6
ESD Grounding
HARDWARE KIT HWR 122
Note: do not use power tools for installation of ground cords
.
Step 1:
For ESD work surfaces and instrument shelves to dissipate static electricity they require the connection of a
ground cord to an earth ground. IAC install grounding studs on each rear corner of all ESD work surfaces and
instrument shelves as well as insulation strips between work surface and riser boxes. Thread the 1/4-20 coupler
nut onto one of these ground studs and tighten it being careful not to over tighten. Over tightening this coupler nut
can cause damage to the connection between the ground stud and the laminate. Place the eyelet of the ground
cord (or cords if you are also grounding an instrument shelf to the same ground stud) over the 1/4-20 x 1/2" bolt
and thread the bolt into the coupler nut. The alligator clip must attach to an earth ground.
ESD Laminate Testing:
Although IAC conducts connectivity and surface resistance tests at the factory on all ESD work surfaces and
instrument shelves, IAC recommends that customers conduct their own tests on all ESD work surfaces and
instrument shelves to ensure that the ground cord installation has been completed correctly and that the ESD
material is working properly.
Cleaning ESD Materials:
ESD laminates are designed to resist abrasion, scuffing, scorching, and most solvents. Intense exposure to
any of these conditions can damage the ESD properties of the laminate and will require the replacement of
the work surface or instrument shelf. ESD laminate work surfaces and instrument shelves are cleaned much
the same as non-ESD laminated surfaces with a damp cloth and light soapy cleanser. A mild chemical
cleaner can also be used as long as the laminate is not exposed to the chemical for long periods of time.
Stains can be removed with a two-minute exposure to a 5% hypo chloride bleach solution immediately
followed by a light soapy cleanser.
ESD Ground Precautions:
1)
Connect each workbench work surface individually to the earth ground.
2)
The green wire in a standard wall duplex can be used if it has been absolutely determined that it is
attached to an earth ground.
3)
Do not use power tools to install grounding hardware and components.
4)
If benches are relocated IAC recommends the ground cords connections be re-tested.
5)
Never use abrasive pads or cleansers to clean ESD surfaces.
6)
Never wax ESD surfaces and avoid cleaners with wax-based properties.
7)
Test ESD work surfaces and instrument shelves frequently to ensure it is working properly.
