible
to remove static electricity from the adhered
material.

* Intended for conditions in which a voltage application system static eliminator supplies compressed air.

[Air purging] + [Voltage application system static eliminator]

is the most effective method!

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 3-4 Effect of ionized air
As discussed in the previous section, ions are sent in between the adhered material and target with
compressed air to perform static elimination.
The effectiveness of ionized air is as listed below. Ionized air is generated using a voltage
application method static eliminator.

Example of the effectiveness of ionized air

Elimination of debris and dust [%]

100%
90% 74%
80%
70%
60%
50%
40%
24%
30%
20%
10%
0%
Compressed air only Ionized air

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 3-5 Examples of static eliminator applications

Preventing the adhesion of dust in Preventing adhesion in the

food trays semiconductor front-end process

Static elimination in an air shower

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4 Electrostatic breakdown

4-1 What is electrostatic breakdown?

<Example of electrostatic breakdown>

Electrostatic breakdown is a phenomenon in which static electricity causes shorts between the
patterns of circuits that are inherently insulated, which conversely, shorts out the wiring.

4-2 Mechanism of electrostatic breakdown

Electrostatic breakdown is not a phenomenon that
is generated by merely being charged with static or more
electricity.
Discharging charged static electricity causes a large
current of electricity to flow throughout the circuitry,
and through this, heat is generated and produces an
electrical breakdown.
The graph on the right is just an example, but the
data shows that due to the flow of current during
discharge, the temperature can instantly reach up
Melting point of
aluminium

Melting point of
copper

Temperature
during discharge

to 3000°C. As you can see in this example, this

temperature is well above the melting points of
copper and aluminium.

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 4-3 Amount of charge generated by electrostatic breakdown
Typical manageable levels of static electricity are listed below.

• Semiconductor Industry → ±100 V or less (Tolerances vary depending on elements)

• LCD Industry → ±100 V or less
• MR Head → ±10 V or less
• GMR Head → ±5 V or less

4-4 Factors that cause electrostatic breakdown

Electrostatic breakdown is caused by heat that is generated when a large current flows due to the
discharge of static electricity. However, as seen in the diagram below, discharge will occur if one
side is at 0 V and the other side is charged.
Though if both sides possess the same amount of charge, or in other words, if there is no
difference in electric potential, then the discharge phenomenon will not occur.
From this, we can surmise that discharge, which is a contributing factor in electrostatic breakdown,
is largely influenced by the difference in electric potential between two objects and not just by the
amount of charge.
Additionally, the distance between both objects and their shapes also influence discharge to a
large degree.
(As objects become further apart, discharge will not occur without large differences in electric
potential. Also, similar probe-like, pointed objects produce discharge easier than similar flat
surfaces.)

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 4-5 Models of electrostatic breakdown
Based on the process of generation for the discharge phenomenon, the items listed below are
expressed as three models.
<Human Body Model (HBM: Discharge from a person to a device)>
A device is charged by the discharge generated when a person
charged with static electricity makes contact with the lead of
the device. Grounding the device causes a discharge current
to flow through its circuitry, resulting in electrostatic breakdown.
Device
If the external object charged with static electricity is a human
body, the amount of charge is large compared to when the
Current charged object is an insulator. Thus, the discharged energy is
extremely large.
The discharge model that, in this manner, produces discharge
from a charged human body to a semiconductor device is
called the "human body model".

<Machine Model (MM: Discharge from a metallic object or conductor to a device)>

When the statically charged object is the equipment, it is
called the "machine model". When equipment that is used
in the manufacturing process has not been grounded, even
conductors become charged.
Device When a conductor comes into contact with the external
Conductor
terminal of a semiconductor device, a current passes
Current
through the device and causes electrostatic breakdown.

<Charged Device Model (CDM: Breakdown caused by the charge of the device itself)>
Even if sufficient measures have been taken to counter
the human body model and the machine model, there is a
possibility that breakdown will occur due to the discharge of
static electricity during the production process or assembly
of semiconductor devices.
Because this is a breakdown caused by a discharge of static
electricity when the device itself has been charged, it is
Device called the "charged device model".
Current In this discharge model, the device itself becomes charged
due to friction on the surface of a semiconductor device,
and as a result, conductors such as circuits and leads cause
electrostatic induction through an external electric field.
In this state, grounding the lead will bring abrupt change to
the internal electric field and cause a discharge current to
flow, resulting in electrostatic breakdown.

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5 Basic Knowledge of Static Eliminators

The criteria for the performance expected from a static eliminator has two points:
• Time required for static elimination → Static elimination speed
• The degree to which 0 V can be achieved and maintained → Ion balance
A static eliminator that has a fast static elimination speed and good ion balance is what determines a
high-performance static eliminator.

5-1 Static Elimination Speed

Static elimination speed is an indicator of how much time it takes to lower a charged state to a
fixed voltage, and is normally expressed in seconds.

