Monroe Electronics Electrostatic Fieldmeter - Static Monitor - model 177A - Manual (Page 69)

APNE-0016 68
Investigation of High Electric Field Problem Areas with Handheld Fieldmeters
Unless the humidity of a web converting machine area is controlled to 50-60% RH, the
highest electric fields tend to be found during ‘worst case’ humidity conditions such as the
driest winter months. The typical indoor humidity of industrial buildings is usually less than
15% RH during these periods, and the opportunity of obtaining the most meaningful electric
field data is at its best.
It may already be apparent where high electric field problem areas exist on a web-
converting machine due to previous incidents such as fires, shocks to people, web transfer
problems and/or poor product quality. However, new problems areas may appear due to
changes in raw materials, environmental conditions, machine mechanical components, etc.
The locations and electric field strength of problem areas should be determined and
recorded using portable fieldmeters.
Monroe Electronics manufactures portable fieldmeters that are capable of easily and
accurately determining high-field problem areas. Two fieldmeters that are recommended for
surveying web converting machines are the Monroe Electronics Models 282A and 282IS.
(See also Application Note APNE-0012, Comparison of Monroe Electronics' Handheld
Fieldmeters.)
For accuracy, ease of use, and flammable atmospheres
The Monroe Electronics Model 282A Digital Stat-Arc 3  Electrostatic Fieldmeter
features the highest available accuracy (5%) and voltage resolution (10 volts) in a
hand-held fieldmeter. The Model 282A also features a ranging system, consisting of
two pulsing LED’s, that show the operator when the fieldmeter is being held one
inch from the target surface. It includes a HOLD button to capture and hold the
readings made at locations where the display cannot be viewed during the
measurement. An intrinsically safe version of the Model 282A, which is the Model
282IS, is rated for use in many hazardous environments.
Both the Model 282A and 282IS are chopper stabilized for drift-free operation, even
in ionized environments.
 StatArc is a registered trademark of Monroe Electronics, Inc.