Build-up of static charges on non conductive objects can create enormous adhesion forces. These forces cause materials to stick together or repel each other at locations in a production process creating disruptions.

Examples of sticking together:

• A plastic film sticks to the idle roller causing disruption in the web tension and web guidance.
• Small punched parts stick together
• Sheets on a stack stick causing feeding of multiple sheets
• Plastic film wound on a roll sticks to the roll when trying to unwind
• Bags do not open because the layers are stuck together

Examples of repelling

• Yarns for textile travel alongside at very small spacing. Repelling causes irregular spacing
• Small injection moulded parts jump out of the box
• Sheets float on a stack
• Film on a roll during winding is telescoping

Placing anti-static devices at strategic positions in the process will help to reduce the static charge and eliminate the problem. Depending on the process various anti-static devices are available for flat surfaces, objects, low speed, high speed and with additional air support.