1000 "±1000 → ±100 V"

900 As seen in the expression above, it is typical to
800 measure the duration of time from the original
voltage to 1/10 voltage.
Charge amount [V]

700
600
Slow static eliminator
500
400

300
Fast static eliminator
200 SJ-H
Conventional AC method
100 Conventional DC method

0
0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9 1
Static elimination time [sec]

5-2 Ion balance

Ion balance is an indicator of how close static
5000 elimination can come to 0 V, and to what
SJ-H degree it can be maintained at 0 V.
4000 Conventional AC method
Conventional DC method Normally, this is expressed as ± nn V.
Charge amount [V]

3000

2000
Ion balance improves
as it approaches 0 V
1000

-1000
0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 3
Static elimination time [sec]

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 5-3 Static elimination capabilities and the voltage application method
Differences in the capabilities of static elimination performance are generated depending on the
method in which high-voltage is applied to electrode probes.

(1) DC Method (Direct current method)

Ion generation range
As seen in the diagram to the left,
Electrode
with a method that applies high-
probe
voltage DC, ions are generated for the
DC high-voltage amount of time that high-voltage is
power source
applied.

Ground
Pros: Produces a large amount of ions and static elimination is fast
Cons: Because only positive (+) or negative (-) ions are generated, ion balance is poor.
(The target may become oppositely charged.)

(2) AC Method (Alternating current)

Ion generation range As seen in the diagram to the left,

this is a method that applies high-
Electrode
voltage AC to the electrode probe.
probe
Normally, because it utilises
AC high-voltage commercial power sources, the ±
power source
ion production cycle is 50 or 60 Hz.

Ground

Pro: Because it alternately produces positive (+) and negative (-) ions, it has good ion balance.
Cons: Because ions are not generated in areas of ±3 kV or less, it generates a lower amount of
ions when compared to the DC method, which slows the speed of elimination.
Due to the alternating production cycle of ions and the potential for recombination of
generated ions, the operating distance must be close to the target.

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 (3) High-frequency AC method

As seen in the diagram to the

Electrode left, using a variation of the AC
probe method, a voltage element is
AC high-voltage used to apply a high-voltage of
power source ±2 kV to an electrode probe at
high frequency.

Ground
Pros: Because it generates positive (+) and negative (-) ions, ion balance is improved.
Cons: Because the applied voltage is low (±2kv) , a reduced amount of ions are generated and
static elimination is slow.
Also, dirty or worn electrode probes will reduce its ability to produce ions.
Due to the alternating production cycle of ions and the potential for recombination of
generated ions, the operating distance must be close to the target.

(4) Pulse DC Method

The advantage of the DC method
Positive (+) electrode probe
is that it continues to generate
ions while the advantage of the
Ion generation range AC method is that it alternately
Negative (-) electrode probe
generates ions. The pulse DC
Positive (+) DC Negative (-) DC
high-voltage high-voltage method uses a method of voltage
power source power source application that has incorporated
the advantages of both the DC
and AC methods.

Ground
Pros: Produces a large amount of ions and static elimination is fast.
Because it alternately produces positive (+) and negative (-) ions, it has good ion balance.
Cons: When using bar type static elimination devices, ion balance in the longitudinal direction will
be negatively affected.
Dirt or abrasions on the electrode probes will largely affect static elimination speed and ion
balance.

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 *A note of caution for the Pulse DC/DC Method when using bar type static eliminators

When using the pulse DC/DC method, the electrode probes that apply positive (+) and negative
(-) high-voltage are separate from each other. Due to this, when using a bar-type static eliminator,
only positive (+) ions or only negative (-) ions will be generated by the fixed + or - voltage electrode
probes in the longitudinal direction of the static elimination bar. Therefore, areas of opposite charge
may result on the target as seen in the diagram below.

[Pulse DC/DC method bar type static eliminator]

Positive (+) electrode probe Negative (-) electrode probe

Positive (+) area Negative (-) area Positive (+) area Negative (-) area

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 (5) Pulse AC Method

This method alternately

Electrode Ion generation range switches between applying
probe positive (+) and negative
Positive (+) DC Negative (-) DC (-) DC voltage to a single
high-voltage high-voltage electrode probe. This
power source power source
method combines the
individual advantages of the
AC method, DC method, and
pulse DC method.
Ground

Pros: Produces a large amount of ions and static elimination is fast.

Because it alternately produces positive (+) and negative (-) ions, it has good ion balance.
Cons: None in particular.

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 5-4 Operating distance and voltage application method
As mentioned before, each method of voltage application has their own set of static elimination
capabilities with individual features. However, the distances at which operation can take place
also affect each method. (These features are particularly noticeable when using a bar type static
eliminator)

(1) When used at short-distances (operating range of 300 mm or less)

The DC and pulse DC methods are unsuitable when operating a static eliminator at a distance
that is 300 mm or less from the target of static elimination.

