ESD Systems - Questions And Answers

If you have PCBA place on pink foams to prevent them from moving or knocking into each other when in transit between processes are there any implications using the foams?
What other alternatives can be used for securing the PCBAs from moving freely while in transit?

Either pink or black foam need to be dissipative or conductive so when grounded charges will be removed to ground. Typically pink foam is recommended for shipping one time applications. Black foam with permanent dissipative/conductive properties are better for repetitive in-factory applications. Important features to consider when selecting foam is that the foam is non-contaminating, non-corrosive, and non-sloughing and whether insertion grade. Insertion grade allows component lead to be inserted into the foam. Note: per ANSI/ESD S541 section 7.2.2 “Packaging materials that are in intimate contact with devices should be dissipative.”

For protecting PCB or other ESD sensitive items physically, from electrostatic charges and discharges as well as from vibration and shock. As well as being low charging and dissipative, with the lid in place, our In Plant Handlers provide the ESD control property of shielding.

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