Overhead zero volt ioniser a breakthrough in ESD protection

Citation

(2001), "Overhead zero volt ioniser a breakthrough in ESD protection", Soldering & Surface Mount Technology, Vol. 13 No. 1. https://doi.org/10.1108/ssmt.2001.21913aaf.001

Overhead zero volt ioniser a breakthrough in ESD protection

Overhead zero volt ioniser a breakthrough in ESD protection

Semtronics, a division of Metcal will introduce the ZVI8000TM at APEX 2001, an overhead ioniser that offers maximum continuous coverage over work surfaces (Plate 1). The ZVI8000 combines the effectiveness of steady-state DC ionisation with a state-of-the-art micro-controller to produce an ionisation system that sets a new standard for ion balance control and high output.

The Semtronics ZVI8000 blows large quantities of positive and negative ions into the atmosphere to safely neutralise static charges surrounding ESD-sensitive boards, products and materials. And because the unit is placed overhead, it is the ideal solution for areas where bench space is limited.

Plate 1 ZV18000 from Semtronics, a division of Metcal, is an overhead zero volt ioniser that offers maximum continous coverage over work surfaces

The ZVI8000 is a breakthrough in stability, decay time and overall ionisation coverage. The unit employs a three fan ioniser, featuring steady-state dual DC ionisation and Semtronics' patented Sense Feedback balancing. Incorporates several technological advances, including reduced air velocity with increased coverage and no sacrifice of decay time. The ZVI8000 emits a gentle flow of ionised air that provides uniform coverage and faster neutralisation times. The auto balancing feature senses and maintains ion balance and is specially designed to provide continuous coverage over work surfaces that have turbulent or no airflow. These features make the ZVI8000 ideal for applications where high air velocity is detrimental to the process, such as gold wire bonding, surface mount areas, and MR head manufacturers.

The ZVI8000 provides automatic balancing of the ionisation system, essential for maximising uptime and optimising output. Automatic balancing compensates for emitter point contamination, humidity changes, and other conditions that might affect balance at the work surface.

Normally, the maintenance cost of a quality ioniser can quickly become the majority of the cost of ownership. With the ZVI8000, return on investment (ROI), is increased and maintenance costs are slashed. Users can quickly disassemble the unit and thoroughly clean the fan housing, fan blades, inside surface of the sense screen or finger guard, emitter shaft and emitter points. Plus, the system's local maintenance alarm capability and the use of remote monitoring via data output further enhances ROI. By pinpointing only the units that need attention, the periodic verification cycle can be lengthened.

The ZVI8000 Zero Volt Ioniser is fully compliant with the Semtronics remote monitoring network. Coupled with Semtronics Audit-Mate™ (SAM™) software, SCCN manages data and transmits it via RS485/RS232. This capability provides both real time information and invaluable archived data for traceability of each production batch.

Further information is available from Tel: +44 (0)23 80489100; Fax: +44 (0)23 80489109; E-mail: nrnorin@ metcal.com