Static Electricity and ESD Matting

 

Considering just the physical activity of moving your arms and legs can build up relatively large electrostatic discharges (ESD) that we may never notice, there’s very little activity that isn’t dangerous to electronic components – even their assembly. But there are steps you can take and tools that have been developed to protect your sensitive electronics. One simple, popular tool is an antistatic or ESD mat.

How Does an ESD Mat Work?

An ESD mat is a very important part of an ESD protected area.  ESD mats are designed to eliminate static on its surface and of objects placed upon it.   It does this by having a conductive material embedded within the mat that collects the static and sends it to ground (earth). 

The simplest form of an ESD mat is simply that – a tabletop mat, about the size of a place mat, that you use on a desk, table or any flat surface. For larger workspaces, or dedicated ESD workstations, you can invest in rolls of ESD matting or custom-sized mats.  Just make sure, regardless of the size or quantity used, that all of the mats are grounded.

 They typically connect with a personal grounding wrist strap – adding additional protection by drawing any ESD charge away from the person working on the device.

ESD mats also use a common ground to draw the electrostatic discharge away from offending areas. Without that ground, the mat could, in theory, protect the item being worked on at first, but would then transfer the ESD to the very next thing it comes into contact with – the next item, the person holding it (and then to the item), or even right back onto the item it was originally meant to protect.

For larger workspaces, or dedicated ESD workstations, you can invest in rolls of ESD matting or custom-sized mats.  Just make sure, regardless of the size or quantity used, that all of the mats are grounded.

Based upon your application, ESD mats should be in the dissipative or conductive range. Something insulative is not considered ESD safe.

More ESD products.

For a full ESD catalogue please click here

If there is anything else we can assist you with please just ask us.

 You can access the three catalogues below by clicking on them to download. Please be aware they are large PDF's (in size 20-300mb in size)

 

Best regards, 

John Christensen 

 "Probably the best gas Irons in the world are made by Oglesby & Butler, in Ireland."

 

Portasol brand products are a range of high-quality gas powered heat tools. Pioneers of this technology we are the no.1 choice for professional and DIY users.

These irons are powered by butane gas and give the user flexibility of not being attached to a 220 Vac power cord.

Our most popular version is the PRO II and PRO II Kit

The tool specifically geared for Telecom Authorities and other large User Groups requiring high power and versatility. The Pro II appears at first sight to be a variation of the SuperPro (see below), however, there are subtle differences.
The entire front end is our latest style (see also Pro Piezo in "New Products") and incorporates a centrally held piezo ignition system for ultra reliability.

Soldering power is conservatively claimed to be 90 watts, the hot air function is excellent for small diameter heat shrinkable tubing, and the flame can only be described as "vicious".

Eleven tip types available plus hot air deflector. Average run time per fill, 90 minutes plus. Piezo ignition built in.
N.B. Tips not interchangeable with the SuperPro model.

For a full Portasol catalogue click here

If there is anything else we can assist you with please just ask us.

You can access the three catalogues below by clicking on them to download. Please be aware they are large PDF's (in size 20-300mb in size) 

 

Best regards, 

John Christensen 

Christensen ToolsPlease call us. We do everything in tools.
Choose Christensen Tools for quality.

Connect

In this edition discover the new and innovative range of C.K SPIRA-FLEX draw tapes, the perfect solution for the smooth routing  of cables through conduit, trunking, ducts and wall cavities. We also feature the fantastic new C.K Magma Technician's Wheeled Tool Case, which takes the strain out of transporting tools. Finally, the brand new Interchangeable Slim Bladed Screwdriver Set from C.K provides complete versatility for every electrician, offering much better access to recessed screws and fixings.

The Wheeled Tool Case Features:   Rugged and durable chassis, wheels and telescopic handle  for all terrain use   Vertical storage retaining strap to keep pocket off floor   Extra wide main compartment featuring a red lining for high tool visibility

Storage just got serious.

PREMIUM TOOL STORAGE FOR PROFESSIONALS
C.K is the trusted choice of trade professionals and has been at the forefront of hand tool manufacturing for over 100 years. C.K Magma, C.K’s range of premium tool storage, is manufactured from heavyweight polyester for exceptional durability and are truly smarter by design.

C.K Magma combines optimal functionality with creative style to deliver an eye-catching range of premium storage and PPE that is truly smarter by design. Developed in collaboration with trade professionals, C.K Magma products are designed to get the job done in style. With its modern and contemporary look, C.K Magma is the preferred choice of trade professionals who aspire to look good both at work and at leisure.

Built to survive the rigours of everyday work, C.K Magma products provide all the functionality, comfort and protection trade professionals need.

Their range includes:

    Tool cases
    Technician's rucksacks
    Totes
    Bags
    Tool rolls
    Contractor's organiser
    Tool belt & accessories
    Tool belt sets
    Tool vest & rig

 

If there is anything else we can assist you with please just ask us.

