Whether you’re working in electronic assembly, quality control and inspection, product testing, or beyond, the benefits of using an ESD turntable aren’t to be underestimated. As some readers will know, ESD is short for Electrostatic Discharge.
Turntables that use this tech are simple yet powerful tools designed to allow you to handle electronic components with care while reducing the risk from static electricity.
Here, we’ll cover the basics of how this equipment works. We’ll also break down the key advantages of using an ESD turntable, from reducing damage risks to improving workplace safety and compliance.
How Does an ESD Turntable Work?
Before we look at the benefits of using an ESD turntable, let’s cover the basics of how they work.
The surface of the turntable is critical to its effectiveness. It’s engineered with conductive materials that dissipate static electricity safely to the ground. This means any static created by friction while handling electrical components is quickly neutralised.
Grounding is equally crucial, and most ESD turntables are connected to the ground via a wire or cable, ensuring any static charge is safely discharged away from sensitive components.
Many ESD turntables also use special, lubricated bearings to ensure smooth and easy rotations, as well as a lock feature to keep the platform stable. This allows technicians to place electronic parts on the turntable and easily rotate them to access different sides without touching them.
What Are the Advantages of Using an ESD Turntable?
Enhanced Productivity
ESD turntables are indispensable tools for optimising manufacturing and assembly processes. This is especially true of industries where precision and efficiency are paramount, like electronics manufacturing.
As touched on above, ESD turntables provide a stable and easily rotatable platform, easing the process of carrying out intricate work on electrical components.
An example of this is in the assembly of complex printed circuit boards (PCBS).
With an ESD turntable, technicians can seamlessly rotate the PCB to access different soldering points or inspect components without the need for frequent repositioning. This is an excellent way that an ESD turntable can improve productivity by accelerating production cycles while minimising downtime.
Reduced Risk of Damage
Many aspects of the electronics industry rely on delicate electronic components brought together through an intricate assembly process. ESD turntables play a crucial role in protecting these components against ESD damage, which can result in expensive damage.
By incorporating static-safe materials and construction, such as conductive rubber surfaces or stainless steel, ESD turntables dissipate static charges. This reduces the chances of ESD-related failures during handling and assembly.
Improved Ergonomics and Workplace Safety
We believe that employee well-being and workplace safety should be of paramount importance for businesses across all industries. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE): “As an employer, you must protect your workers from the risk of injury and ill health from hazardous manual handling tasks in the workplace.”
The management of potential Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) is also covered by HSE, with regulations stipulating that employers must “manage the risk of MSDs in your workplace,” with repetitive work and awkward postures forming a key component of this.
ESD turntables can help to mitigate this risk.
One of the great advantages of using an ESD turntable is that it can eliminate the need for workers to lift and manoeuvre heavy or awkward assemblies manually. The flexibility and adaptability offered by ESD turntables also mean that technicians are better able to retain a safe and healthy posture at work and are less likely to have to operate in an awkward or uncomfortable position.
Regulatory Compliance
Perhaps the most crucial benefit of using an ESD turntable is that it ensures your workplace is meeting the necessary regulatory standards. They’re designed and manufactured to meet rigorous industry standards like the BS EN 61340-5-1. This international standard focuses on protecting electronic devices from electrostatic phenomena. It applies to all activities from manufacturing through to assembly, packaging, distribution, and beyond.
It’s vital for all manufacturers, service providers, designers, and anyone else involved in the assembly and use of electronic components. By utilising an ESD turntable, you can ensure that your processes are compliant with this regulation.
Are You Looking for Industry Leading ESD Support?
The GYRO-STAT® Turntable
If you’re seeking top-tier ESD support, this innovative product can help. The GYRO-STAT® offers a sleek design with powerful features. Measuring 390mm in diameter and a mere 14mm in thickness, its stainless-steel build is resistant to corrosion.
Capable of holding up to 100kg in weight, it ensures durability and safety. With high-quality, conductive lubricated bearings, it guarantees smooth rotation. These work in cohesion with a lockable feature with three thumbscrews, allowing secure positioning for efficient work.
Meeting BS EN 61340-5-1 standards, it connects to the ground through an ESD workbench laminate or mat. Choose between blue dissipative or natural stainless-steel matting to suit your needs.
Want to Find Out More About Our ESD Products?
In addition to the GYRO-STAT®, we also offer a wide range of ESD solutions, including earth grounding products, modular ESD benches, ESD matting, and more. Visit our shop to find out more about these products, or feel free to reach out to our team today.