◆ When using the DC method ◆ When using the pulse DC method

Positive (+) electrode probe Negative (-) electrode probe Positive (+) electrode probe Negative (-) electrode probe

Positive (+) area Negative (-) area Positive (+) area Negative (-) area Positive (+) area Negative (-) area Positive (+) area Negative (-) area

When using the DC or pulse DC method, the electrode probes that produce individual positive (+)
and negative (-) ions are fixed. Therefore, as seen in the diagram above, only positive (+) ions are
produced under the positive (+) electrode probes and only negative (-) ions are produced under the
negative (-) electrode probes. Due to this limitation, when used at short distances, ion balance in
the longitudinal direction of the static elimination bar is poor, making it possible for uneven static
elimination to occur on the surface of the target.

➾ The "AC method" and "Pulse AC method" are both suitable when using static eliminators at short
distances (300 mm or less)

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 ◆ Ion balance data in the longitudinal direction using the DC method (50 mm operating
distance, representative example)

Ion balance data in the longitudinal direction

(50 mm operating distance, representative example)
Ion balance [V]

Pulse AC
DC

Measurement position [mm]

◆ Ion balance data in the longitudinal direction using the pulse DC method (50 mm operating
distance, representative example)

Ion balance data in the longitudinal direction

(50 mm operating distance, representative example)
Ion balance [V]

Pulse AC
DC

Measurement position [mm]

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 (2) When used at long-distances (operating range of 300 mm or more)
The AC and high-frequency AC methods are unsuitable when operating a static eliminator at a
distance that is 300 mm or more from the target of static elimination.

◆ When using the AC method or high-frequency AC method

When using the AC method or high-

Electrode
The positive (+) and negative (-) frequency AC method, the generation
probe
ions balance each other out and cycle for positive (+) and negative
are not sent far. (-) ions is fast, and as seen in the
diagram to the left, this causes the
generated positive (+) and negative (-)
ions to recombine. Due to this, ions
cannot be sent far.
(As the generation cycle for positive
(+) and negative (-) ions becomes
faster, the probability of recombination
increases, and it becomes more
difficult for ions to be sent far.)

◆ When the generation cycle for ions is slow

When the generation cycle for

Electrode Many positive (+) and negative (-) positive (+) and negative (-) ions is
probe ions are produced at once and slow, ion recombination occurs less
are sent far. and it becomes possible to send ions
greater distances.
Pulse DC method and pulse AC method,
which are capable of changing their
ion generation cycles, are suitable
for static elimination from remote
distances.

➾ The "Pulse DC method" and "Pulse AC method" are suitable when using static eliminators at long
distances (300 mm or more).

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 (3) Summary of operating distance vs. the voltage application method
Short distance Long distance
Speed Balance Speed Balance

DC △ × △
AC/High-frequency AC × × ×
Pulse DC △ × △
Pulse AC

: Good △ : Acceptable × : Unacceptable

This chart provides a reference for ion generation method compared to the distance of operation
with regards to speed of static elimination and ion balance. Refer to this chart when selecting a static
eliminator.

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6 Using static eliminators

This chapter will explain key points for using static eliminators.

6-1 Direction of movement for ion generation

Ions that have been generated by a static eliminator are pushed out forward with the repulsive
force generated by the Coulomb force acting between the voltage of the electrode probes and the
ions of the same kind.
Once this happens, ions that have been generated by corona discharge do not emit in a disorderly
fashion, but do so following the "line of electric force".
<Ion emission: When using the SJ-H>

The initial speed that will be held by the ions is decided at this time.
As they come closer to the target of static elimination, the ions are drawn in with the attractive force
generated by the Coulomb force between the ions and the target.
<The key factors of ion kinetic force, separated by position>
Target of static elimination

Probe: Interionic force Target: Interionic force

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 What is the line of electric force?
The line of electric force is the line that, in a schematic-like manner, shows the force of electricity
emitted from a charged object. When the electric force is strong, the lines of electric force increase
in amount. (Line density increases)
Line of electric force

Positive (+) charge Negative (-) charge

High density: Strong electric force

Low density: Weak electric force

As seen in the diagram above, the location that is closest in distance has the strongest electric
force. Due to this, the number of lines for the line of electric force increases. (Line density
increases)

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 6-2 How to install static eliminators
In order to achieve the best performance for static eliminators, the first thing that must be
considered is the installation location.

