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lawrenceb  
#1 Posted : 15 February 2011 09:50:24(UTC)
Rank: New forum user
lawrenceb

Can any of you help, we are setting up a static sensitive workbench, what are the minimum requirements for bonding points, and as we will have mains powered equipment on the bench, do we need an RCD fitted. If you can help directly or point me in the right direction it would be appreciated
Ron Hunter  
#2 Posted : 15 February 2011 15:36:56(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
Ron Hunter

Usual arrangement is to have high impedance resistor between equipotential bench and earth, and for added safety a similar resistor in-line on the operator wrist strap. You cannot have any Class 1 appliances on or near the bench for static-sensitive work. In these particular circumstances I would suggest RCD/ RCBO is imperative.
lawrenceb  
#3 Posted : 16 February 2011 13:02:28(UTC)
Rank: New forum user
lawrenceb

Ron - thanks for that, we have the matting with press stud connectors linked to a stud which is connected to a 3 pin plug with only the earth pin fitted. We also have a break out box for connecting the wristbands to. Thanks for the heads up on Class 1 stuff though, good to know, will ensure the soldering unit supplied is class 2!! We intend to get the breakout box hooked up to a nearby earth bonding strip and will advise the boss of the need for an RCD Many thanks for your help
Ron Hunter  
#4 Posted : 16 February 2011 15:38:26(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
Ron Hunter

That won't provide ESD protection without the resistors in-line. You need to protect the devices from leakage and spikes which may be transmitted via the ring-main earth - that's the operational reason for not having Class 1 equipment on the bench. Best to speak with the specialist providers of this type of kit. p.s. I don't think I've ever come across a soldering iron that wasn't class 2.
lawrenceb  
#5 Posted : 16 February 2011 15:41:18(UTC)
Rank: New forum user
lawrenceb

Thanks Ron, checked the breakout box, it's all resistored up, happy days, as for the soldering unit, nor me, but I'll check anyway
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