ESD Packaging

ESD Packaging Applications

Electrostatic discharge (ESD) protective packaging provides an integral layer of protection when shipping or storing sensitive electronic devices. This packaging usually takes the form of ESD rigid packaging boxes, but they can be tailored to meet specific needs. Kiva Container creates ESD packaging for these common applications:

• High-temperature cofired ceramic (HTCC) hermetic packages
• Ceramic-to-metal-seal (CTMS) and glass-to-metal-seal (GTMS) hermetic packages
• Ultra high density interconnect (UHDI) flex circuits
• Integrated circuits and circuit card assemblies
• Custom manufactured semiconductors
• PCB boards
• Fiber-optic cabling and connection components
• Optoelectronic sensors
• Electromechanical hermetically sealed relays
• Custom LEDs
• Custom and standard photodiodes

What is ESD?

Electrostatic discharge, or static electricity, is the electric charge that occurs when two electrified objects make contact with one another. This jolt is harmless when, for example, a person touches something conductive after walking across a carpet. However, ESD can damage sensitive electronic components. When exposed to combustible gasses or liquids, ESD may also cause fires or explosions.

Types of ESD Protective Materials

Various materials are utilized in ESD protective packaging to manage static electricity effectively. Conductive materials, such as thermo-formable polymers (.02-.06), conductive plastic corrugated (3mm and 4mm), and conductive paper corrugated (200lb B and E flute double wall), create a low-resistance path, allowing static charges to dissipate safely. These materials provide an essential layer of protection against static buildup, especially in ESD rigid packaging, which combines both structural support and electrostatic protection.

Static-dissipative materials, like clear PVC (.015-.035), ensure the controlled release of static electricity at a slower, safer rate, minimizing the risk of electric surges damaging sensitive electronics. Specialized ESD packaging medical acrylics are also used in packaging for medical devices, ensuring safe handling and compliance with strict standards for static protection in medical environments.

Together, these materials are key in protecting delicate electronic components across various industries.

Types of ESD Packaging Solutions

Different types of ESD packaging are available depending on the specific needs of the product. Common solutions include antistatic bags, which are used for smaller electronic components. These bags prevent static charges from building up around the device. For larger items, ESD rigid packaging offers enhanced protection.

This type of packaging, often made from hard plastic or other durable materials, not only prevents electrostatic damage but also provides the structural support necessary for transporting fragile or bulky items. Foam inserts and trays, often used in combination with rigid packaging, further protect sensitive devices by cushioning them against impact while ensuring that static electricity is controlled.

Why Anti-Static ESD Packaging?

Most electronic component manufacturers have safeguards in place to prevent electrostatic damage during production. After production, components are handled by subcontractors, shipping agents, and retailers who may inadvertently cause ESD damage. No manufacturer can oversee every shipment from the factory to the purchaser, so ESD packaging containers protect your products from unforeseen ESD damage and save your organization money.

Specifically, anti-static ESD packaging prevents charges from originating within the package while also dissipating potential charges from the exterior. Anti-static ESD packaging material is usually made from polyethylene foam, tubing, sheeting, or bags. It can also line the inside of circuit board boxes, ensuring the safety and quality of individual products as well as those in the same shipping container.

Applications of ESD Packaging Across Industries

ESD protective packaging plays a critical role across multiple industries by safeguarding sensitive electronic components from electrostatic discharge. In electronics manufacturing, ESD protective packaging is crucial during production and assembly processes, where even a minor static charge can cause significant damage to circuit boards, microchips, and other components. By using the right packaging, manufacturers can ensure product reliability and reduce costly defects.

In the automotive industry, electronic parts used in vehicles, such as sensors and control modules, are transported in ESD rigid packaging to prevent electrostatic damage during shipping and handling. This is especially important because damaged parts could lead to malfunctions in safety-critical systems.

The aerospace and defense industries also rely heavily on ESD protective packaging to shield precision equipment from static charges. Given the high cost and technical complexity of aerospace electronics, protecting these components is vital to maintaining their functionality and reliability in harsh environments.

Industries like telecommunications and medical equipment manufacturing also benefit from ESD packaging to protect sensitive devices that must perform under strict conditions, ensuring long-term performance and safety.

Safe and Secure ESD Packaging from Kiva Container

With over 35 years of experience, Kiva Container is a leader in the ESD packaging industry. We offer custom ESD packaging, corrugated plastic fabrication, vacuum forming and thermoforming, integrated packaging, plastic pallets, and a selection of standard items. We are a woman-owned company focused on reusable and returnable packaging solutions, and we are one of few manufacturers to offer both corrugated plastic and solid sheet forming in one facility. To partner with us for your unique packaging solution, start by requesting a quote today.