As electronics are becoming more utilized in today’s world, the need for protection from static electricity charges becomes increasingly vital. For those of us that utilize electronics often, such as our phones and laptops, we know that exposure to static electricity charges can be very harmful to these items. These charges could cause junction breakdown, melted metal, or even oxide failure.
How Do We Protect Electronic Devices From Static Electricity?
In order to prevent damage to electronic devices while being shipped, transported, or stored, businesses and government agencies utilize special protective packaging materials. More specifically, they turn to anti-static and static shielding bags. The goal of these materials is to safely shield electronic devices from static discharges, as well as prevent static charges from entering potentially hazardous areas.
What Is the Faraday Cage Effect?
In order to fully protect electronic devices from static electricity charges, anti-static bags utilize a scientific phenomenon called the Faraday Cage Effect.
In a nutshell, a faraday cage effect creates a shield around the protected item by distributing the electromagnetic radiation on the exterior of the cage. By doing so, it cancels out electric charges or radiation within the cage’s interior.
How Was the Faraday Cage Effect Discovered?
The faraday cage effect has saved the life of many different electronics, but when and how was it discovered?
Michael Faraday was an English scientist who focused on the study of electromagnetism and electrochemistry. During his studies, he discovered that static electricity charge only resided on the exterior of a charged conductor. He then realized that the charged exterior had no impact on the interior of the product. In 1836, Michael Faraday exhibited his discovery by building a room coated with metal foil. An electrostatic generator then struck the outside of the room with high-voltage discharges. He then used an electroscope to prove to the viewers that there was no excess electric charge on the inside of the room’s walls.
Thanks to Michael Faraday, we have used this faraday cage effect to make products such as anti-static bags. Anti-static bags are used to protect missiles, explosives, electro-sensitive devices, microcircuits, and more.
Looking for a Cost-Effective Method for Protecting Electronics?
At Edco Supply Corporation, we have anti-static bags in standard sizes for immediate delivery; we can also manufacture custom-sized anti-static bags up to 50” and 200”. If you’re ready for the best protection from static electricity available, browse our anti-static protective packaging and reach out to our team with any questions!
