Manufacturing, transportation, and delivery of electronic circuit boards, flat-panels, motherboards, hard drives, microchips, and more require the use of ESD-safe, static controlled bags. Problematically, the confusion of terminology between anti-static, static-shielding, and static dissipative bags risks errant voltage, improper handling, and compromised electronic devices.

The Difference

Anti-static bags prevent triboelectric charge build-up but do not shield components inside the bag from electrostatic discharge. Anti-static bags sustain safe component handling only in EPAs (ESD protected areas). Static shielding bags provide a fully encompassing ESD protection mechanism for components within the bag and in both EPA and non-EPA areas.

Difference Between Metal-In and Metal-Out ESD Shielding Bags

Metalized shielded bags feature either a metal-in or metal-out design. The buried metal design is common for the packaging of ESD-sensitive (ESDS) components. Metal-out shielding bags also protect against static-induced damage. The benefits of metal in construction are usually a factor of cost and durability. A metal layer closer to the outside surface results in a lower resistant reading than the metal-in ESD bags, which can be important in some applications.

Packing and Handling Requirements for ANSI/ESD Compliance

• The main ESD function of these packaging and materials handling products is to limit the possible impact of ESD from triboelectric charge generation, direct discharge, and in some cases electrostatic fields.
• A second requirement is that the material can be grounded so that the resistance range must be conductive or dissipative. A third property required outside the EPA is to provide protection from direct electrostatic discharges that is discharge shielding.
• A third property required outside the EPA is to provide protection from direct electrostatic discharges that is discharge shielding. ESDA.org 

ANSI/ESD STM11.31 provides a method of evaluation for the energy transferred from the package to the interior.

Find metal-in or metal-out static control bags online! Here at Texas Technologies, we offer a variety of static shielding bags designed to protect your ESD vulnerable devices. We are happy to discuss the options with you and help find a customized solution for your packaging needs. Please contact our specialists to assist you.