(1) The influence of conductors around static eliminators

Ions near conductors When the charge amount for the target becomes
Electrode
Electrode are drawn in if the probe smaller, ions are drawn in due to electrostatic
probe conductor has undergone induction generated within the conductor, making
electrostatic induction. it impossible to complete static elimination.
Metallic
object

Target of static elimination

If there are conductors around the installation space of static eliminators, a phenomenon will occur,
in which through electrostatic induction, the surface of the conductor will be charged with a high
voltage that is opposite the polarity that is being applied to the electrode probe.
Once this happens, the ions that have been generated from the electrode probe are pulled towards
the surface of the conductor, making it impossible to supply the target of static elimination with a
sufficient amount of ions.
As a result, the following adverse effects will occur:

◆ Adverse effects when there are conductors around static eliminators:

• The amount of ions reaching the target of static elimination will be reduced, slowing the speed of
static elimination.
• The amount of ions reaching the target of static elimination will be reduced for each time that
static elimination is performed, resulting in incomplete elimination of static electricity.

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 (2) The influence of conductors around the target of static elimination

Target of static elimination:

Sheet (insulator) The static electricity of the target will, along with
the electrostatic induction of the roller, create the
appearance of neutralization. When viewed from
the upper-side of the diagram, it will seem as if
static elimination has been performed.

Conveyor roller
(Metal)

As seen in the diagram above, if there is a metal roller near or in contact with the sheet material,
"electrostatic induction" will occur within the metal roller and charges of the opposite polarity for the
charged object will gather on the surface of the metal roller.
As a result, in the vicinity of the metal roller, an electrically neutralized state will form in which the
static electricity on the surface of the sheet material combines with the charges that have gathered
through electrostatic induction. Even if ions are supplied from a static eliminator, combination
(neutralization) will not occur, making static elimination ineffective.

◆ Adverse effects when there are conductors around the target of static elimination:

• Through electrostatic induction, it will appear as if static elimination is taking place.

• Charges within the conductor that were generated by electrostatic induction and static electricity
on the target will form the appearance of a neutralized state. Therefore, ions supplied from an
ionizer will not be absorbed, and static elimination cannot be performed.

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 (3) Examples of static eliminator installations
• Film static elimination

Static electricity occurs on film through friction and separation between film and rolls. Removing
static electricity from the area of separation is effective for static elimination. The effectiveness of a
static eliminator becomes greater the closer it is presented to the area of separation.
When both sides of the film are charged with a multi-staged roller, removing static elimination from
both sides is also suggested.
• Elimination of static caused by separation

When removing static caused by separation of insulator targets from a metal surface, two methods
of static elimination can be utilised.
Performed on a charged surface, static elimination is generally effective (left diagram). However, if
just lowering the level of electrostatic charge, static elimination on the uncharged surface can be
effective as well (right diagram).
Drawn in by the static electricity of the charged surface, ions of the opposite polarity adhere to the
uncharged surface. In this case, because both electrical forces cancel each other out, it will give the
appearance that static elimination has been performed without actually affecting the external electric
field.

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 • Static elimination for plastic moulding

Spot type, installed from above Bar type, installed

from the side

Even though ejector pins are typically used during the process of moulded product ejection from a die,
static elimination does provide a benefit by eliminating the attractive forces caused by static resulting
from contact and separation from the die.
Through the supply of air, the effectiveness of static elimination is increased. However, since the
temperature of dies may be lowered by supplied air, adjusting the amount of air is required.
When preventing dust or debris adhesion after ejection, a bar type is used to perform static elimination
for both the target and accumulation area.

• Static elimination during printing

Paper feed section Printing section

Paper ejection section

Because both the separation surface and contact surface are important, find a location that best allows
static elimination to be applied in both areas.
Also, because the surface behind the paper is frequently metal, it would be beneficial to find a location that
best allows for static elimination in areas that are least influenced by metal.

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 • Static elimination for a parts feeder

Though static eliminator ions must come between the parts and bowl section, depending on the
size of the parts, the air from the static eliminator may cause the ions to be pushed to the bowl. Both
the blower type and the spot type can have particular advantages depending on the application. By
combining both methods, the best static elimination results may be achieved.

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 6-3 Ion generation frequency
When installing a static eliminator that will generate positive (+) and negative (-) ions, it is
necessary to set the ion generation cycle according to the operating distance.
Recommended ion generation cycles according to operating distance are listed as an example
below.
(When using the KEYENCE SJ-H Series)

Static Elimination Speed Installation space Operating distance (mm) Recommended frequency (Hz)

High-speed Production line for film and sheets

50 to 300 68, 47, 33, 22
(Short distance)

Clean bench, etc.

