Conductive Gloves
Conductive gloves are made from a wide range of materials, from copper fiber to polyurethane, nylon, PVC, anti-static fabric or conductive carbon fibers. The gloves have a durable, non-slip surface, they are very elastic and they are available in different designs, including knitted designs. The gloves are available in different sizes: S, M, L or XL and they aim to protect the worker’s hands while ensuring increased efficiency and productivity.
In addition to the non-slip surface that is commonly met amongst these gloves, the conductive gloves are also very light weight and comfortable, they provide efficient ventilation and they have anti-static effects. Generally speaking, the copper conductive gloves are widely used by workers who deal with frequent static electricity: they are used in computer assembling factories, as well as factories where mobile phones or electronic circuits are being manufactured.
The gloves also offer increased protection for those who handle TFT-LCD screens and monitors and for those who develop photographic films in specialized laboratories or who handle high precision optics and instrumentations. The conductive gloves are also widely used in the petrochemical industry. In addition to this, the conductive gloves can also come with an added logo: silicone print or embroidery that can be easily washed, or silk screen printing based on the request of the customer.
Some gloves are designed to be used both in cleanrooms, the pharmaceutical industry, paint line, in electronics and for handling electronic instruments – these are usually gauge nylon gloves with copper fiber additions that come with knitted cuffs. Generally speaking, the gloves used for the above-mentioned applications come with a knit write, for increased fit and snug – they also provide greater dexterity and they are highly sensitive, due to the polyester which is highly stretchable.
The surface resistance varies from one pair of conductive gloves to another, but the average resistance is between 105 and 109 ohms. The length varies between 21-25, and the gloves are available in longer patterns as well (up to 28). However, most workers who deal with electronic circuits choose the short, wrist-long globes as they provide them increased flexibility. Generally speaking, fingerless gloves are the most popular choice for those who work in the field of precision machinery assembling.
The finger tips are usually folded back at least two times for increased durability and protection of the fingers, to prevent any dust or sand particles from getting inside the globes. Polyurethane is the most commonly used material for conductive globes, as it eliminates dust and it also provides efficient static discharging at the same time, thus allowing the worker to perform his task quicker and without the hassles.
Conductive gloves are re-usable, which makes them very environmentally-friendly. The material used for manufacturing the gloves varies: for instance, nylon fibers are used for protecting the palm, while the back of the hand is usually protected with stronger nylon with anti-static fibers. The gloves are carefully inspected and tested prior to reaching the store shelves, and most stores manufacture customer-ordered sizes or designs.
