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How does TAKK Anti-Static Tinsel work?
TAKK Anti-Static Tinsel, also known as garland, works in two ways.The most frequently used method is called the “induction” or self-energizing principle. In this method the tinsel is positioned in close proximity, about 1/8” or 1/4”, to the moving static laden equipment or affected product. The tinsel must be placed across and above the targeted surface and firmly connected to grounded metal of the equipment. The sharp points of the tinsel strands interact with the static field on the targeted surface, creating an ion flow of both positive and negative ions from the strand tips. This forms a static neutralizing cloud that envelops the targeted area, eliminating both positive and negative static electric charges from the targeted product or machine surface. The effect of the neutralizing cloud is not unlike that created by more expensive static elimination/ionizer tools. The “inductive” method works at its best at higher static charges and actually functions more efficiently at these higher levels. A second method may be used at slower production machine speeds (below 150 feet per minute), and involves placement of the tinsel in direct contact with the target area. In this method, the tinsel acts as a “grounding” device, bleeding the static from the product surface. Tinsel has a minimum static threshold normally considered about 2000 volts. Below this threshold tinsel typically becomes ineffective. However, most static problems related to static charges do not show up at the threshold level.
Can TAKK Anti-Static Tinsel be used in addition to other static eliminators?
Using tinsel in conjunction with other static eliminators is a cost effective way of controlling static throughout a machine process. Electronic static eliminators can be positioned where optimum elimination is required, or areas where tinsel cannot be mounted properly. Tinsel can be used inexpensively at other locations to keep a positive control of static throughout the process.
How long does TAKK Anti-Static Tinsel last?
Longevity depends on the operating conditions. Once the tinsel becomes matted/crumpled, heavily oxidized, or badly contaminated by dust, inks, or other particulates its effectiveness decreases or ceases and should be replaced.
Can I mount TAKK Anti-Static Tinsel in contact with my product?
The copper strands of tinsel are relatively soft as a result of their small dimensions. It has been our experience that tinsel can come in direct contact with most all plastics, papers, foils, etc without any negative consequences. Exceptions would be materials like photographic film. When in doubt we recommend testing the tinsel with the material.
Does TAKK Anti-Static Tinsel have to be grounded?
Tinsel needs to be grounded in order to effectively work. This is normally accomplished by securing the tinsel to a grounded part of the machine frame. TAKK Tinsel attachment Kit 5023 can be used. Alternatively, a ground wire can be run from the tinsel to a known electrical/earth ground.
How do you install TAKK Anti-Static Tinsel?
Tinsel can be mounted above or below a moving web or conveyor. It can be more effective to do both. Using the “inductive method” pull the tinsel taunt across the web or conveyor maintaining a gap of1/8” to 1/4” gap between the tinsel and the static laden surface, attaching the tinsel to the machine frame. When using the grounding method the tinsel can be draped across the surface to be neutralized or positioned so that it is slightly grazing the surface. A general rule is to always position tinsel just prior to where the static is creating a problem.
Is TAKK Anti-Static Tinsel effective on very high static charges?
Actually the higher the static charge the more effective tinsel becomes. Tinsel very effectively reduces high static levels to moderate levels. The performance is reduced the closer the static charge get to the “threshold level” of 2000 volts.
Is TAKK Anti-Static Tinsel the same as Christmas tree Tinsel?
TAKK Anti-Static Tinsel is made completely of highly conductive copper. Christmas Tinsel or garland is made of non-conductive coated plastics which actually will act as a static charge generator.
Does TAKK Anti-Static Tinsel pose any hazard to operators?
TAKK Anti-Static Tinsel is made of 100% copper and presents no hazards.
What if TAKK Anti-Static Tinsel is not appropriate for my application?
In applications where tinsel either cannot be mounted properly, a more aggressive static control device is needed, or you are looking for a more permanent installation. Another TAKK Static Eliminator product may be appropriate. TAKK offers a full line of static control products including other passive devices such as Conductive Brushes, Anti-Static Cord and Bars…plus Electronic Static Eliminators Bars & Blowers. Click Here for more information on these products or contact a TAKK application specialist.
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