Electrostatic discharge (ESD) is one of the most underestimated risks in electronics assembly. A tiny static shock that humans can’t even feel—as low as 20–30 volts—can damage sensitive semiconductors, introduce latent defects, or compromise system reliability long after products leave the factory. Industry analyses estimate that 8–33% of all electronic failures are ESD-related, especially in high-density, miniaturized assemblies.
As component sizes shrink to 0201, 01005, and 008004, input protection is minimal—sometimes below 50 V human body model (HBM). Without ESD-safe leaders, reels, tapes, and tools, static can silently degrade every splice point in the process.
Uptime begins with confidence in every splice, every feeder load, every reel changeover. Sierra Electronics covers that last mile of electrostatic protection—so your SMT line stays productive and your products stay reliable.
ESD-Safe Handling for SMT Splicing & Reels
Sierra Electronics Electrostatic Protection Program
Executive Summary
ESD events remain a leading cause of electronic component failure in advanced manufacturing. Sierra Electronics integrates electrostatic protection directly into the materials and processes that feed SMT production lines. This white paper details our engineering controls, testing methodologies, and compliance with industry safety standards.
| ESD Source | Typical Voltage | Failure Visibility |
|---|---|---|
| Human body | 500–25,000 V | Sometimes immediate, often latent |
| Machine/motion discharge | 20–500 V | Usually latent |
| Reel peeling static | 100–2,000 V | Latent and intermittent |
Static-Dissipative SMD Reels
ESD-Safe SMT Splice Tapes
Antistatic Splice Tools
All assemblies undergo models aligned with ANSI/ESD S20.20 and IEC 61340:
| Test | Purpose | Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Surface Resistance | Confirm dissipative pathways | ANSI/ESD STM11.11 |
| Static Decay Time | Verify charge bleed-off speed | MIL-STD-3010 4046 |
| Peel-back Charge Measurement | Control static generation during covertape removal | IEC 61340-2-3 |
Each production batch is traceable for full electrostatic compliance auditing.
Best-practice guidelines when using Sierra Electronics products:
When applied correctly, our materials provide continuous static protection from the warehouse to post-reflow inspection.
Best-practice guidelines when using Sierra Electronics products:
When applied correctly, our materials provide continuous static protection from the warehouse to post-reflow inspection.
Organizations that fail to control ESD experience:
A single ESD-induced recall can exceed millions in lost contracts.
Sierra Electronics ensures that every splice, every reel, and every tool supports robust ESD controls—so manufacturers can focus on output, uptime, and superior product reliability.
We don’t just meet standards.
We engineer assurance.
Founder of Sierra Electronics, has dedicated his career to advancing SMT tape splicing solutions. With decades of expertise and a passion for innovation, he built the company on reliability, precision, and customer trust.