300 to 1000 10, 8, 5
(Medium distance)

When mounted from the ceiling in

1000 to 2000 3, 1
Low-speed clean rooms, etc. (Long distance)

6-4 Using the air purge function

When installed at a remote operating distance, the speed of normal static elimination is reduced.
By changing the frequency setting, it is possible to increase the speed of static elimination, but
there are limits.
The use of "air purging" is a technique that exists as a method to further improve static elimination
speed and ion balance when operating at a remote distance. Air purging is a function that supplies
compressed air from a hole near the electrode probe.
Through the flow of air purging, ions can be emitted quickly to far distances. In other words, the
speed of static elimination is increased. Also, because the frequency can be adjusted to a state of
higher frequency, ion balance improves as well. Furthermore, there are static eliminators that use
the air purge function to prevent the adhesion of foreign material to the probe tips.
<The effectiveness of air purging: When using the SJ-H>

For ion acceleration

For preventing the adhesion

of foreign material
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 6-5 How to operate static eliminators (The importance of maintenance)
Regarding the operation of static eliminators, one point that is equally as important as installation
location is "static eliminator maintenance".
Here, we will explain the necessity and effect of maintenance for static eliminators.

(1) The importance of maintenance

Over time, static elimination performance will deteriorate.
Static elimination speed ➾ Becomes slower
Ion balance ➾ shifts from "0 V"
Below, are two factors that cause the deterioration of static elimination.
1. Wear of the electrode probes (Causes long-term deterioration)
2. Dirt on the electrode probes (Causes short-term deterioration)
The deterioration of static elimination performance as a result of the factors above is an event that
occurs regardless of static eliminator type. For this reason, maintenance is required to maintain the
performance of static elimination.

(2) Wear of the electrode probes (Causes long-term deterioration)

1. The condition of an electrode probe when continually operated for an extended period of time

■ An enlarged photo of a probe tip after continuous operation for 1 year

Negative (-) electrode probe Positive (+) electrode probe

Point 1: The tip of the electrode probe is worn down

Point 2: The degree of wear differs for positive (+) and negative (-) electrode probes

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 2. Deterioration of static elimination performance caused by wear of the electrode probe

The electrode probe is worn Wearing down the electrode probe weakens
the strength of the electric field on the tip of the
→ electrode probe.
The strength of the electric field on the This makes it difficult to generate a corona
tip of the electrode probe is reduced discharge. Difficulty in generating a corona
discharge means that the ion production level
→

will drop, thus slowing static elimination speed.

Corona discharge weakens Also, as seen in the photos for the previous
item, the amount of wear for the positive (+) and
→

negative (-) electrode probes will differ, and as

The amount of ions generated is a result, the amount of ions produced will also
lowered differ. Through this, ion balance will become
worse.

3. Differences in the amount of wear

Corona discharge itself is a contributing factor that causes differences in the amount of wear for
positive (+) and negative (-) electrode probes.
◆ The condition of an electrode probe when generating positive (+) ions

Molecule As seen in the diagrams on the left, when

Ionization
The electrons that have been taken in flow
towards the earth connection
The molecule itself becomes charged, then
is drawn to and collides with the probe tip
positive (+) high voltage is applied to an
electrode, it produces a phenomenon in which
electrons are stripped away from certain
molecules around the probe tip.
By doing this, the molecules that have had an
electron stripped away, become positively (+)
charged, making them positive (+) ions.
Also, when positive (+) ions are generated, it
produces a phenomenon in which the electrons
that were stripped away from the molecules
are directly taken into the electrode probe. This
creates a chain reaction where the electrons that
were stripped away will also collide into other
molecules, charging the molecules negatively
(-). These molecules are then attracted to the
electrode tip as well.

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 ◆ The condition of an electrode probe when generating negative (-) ions

Molecule As seen in the diagrams on the left, when

The electrons that have been supplied
from the ground are emitted from the tip
of the electrode probe
negative (-) high voltage is applied to an
electrode, it produces a phenomenon in which
electrons are emitted from the probe tip.
At this time, the emitted electrons collide with
certain molecules around the probe tip and
charge those molecules negatively (-), making
them negative (-) ions.
Ionization
Additionally, the electrons that are emitted from
the probe tips are supplied from the ground and
flow from the earth to the electrode probe.

The electrons that were released from

the probe tip collide with the molecules
and charge them negatively

◆ Points to consider when generating ions:

• When generating positive (+) ions, electrons and charged molecules will collide with the electrode probe.
• When generating negative (-) ions, electrons will be emitted from the tip of the electrode probe only.

As listed above, differences in the phenomena occurring on the tip of the electrode probe when
generating a corona discharge result in differing amounts of wear for the electrode probe.
In addition to degrading the static elimination speed, this will also lead to the deterioration of ion
balance.

<Changes in ion balance due to electrode probe wear>

Because the amount of positive (+) ions generated will be less than the amount of negative (-) ions
generated, the ion balance will shift to the negative side.

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 4. Voltage application method and the influence of electrode probe wear
Regarding the wear on the tip of an electrode probe, the amount of wear differs for positive (+) and
negative (-) probes, therefore producing a difference in the amount of positive (+) and negative (-)
ions generated.
From this, we can surmise that static eliminator types utilizing the DC and pulse DC methods,
which have separate positive (+) and negative (-) electrode probes, are largely influenced by wear.