You can access the three catalogues below by clicking on them to download. Please be aware they are large PDF's (in size 20-300mb in size) 

 

Best regards, 

John Christensen 

Whats in the big black box?  

For so many years now, we have been designing and supplying happy technicians with what has now become the infamous black toolkit.  Having all your tools easily available on two trays makes finding the right tool so much easier.  Imagine having to scrummage through a plastic shopping packet each time you wanted to find something?  Doesn't quite portray the professional image you are wanting I am sure.

When you remove a tool from our foams, its easy to see which tool (even by shape) is missing, thereby reducing the chances of leaving tools on site.

Our most popular toolkit by far is the RSA 1708C-CK Technicians toolkit for electronics, repair and maintenance. But we have a wide variety available.

In addition, we have a wide range of empty bags ranging in size from large cases, to smaller zip up bags, ideal when you have a small range of tools you need on site.

Our three catalogues are available below (click to download)  for you to browse through at your leisure.

( they are large PDF's 200-300MB in size each)

  

If there is anything else we can assist you with please just ask us.

Best regards, 

http://www.paintinganddecoratingnews.co.uk/decorating-industry/guides-and-data/damp-moisture-its-all-about-detective-work/

Damp & Moisture – it’s all about detective work

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BY PDN PAUL ON JULY 9, 2018GUIDES AND INFORMATION

Damp is unwanted moisture in a building which has no means of escape. Of course every professional decorator knows that damp can be very damaging and it’s unwise to paint onto damp surfaces. So, what should you do and what’s the best course of action if you see or suspect damp?

Here Draper Tools offers some advice on detecting and dealing with damp.

Common causes
Damp mainly falls into three categories, damp caused by condensation, rain penetration or rising damp – which occurs when groundwater rises up through walls, floors and masonry. Buildings damaged by floods will obviously also be affected by damp.

Condensation is perhaps the most common cause of damp you’ll come across, occurring when warm, moist air comes into contact with a cold surface. This warm, moist air can come from everyday activities such as drying clothes on a radiator or even simply breathing. Simple things like opening windows can help to reduce issues with condensation.

Older properties tend to be more commonly affected by damp but building defects, leaks, flooding and other issues can equally cause damp in more modern buildings.

Signs, symptoms and damage
Damp can allow various fungi to grow, leading to mould which can have some serious health implications. In terms of building damage, you can expect to see staining from water and from mould as well as deterioration of plaster and paint or peeling wallpaper. Indoors, excessive damp can negatively affect air quality and cause rust too. On a building’s exterior, signs of damp may include crumbling mortar.

Detection tools
All paints types vary but generally speaking, most will require a relative humidity level below 75% for best results. If you suspect damp at a property you’re tasked with decorating, it’s a good idea to test for moisture. To help with this, Draper Tools offers a Damp Detector (stock no: 34873), which is ideal for detecting rising and penetrating damp in foundation walls, floors and timbers. It’s also suitable for checking dryness of surfaces prior to papering or tiling and capable of letting you know that wood is dry before painting or varnishing. It features audible signals which clearly detect the presence of damp and humidity.

If you’re looking for a new damp or moisture meter look for something compact but solid. It needs to be fairly small, so it can still work in tight spaces. Some models will feature prongs in order to test the surface, these need to be sharp and strong, but also as small as possible, so as not to leave a noticeable hole. There are also models with LCD display screens, showing the moisture content as a percentage, like the Draper Tools Moisture Meter) for measuring water content in wood, plaster and concrete.

What to do next
If moisture or damp is detected, you ideally don’t want to start painting or papering over it, otherwise blistering and flaking can occur. What’s more, without knowing what’s causing the problem, painting over it may worsen the issue and lead to mould. See if it’s possible to determine what’s causing the damp first, if it’s something serious such as a leak, do not proceed. The problem will need to be fixed before you can paint over it. If the damp is less serious or the issue has been fixed, it may simply be a case of needing to properly dry out the space before you paint it. For this you could use a fan or a dehumidifier. Alternatively, if the space you’re painting has air conditioning or an extractor fan, it’s a good idea to turn these on too. Be warned though, depending on the extent of the damp, the drying out process could take a while.

Decorating after flood damage
In severe cases drying out could take months, this likely to be the case when decorating a flood-damaged property. If you know a property has been flooded, it is best to make sure there is no permanent damage to the substrate such as plaster, wood or brick before you begin work. After a severe flood it may even be advisable to seek the advice of a professional building surveyor.

Damp checklist

• Check for visual signs of damp
• Use a moisture meter or damp detector to check moisture levels
• If the property has damp, find out the cause
• Ensure the issue causing the damp (such as a leak) is fixed before proceeding
• Dry out the space with a dehumidifier or fan if needed

For more details as well as painting & decorating essentials visit www.drapertools.com

Damp & Moisture – it’s all about detective work