Electronics Manufacturing
With the advancements in technology, electronics manufacturers face increasing challenges to producing high-quality products to stay competitive. As components and circuit sizes become smaller and more intricate, processes are increasing in complexity — higher component density, multiple layers, delicate parts, and precise placements – while operating margins are shrinking. Maintaining the appropriate humidity level within the facility helps to decrease damage and stress to electronic components, helping to protect your reputation as an industry leader and improve ROI.
In a controlled environment where the relative humidity level is consistent manufacturers experience a reduction of electrostatic discharge (ESD), fewer brittle components, reduced ineffective soldering, and de-soldering occurrences, as well a safer environment for staff. The use of relative humidity can be an additional layer of protection in ESD Protected Area (EPA) as humidity makes the air more conductive, helping absorb and more evenly distribute excess charges, minimizing static electricity, and protecting staff. While the build-up of electrostatic charge increases at low humidity, high humidity levels pose issues as well. When humidity levels are greater than 70 percent corrosion becomes an issue and has the potential to damage electronic components. Because of this, maintaining relative humidity levels between 30 and 70 percent is recommended.
The addition of humidity to the air within manufacturer facilities reduces electrostatic discharges (ESD), product defects, and downtime. Integrating a humidification system into an existing HVAC system is an economical and effective way for electronic manufacturers to provide protection to products and staff.
Issues caused by low or fluctuating relative humidity
Potential damage to product
- In an environment with too little humidity the potential of electrostatic discharge (ESD) increases which can damage product and harm staff.
- In an uncontrolled environment high humidity condensation may occur within the electrical components causing rust and corrosion.
Unhealthy environment for staff
- Humidity affects the health and well-being of staff. High humidity creates an uncomfortable environment while a dry environment is created within low humidity which increases static electricity.
- By controlling the relative humidity within a facility, electronic manufacturers can reduce the airborne transmission of viruses like SARS-CoV-2 and the seasonal flu.
Resources
Buyer’s Guide: Humidification for Electronics Manufacturing
Learn more how issues caused by low or fluctuating humidity levels can negatively affect an electronics manufacturing facility, creating the potential for inaccurate results and reducing life span of expensive equipment.