The Importance of Equipotential Bonding and Electrostatic Grounding

Nowadays, as the industry strives for the highest safety standards, protection systems against sparking and electrostatic discharges play a crucial role. Particularly in environments exposed to flammable substances—such as gases, liquids, or powders—the proper implementation of equipotential bonding and electrostatic grounding is indispensable. In our online store offering ATEX products, you will find solutions that meet strict safety standards, ensuring protection against the risks of ignition and explosion.

What Are Equipotential Bonds?

Equipotential bonding systems are designed to ensure that all metal components of devices and installations—such as pipes, connectors, elbows, and even conveyors (e.g., bucket conveyors)—are electrically connected. This maintains a uniform electrical potential, which minimizes the risk of potential differences. In practice, this means that even in the event of a spark, the energy is discharged instantly, effectively reducing the risk of ignition in environments exposed to flammable substances.

Main Assumptions and Operating Principles

Equalizing Potentials

Equipotential bonding systems work on the principle of galvanically connecting all conductive elements of an installation. As a result, no dangerous potential differences arise between individual elements, and in the event of a spark, the energy is quickly discharged. This solution is crucial for protection against electric shock and for preventing explosions.

Reducing the Risk of Electrostatic Discharges

In industrial environments, where the transportation and processing of flammable materials frequently occur, uncontrolled electrostatic discharges can pose serious hazards. Equipotential bonding and electrostatic grounding systems—often equipped with monitoring systems—ensure that the accumulated charge is safely discharged to the ground, preventing dangerous sparkovers.

Types of Equipotential Bonding

Main Bonds

Main bonds connect key elements of the installation, such as the main protective earth conductor (PE) and grounding bars. These systems also include connections to the building’s metal structures, pipe installations (water and gas systems), and other significant components. Their purpose is to maintain a uniform potential across the entire installation, forming the foundation of protection against electric shock and surges.

Local Bonds

Local bonds are used in specific areas or devices—for example, within individual switchboards or rooms with elevated risk. They create an equipotential zone that protects both the operators and the equipment from the effects of uncontrolled electrostatic discharge.

Application in Industry

In industrial practice, equipotential bonding systems are essential for protecting installations and equipment. Here are some examples of their application:

• Pipe Installations and Transmission Systems:
  All elements, such as pipes, connectors, or elbows, must be equipotentially connected to prevent potential differences that could lead to sparking.
• Conveyors:
  Bucket conveyors and other transport systems require that every structural component is properly bonded. This ensures that any accumulated electrostatic charge is safely discharged, eliminating the risk of a discharge.
• Grounding Control Systems:
  Modern solutions enable continuous monitoring of the grounding state. Grounding controllers can even prevent the transport or dosing of products if the grounding is not properly established. Such solutions are applied during the loading and unloading of tanker trucks, in the handling of tanks, and during operations involving big bags.

Electrostatic Grounding – An Extension of Equipotential Bonding

Electrostatic grounding systems are designed to discharge the accumulated electrostatic charge, preventing its build-up. In some cases, these systems are equipped with advanced controllers that continuously monitor the integrity of the grounding. This not only secures the installation but also allows for the control of production processes in areas where there is a risk of igniting flammable substances.

Summary

In our online store with ATEX products, we offer a wide range of accessories and systems that enable the creation of safe and compliant installations. With our products, you can be confident that your industrial installation meets the highest safety standards. We invite you to explore our offerings and take advantage of expert advice in selecting the right solutions.