20. 12. 2024
Choosing the right conductive floor for an ESD environment
Are you looking for a suitable floor for an ESD environment that will protect your equipment and ensure operational safety?
In our video, we'll show you how to choose a conductive floor that meets all the standards for ESD floors while also matching your specific needs. We'll explain why choosing the right materials is crucial for effectively dissipating electrostatic discharge.
Watch our video and find out how conductive floors help you create a safe working environment without the risk of damaging sensitive electronics!
Have questions? We're here for you.
If you need more information about ESD floors or help choosing, contact us today. Our experts will be glad to advise you and design a solution that precisely matches your production needs.
Fortelock ESD conductive flooring: key specifications
Fortelock offers two ESD ranges: ESD, 7 mm thick, and the large-format XL ESD, 4 mm thick, for areas with medium loads and a level subfloor. Conductivity is provided by stainless steel conductive fibres embedded directly in the material. The electrical resistance of the floor–footwear–person system is below 10⁹ Ω, the vertical resistance below 10⁶ Ω and the body voltage below 100 V. The resistance values apply at a relative air humidity of 30–55% and a temperature of 17–25 °C. For the floor to function as an ESD system, the installation must be supplemented with conductive tapes and a connection to the building's earthing.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Fortelock ESD and XL ESD tiles?
Mainly the format and thickness. ESD measures 510.5 × 510.5 mm including the lock, is 7 mm thick and takes 4 tiles per m². XL ESD measures 653 × 653 mm, is 4 mm thick and only 2.5 tiles are needed per m². XL ESD is designed for areas with medium loads and a level subfloor.
Which operations is conductive ESD flooring suitable for?
Operations where static electricity endangers products or safety. The manufacturer lists the production of electrical components, the automotive industry, areas at risk of explosion, electrical switchrooms, data centres, laboratories, healthcare and pharmaceuticals. Environments with a risk of explosion are covered in the article Conductive floors: A safe solution in ATEX-regulated operations.
Do ESD tiles lose conductivity as the surface wears?
Not according to the manufacturer. The Fortelock ESD tile is homogeneous throughout its 7 mm thickness, and conductivity is provided by stainless steel fibres embedded directly in the material, so it retains its conductive properties throughout its service life. Proper maintenance is important: cleaning products must not create an insulating layer.
What is the warranty on Fortelock ESD tiles?
Up to 12 years. The warranty terms explicitly include the ESD and XL ESD ranges, including accessories. Fortemix guarantees that, under normal use, the tiles will not wear through or tear and will be free of manufacturing defects for 12 years from delivery. The warranty applies to the original purchaser.
Who can help me choose the right ESD floor?
Fortemix's sales department, which you can find on the contact page. For technical preparation, the Fortelock ESD technical data sheet and the declaration of performance for Fortelock ESD can be downloaded from the website. Other documents, such as ISO 9001 and 14001 certificates or the maintenance guide, are also available to download, and a sales representative can supply them on request.