Static elimination performance sustaining ability against wear,

separated by voltage application method
DC Pulse DC AC Pulse AC

× × △ △

5. Solutions for electrode probe wear

Electrode probe wear is a phenomenon that is caused by corona discharge. Therefore, the only
solution for this is to replace the electrode probe.
A rough guide to the lifespan of an electrode probe, which differs depending on the material of the
probe, is as listed below.

Wear of the electrode probe

Tungsten probes: 2 years
Silicon probes: 2 years
Titanium probes: 2 years
Stainless steel probes: 1 year
Periodic replacement

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 (3) Dirt on the electrode probes (Causes short-term deterioration)
1. The condition of an electrode probe when continually operated for a short period of time
■ An enlarged photo of a probe tip when it has been continuously operated for 1 week in a general office
environment

Negative (-) electrode probe Positive (+) electrode probe

Point 1: Dirt adheres to the tip of the electrode probe

Point 2: The way in which it becomes dirty differs for positive (+) and negative (-) electrode probes

2. Deterioration of static elimination performance caused by dirt on the electrode probe

Foreign material adheres to the electrode probe Dirt on the electrode probe weakens the
strength of the electric field on the tip of the
→

electrode probe.
The strength of the electric field on the tip of the This makes it difficult to generate a corona
discharge. Difficulty in generating a corona
electrode probe is reduced discharge means that the amount of ions
→

that are produced will drop, thus slowing

static elimination speed.
Corona discharge weakens Also, as seen in the photo above, the way
→

in which it becomes dirty differs for positive

(+) and negative (-) electrode probes, so
The amount of ions generated is lowered the ion balance will deteriorate.

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 3. Factors that cause dirt on electrode probes

• Physical factors Physical factors

Adhesion through electrical
attraction Physical factors

• Chemical factors
Oxidation reaction through
high energy
ex.) Silicon oxide
Chemical factors

■ Physical factors
Particles floating in the atmosphere become charged, and through this, are drawn to and adhere to
the tip of an electrode probe.

■ Chemical factors
When ions are generated from a corona discharge, the atmosphere around the electrode probe is
electrically broken down. When this happens, the siloxane (silicone type material) that exists in the
atmosphere as a gas is oxidized, which then collects and adheres on the tip of the electrode probe
as silicon oxide.

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 4. Differences in how the probe becomes dirty
Corona discharge itself is a contributing factor that causes the electrode probe to become dirty in
different ways on positive (+) and negative (-) electrode probes.

◆ When generating positive (+) ions ◆ When generating negative (-) ions

Because there is no
Emitted through collision collision, crystals form

When positive (+) ions are generated, electrons and negatively (-) charged molecules collide with
the tip of the electrode probe, shaving off foreign material that is attached to the tip of the electrode
probe. As a result, the amount of adhesion is reduced.
When negative (-) ions are generated, electrons are emitted from the tip of the electrode probe.
When this occurs, foreign material forms in the direction of emission. As a result, the amount of
adhesion increases.
As listed above, in a manner that is similar to when wear occurs, the phenomenon that is produced
differs between the tip of a positive (+) or negative (-) electrode probe, resulting in differing amounts
of dirt on the probe.
In addition to degrading the static elimination speed, this will also lead to the deterioration of ion
balance.

<Changes in ion balance due to dirt on the electrode probe>

Because the amount of negative (-) ions generated will be less than the amount of positive (+) ions
generated, the ion balance will shift to the positive side.

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 5. Effects caused by dirt (Representative example data)
◆ Change in ion amount caused by dirt on the electrode probe

Change of ion amount over time (Representative example)

Negative (-) ions

Ion generation amount [%]

Positive (+) ions

Time elapsed [h]

◆ Effects caused by dirt on the electrode probe, separated by voltage application system

Change of ion balance over time (Representative example)

Pulse AC

DC

Pulse DC
Ion balance [V]

Time [days]

6. Solutions for dirt on the electrode probe

Dirt on the electrode probe is a phenomenon that is caused by corona discharge. Therefore, the
only solution for this is to periodically clean the tip of the electrode probe.
As a rough guide for cleaning the electrode probe, when operated in a general office environment
for a duration of 24 hours, the probes should be cleaned approximately once every two weeks.

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 (4) Points to consider for static elimination operation

1. Electrode probe wear ➾ Periodic replacement

Tungsten probes: 2 years
Silicon probes: 2 years
Stainless steel probes: 1 year

2. Dirt on the electrode probe ➾ Periodic cleaning

When operated in a general office
environment for a duration of 24 hours,
electrode probes should be cleaned
approximately once every two weeks.

