Newson Gale Ltd

Static Grounding and Bonding System

Static grounding systems like the Earth-Rite range ® combine interlock control and visual indication to verified ground connection points and offer the highest levels of protection over electrostatic ignition risks. However, equipment specifiers may select passive static discharge grounding cables grounding devices, like single pole clamps, to ground and bond plant equipment.

When flammable or combustible products are being handled and processed in hazardous areas it is essential to specify certified equipment that will protect personnel from sources of electrostatic ignition.

Static grounding clamps that combine Factory Mutual & ATEX approvals are rigorously tested and certified to ensure they are capable of dissipating static charges from potentially charged equipment. This is especially significant when the equipment can be covered in coatings, product deposits or rust that is capable of preventing the clamp from making low resistance electrical contact with the equipment to be grounded.

Establishing a solid electrical connection can only be achieved by penetrating any connection inhibitors like coatings, product deposits and rust. Factors like this will impede the dissipation of static charges from the object to ground if the static bonding and grounding clamp is not capable of penetrating them and making a connection to the base metal of the container or vessel. Once a strong connection is established, it is vital that this connection remains constant for the duration of the process operation.

Heavy Duty grounding clamps with static grounding cable reels.

Retracting cable reels are an alternative solution to using retractable Cen-Stat spiral cable.

They are normally specified for locations where there is a preference for ensuring process operators stow grounding clamps correctly for good “housekeeping” purposes when the clamps are not in use. Newson Gale’s “R-series” of static discharge grounding reels offer Hytrel cable housed on automatically retractable cable reel.