Maintenance of Ionizing Air Gun/Nozzle

As with all ionizers, periodic maintenance will be needed to provide optimum performance. The frequency of monitoring ionizers really depends on how and where they are used. KG recommends checking ionizers every 6 months, but this may not be suitable for many programs particularly since an out of-balance may exist for months before it is checked again. ANSI/ESD S20.20 paragraph 6.1.3.1 Compliance

Verification Plan Requirement states: "Test equipment shall be selected to make measurements of appropriate properties of the technical requirements that are incorporated into the ESD program plan” And paragraph 6.1.3.2. Compliance Verification Plan Guidance states: "In addition to internal audits, external audits (Organization and supplier of ESDS items) should be performed to ensure the unit, a locking screw is provided on the back of the unit to compliance with planned requirements. Verifications should include routine checks of the Technical Requirements in the Plan. The frequency of verification checks should be based on the control item usage, its durability and associated risk of failure.” Under normal conditions, the ionizer will attract dirt and dust (especially on the emitter electrodes). To maintain optimum performance, cleaning must be performed on a regular basis.

The electrodes should be cleaned at least every six months. However, more frequent cleaning may be required if used in environments with more contaminants. These units need very little maintenance. In order to maintain the optimum performance of your unit, the following maintenance procedures must be performed on a regular basis. Make sure that the air supply is clean and free of contamination and moisture.

Drain compressor tank and filters periodically. The filters may require draining several times daily, depending on your compressed air system.

 

Ø        Neutralization Efficiency (Decay Time)

The comparative neutralization efficiency of ionizers is determined by a standard test published by the ESD Association Standard 3.1.

Ø        Testing and Calibration

Ionizers are tested and calibrated using a charged plate analyzer ME268A and the procedure outlined in ESD Association's Standard 3.1. This standard can be obtained directly from the ESD Association, 7902 Turin Road, Suite 4, Rome, NY 13440-2069, (315) 339-6937.