3. The effect of deterioration in performance differs depending

on the method of voltage application
DC Pulse DC AC Pulse AC

Wear × × △ △
Dirt × × △ △

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7 KEYENCE Static Eliminators (An introduction to the latest technology)

7-1 I. R. G. Structure
When using corona discharge static elimination devices, a grounding electrode (GND plate)
is required to generate ions. For that reason, a regular grounding electrode is located near
the electrode probe. Without the existence of a grounding electrode, ion generation cannot be
performed. The shorter the distance between the electrode probe and grounding electrode,
the stronger the electric field becomes, which increases the amount of ions. However, when a
grounding electrode is near the electrode probe, one drawback is that a large portion of the ions
that are generated will be absorbed by the grounding electrode.

<Destination of generated ions: Conventional methods> <Destination of generated ions: I. R. G. structure>

Ion

Grounding
electrode
(GND plate)

The I. R. G. (Insert Ring Ground) structure (SJ-H Series only) incorporates the conventionally
external grounding electrode into the body of the static eliminator. As a result, all the generated ions
go towards the direction of the static elimination target without being absorbed by the grounding
electrode, thus increasing the amount of usable ions by a remarkable 2x.

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 7-2 I. C. C. Method (Ion Current Control)
In order to thoroughly ensure the static elimination performance needed for static eliminators,
KEYENCE has created "I. C. C. method". This is a KEYENCE original feedback control circuit
available on all of the KEYENCE SJ Series. Additionally, the SJ-H is equipped with a further
advanced "Dual I. C. C." circuit.

(1) A brief overview of I. C. C. method operations

■ When there is no charged object ■ When there is a charged object

Target of static elimination

Negatively (–) charged

When there is no charged object, the duration
of high-voltage application a controlled so
that positive (+) and negative (–) ions are
emitted evenly.
object
When there is a charged object, the duration of
high-voltage generation and the voltage value
is controlled to increase the generation amount
for ions that are opposite of the charged object.
+ Duty cycle increased

Changing negative (-) ion generation voltage

Normal operation Normal operation When object with negative
(-) charge approaches

Keeps the ion balance well Eliminates the static electricity quickly

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 (2) The principles of Dual l. C. C. method

1. Diagram of the internal structure for the SJ-H Series

As seen in the left diagram, the SJ-H Series has
a circuit that detects the ion generation amount,
built into the ground connection.

Positive (+) Negative (-)

high-voltage
Electrode
high-voltage
power source power source probe

Ground connection
current detection
circuit

2. The condition of ion generation around the electrode probe

As seen in the left diagram, all the ions generated

from the probe tip are propelled toward the target.

Insert GND

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 3. Detecting the amount of ions arriving at the target
When ions are emitted from the electrode probe,
a flow of current (ionic current) is created that is
equal to the amount of ions emitted to the ground
connection.
The generated ions are all emitted towards the
target, thus making it possible to detect the
actual amount of ions that can be used for static
Positive (+) Negative (-) elimination.
high-voltage high-voltage
power source power source

Ionic current Current flows according to

detection circuit the amount of positive (+)
and negative (-) ions

4. Automatic control of ion balance

The best ion balance condition is one in which an
equal amount of positive (+) and negative (-) ions
are supplied to the target.
As discussed, the KEYENCE SJ-H Series detects
the amount of ions arriving at the target. Because
of this, the duration of voltage application and the
value of applied voltage are controlled so that the
Positive (+) Negative (-) detected amount of ionic current is equal (absolute
high-voltage high-voltage value) when positive (+) high-voltage has been
power source power source
applied and when negative (-) high-voltage has
been applied. Thus producing a mechanism that
automatically makes adjustments to create the best
Ionic current Best condition
ion balance for the target.
detection circuit Positive (+) ion amount =
a negative (-) ion amount

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 5. The mechanism of charge amount detection
When there is a positively (+) charged object The ion generation mechanism that is in

Positive (+) charged object

accordance with the target is shown in the
diagram on the left. When there is a charged
target, even if the same voltage is applied,
the amount of ions will change due to the
Suppressed the generation
of positive (+) ions influence of the electric field from the target.
Increases the generation Changing the amount of ions that are
of negative (-) ions
Positive (+) Negative (-)
generated means that at the same time,
high-voltage high-voltage the ionic current will also change, creating
power source power source differences in the ionic current. As a result,
the charge amount and polarity for the
Ionic current is reduced when positive (+) charged object are detected from these
Ionic current
detection circuit
ions are generated differences.
Ionic current is increased when negative
(-) ions are generated

(3) The benefits of Dual I. C. C.

1. Can change the duration of ion generation and applied

voltage value according to the charged object, achieving
high-speed static elimination.
2. Achieves automatic adjustment for actual ion balance.
3. Achieves actual probe dirt detection and ion balance
maintenance.

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 7-3 Sheath air guide structure
In addition to Dual I. C. C., the latest static elimination bars from the SJ-H Series have adopted the
newly-designed sheath air guide structure.

(1) What is the sheath air guide structure?

