Meech launches 977HL Pulsed DC static controller

Meech has launched the 977HL PulsedDC static controller for hazardous areas of a factory. The company says it is a unique method of monitoring performance and controlling static levels in potentially dangerous environments, while ensuring maximum productivity of the press or production line.   

‘Eliminating sparks caused by the build up of static is vital in processes where chemicals such as solvents are used,’ said international product manager David Rogers. ‘There is a risk that the vapors produced could be ignited. A significant proportion of fires and explosions encountered across various industries are the result of a spark created by static.

‘In these hazardous areas of production, PulsedDC static control systems can be an ideal method of static control and they generally perform highly efficiently. However, ionizing bars lose their effectiveness when contaminated with dirt and dust and, if not cleaned, their ability to control static could be reduced to a dangerous level. Stopping the line to clean the bars, which may need to be done once a week, often means lost production and the problem facing the operator is to know when this has to be carried out.’

The new 977HL controller provides accurate monitoring of the performance of the bars, alerting the operator immediately, via local audible and visible warnings and remote alarm signals, when bars need to be cleaned. The performance level at which an alarm is activated can be set by the customer to suit individual requirements. 

The 977HL controller is situated in a safe area, connected to the ionizing bars in the hazardous area. Bars become contaminated at varying rates depending upon the process and equipment.

‘One of the huge benefits of the new 977HL is that it incorporates a true closed loop facility, which has the ability to automatically alter the balance of negative and positive ions being discharged by the bars, depending upon the levels monitored continuously in the material by a special sensor,’ said David Rogers.

‘Companies need to look closely at manufacturers’ claims of “closed loop” facilities because normally the material is measured only where the ionizing bar is positioned, which is simply not effective. By accurately monitoring the static levels a short distance beyond the bar, the 977HL can alter the negative/positive balance of the bar to ensure that the stock is neutral. This figure will almost certainly change throughout the day, depending on the stock, running speed or the ambient conditions.’

The closed loop facility means that current information relating to the residual electrostatic charge in the material being handled is always available on the LCD display. This data can be transmitted to allow remote monitoring and logging for quality assurance purposes. The keypad on the front of the unit enables the 977HL to be set up to suit the specifics of the application. These settings can be protected from unauthorized or accidental alteration by enabling a lock function.  

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