Electronics Manufacturing

With the advancements in technology, electronics manufacturers face increasing challenges in producing high-quality products to stay competitive. As components and circuit sizes become smaller and more intricate, processes are increasing in complexity — higher component density, multiple layers, delicate parts, and precise placements – while operating margins are shrinking. Maintaining the appropriate humidity level within the facility helps to decrease damage and stress to electronic components, helping to protect your reputation as an industry leader and improve ROI. 

In a controlled environment where the relative humidity level is consistent, manufacturers experience a reduction of electrostatic discharge (ESD), fewer brittle components, reduced ineffective soldering and de-soldering occurrences, as well as a safer environment for staff. The use of relative humidity can be an additional layer of protection in ESD Protected Area (EPA) as humidity makes the air more conductive, helping absorb and more evenly distribute excess charges, minimizing static electricity, and protecting staff. While the build-up of electrostatic charge increases at low humidity, high humidity levels pose issues as well. When humidity levels are greater than 70 percent, corrosion becomes an issue and has the potential to damage electronic components. Because of this, maintaining relative humidity levels between 30 and 70 percent is recommended. 

The addition of humidity to the air within manufacturer facilities reduces electrostatic discharges (ESD), product defects, and downtime. Integrating a humidification system into an existing HVAC system is an economical and effective way for electronic manufacturers to provide protection to products and staff. 

Issues caused by low or fluctuating relative humidity

Potential damage to products  

• In an environment with too little humidity, the potential of electrostatic discharge (ESD) increases, which can damage products and harm staff.
• In an uncontrolled environment, high humidity condensation may occur within the electrical components, causing rust and corrosion.

Unhealthy environment for staff 

• Humidity affects the health and well-being of staff. High humidity creates an uncomfortable environment, while low humidity creates a dry environment that increases static electricity. 
• By controlling the relative humidity within a facility, electronic manufacturers can reduce the airborne transmission of viruses like SARS-CoV-2 and the seasonal flu. 

Resources

Buyer’s Guide: Humidification for Electronics Manufacturing
Learn more about how issues caused by low or fluctuating humidity levels can negatively affect an electronics manufacturing facility, creating the potential for inaccurate results and reducing the life span of expensive equipment. 

Next Steps

Contact your local DriSteem representative to learn more about humidity control for electronic manufacturing facilities. Use the Find a Rep tool below to find your nearest representative.

Already using humidity control to protect electronic manufacturing facilities?

For best performance and highest efficiency, existing humidification systems should be checked to determine if any replacement parts are needed, if any other maintenance needs to be performed, and whether there is a software update available. Contact your local DriSteem representative to learn more.