■ An SJ-H Series electrode probe
Enlarged view of Air is forced to envelop the electrode probe and is then pushed forward. As a result,
the electrode probe it is effective in protection against the adhesion of foreign material to the probe tip.
The air flows through an orifice inside the probe cap, is stopped in a chamber, then
passes through a long channel to generate an incredibly uniform laminar flow.
Furthermore, the concaved structure at the air outlet blocks external disturbance,
thus demonstrating an excellent sheath effect.

■ An electrode probe for a general static eliminator

Enlarged view of
the electrode probe The supplied air is pushed forward without touching the probe tip. As a result, static
elimination performance improves but this is not effective in preventing the adhesion of
dust to the probe tip.

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 (2) The effectiveness of the sheath air guide structure
1. Probe tip conditions
The condition of an electrode probe tip when operated for 24 hours over a period of 2.5 months

SJ-H Series Conventional model

Photo of a SJ-H probe tip (150x) Image of a probe tip for a conventional model
(150x)

* Test environment: General office environment

2. Change of static elimination time over time

Change of static elimination time over time (representative example)

3.0
KEYENCE SJ-H
2.8 KEYENCE SJ-G
2.6
Static elimination time (sec)

2.4

2.2

2.0

1.8

1.6

1.4

1.2

1.0 No change
0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 for over two
Time required for static elimination from ±1000 V to ±100 V months
150 mm x 150 mm plate monitor (20 pF) is used.
Air supply: 0.1 MPa, Down flow: 0.3 m/s

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 (3) The difference between the sheath air guide (laminar flow system) and the C. A. B. (Clean Air Barrier)
structure (jet flow system)
The C. A. B. structure was developed by KEYENCE to improve the speed of static elimination and
raise the sustaining ability of static elimination performance. This structure emits air that covers the
probe tip after it has been focused at the outlet. This air flow is called a jet flow system. (See the
diagram below).

■ A jet flow system (CAB structure) electrode probe

Enlarged view of
the electrode probe
Air is forced to envelop the electrode probe and is then pushed forward,
reducing the adhesion of dust to the probe tip. Because the air is focused
near the outlet, jet flow is generated.

When the air is focused at the outlet, the air flow becomes faster and generates turbulent flow.
When using a jet flow system, there are less changes over time compared to general types but
because it generates turbulent flow, there is a risk that material that adheres to the probe tip will be
spread at the microscopic level before crystallization.
With the sheath air guide structure, the air that covers the probe tip is emitted and kept as laminar
flow without being focused at the outlet. This air flow is called a laminar flow system.
Not only does this severely limit adhered material on the electrode probe, it also greatly reduces
the possibility of spreading material that adheres to the probe tip at the microscopic level before
crystallization.

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(3) The benefits of the sheath air guide structure

1. Can prevent dirt on the electrode probes, thus dramatically reducing the
deterioration of static elimination performance over time.
➾C
 apable of operating for long periods while
maintaining high-performance.
2. It envelops the probe tips with a uniform laminar flow, thus reducing the
adhesion of objects to the probe tips.

◆ Reference material (Sheath air guide structure details)

Concaved
structure Laminar air flow
The supplied air enters from the primary
or ifice, passes through the pr imar y
chamber and secondar y orifice, then
finally, while following the wall surface of
the tertiary chamber turns into extremely
uniform laminar air flow. Also, the convex
structure of the tip makes it difficult for
Tertiary turbulence to affect sheath air.
chamber

Tertiary orifice X 4 Orifice: Controls flow

Secondary chamber ➾ Controls fluctuation in flow in
Secondary orifice X 1
regard to fluctuation in pressure
Chamber: a small enclosed space
First chamber ➾ Stops input air and equalizes pressure
Primary orifice X 1

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 7-4 Alarm outputs
(1) Self-diagnostic function and alarm output
1. Ion level monitor and ion level alarm output
Constantly checks the amount of ions generated from the
Normal ion level
static elimination bar and performs a self-diagnosis for
lowered ion generation amounts.
Along with indicating ion generation amount with the bar Positive (+) ion level is low
(Ex.: Positive (+) ions reduced)
LED, it can also output an alarm output below a fixed level,
thus making it possible to monitor for the effects of dirt on
the electrode probe before problems occur.

2. Condition alarm output

Externally outputs an alarm when static elimination cannot be adequately performed due to
installation conditions and other such factors.

(2) Abnormal discharge detection circuit

Ensures safe operation by stopping ion generation after detecting

abnormal discharge caused by a conductor coming close to the electrode
probe.
When abnormal discharge
is detected, the alarm LED will
flash and an alarm will be output.
While this happens, the high-voltage
power supply is turned off and ion
generation is stopped.

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 SAFETY INFORMATION
Please visit: www.keyence.com Please read the instruction manual carefully in
order to safely operate any KEYENCE product.

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The information in this publication is based on KEYENCE’s internal research/evaluation at the time of release and is subject to change without notice. WW11-1037
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