When Sparks Fly; Tackling Static Electricity Issues

What is static electricity?

Before we continue, let’s get an idea of what static electricity is and what causes it. So, we’ve heard the term a million times, but what is it exactly? Static is a stationary electric charge built up on insulating, non-conductive material and is caused by an imbalance of charges between two materials. We see static electricity during storms when there is lightning, we see it when the hair on our heads sticks up in the air, and, when we are unlucky; we see it when we are working with folding machinery.

Static build-up frequently occurs during folding processes, as paper continually and rapidly gets fed through the machine. Over time, especially in times where heat is high or humidity is low, static begins to build up from the constant friction and/or physical contact between the paper and the metal machine.

Why is static electricity bad?

Now let’s address the issue of why and how static electricity negatively affects bindery productivity, specifically when dealing with folding machines. There are three main problem areas in regards to static electricity; feeding, folding, and delivery.

When paper is being fed through the machine, the static build-up can occur which will cause sheets of paper to cling together so more than one piece of paper gets fed through at a time.

In terms of specific folding processes, static can also be built up within fold rollers. Static electricity prevents the paper from fully reaching the deflector on the back of the fold plate, resulting in short folds and other pesky problems.

Lastly, concerns with delivery can occur. Uneven and/or product clinging can occur along with the additional annoyance of static shocks to your fingers when touching the folder. Those who have experience with these issues know the frustration, as they slow production and decrease profit on your job.

What we have for you!

Fortunately, Update Ltd offers you preventative and guaranteed solutions for your static electricity problems! Our most versatile and recommended static elimination products are the Static Elimination Bars: Model 400T and Model 915 (which require a power supply). These bars reduce either positive or negative charges between materials eliminating static electricity. Sizing and installation are simple and easy and can be handled without outside assistance.

Update Ltd also offers you Slik Spray (which comes in 16oz or 1 gallon), an environmentally safe, microscopic anti-static treatment that reduces static build-up and takes friction to a near-zero level. Not only does it aid your static reduction needs, but it also eases the process with its promise of no sticky residue or buildup left behind and its simplicity of use.

Additional features with the use of Slik Spray; you are able to reduce friction on paper cutter beds, cut down drag on folding operations, clean and reduce the adhesion of most glues on knives, and repel paper dust and ink on impression and transfer cylinders on presses. However, above all, you will successfully eliminate static electricity on your products, ensuring its maximum level of productivity for yielding the best results.

On top of the static elimination bars and Slik Spray, Update Ltd carries various other static reducing products such as tinsel, static string and more. Contact Update Ltd now to receive more information on our static reducing products. To learn more about our products, visit our website www.updateltd.com.