Minimize or eliminate static with the proper environment and anti-static equipment.
As winter months approach, temperature and humidity drops which means print shop tends to turn on heaters which in turn lowers the moisture in the air even more. When the air is dry and the print shop is carpeted, the static charge builds up in our body and we can easily shock others or ourselves as the charge transfers due to a charge differential between the two objects.
What causes static electricity in vinyl film?
The process of vinyl separating during unrolling of a film through a printer can create static. As the roll moves through the printer, the metal platen discharges the film. If the shop environment is not clean, static will attract dirt to the surface of vinyl.
Figure 1. Roll unwinding process can cause static in cold and dry environment
Why does vinyl hold a static charge?
Static charge only builds up on insulators; they do not allow charged particles to flow through. Vinyl is an insulator so it's great at holding these charges.
How do you know if you have a static issue?
An indication of static-related printing issue are:
- banding when there are no missing nozzles or misdirected jets
- lightning pattern
How to minimize static:
- Ensure that the media has minimal static
- Grounding the printer directly to earth
- Uncarpeted print room
- Temperature-controlled environment: Control the humidity in the room with a humidifier (30-55% RH) and keep the ambient temperature in the range of 65°-75°F (20°-25°C).
- Use a static string or ionization bar that neutralize or eliminate the charge on vinyl's surface.
Figure 3. A clean print room with an epoxy floor which reduces the potential for static.
Conditions that cause static:
- Low humidity (<30% RH)
- Improper grounding
- Carpeted room
- Cold ambient temperature
Static Meter