Desco 19587 Installation Manual

TECHNICAL BULLETIN TB-2079

Neutralizing Ion Python Hand Gun
Operation and Maintenance

NOTE: These units are not recommended for continuous use.

IONIZER SELECTION

MODEL STYLE VOLTAGE AC IEC CORD

19587 Hand Gun 120 Yes

19588 Hand Gun 220 No

ANSI/ESD S20.20 paragraph 6.1.1.2. ESD Control Program
Plan Guidance states: “The Plan should include a listing of the
specific type of ESD protective materials and equipment used

Figure 1. Ion Python Hand Gun (Controller with Hose)

Description

The Desco Ion Python Neutralizing Hand Gun is a ready-to-use
unit designed for use in applications and areas where static can
create manufacturing or handling problems. These units quickly
and effectively neutralize bulk static charges and aid in controlling
contamination by dislodging dust and debris attracted by static
electricity. Airflow may be easily adjusted from a gentle stream to
a powerful blast. These units are designed for use in applications

and areas where ElectroStatic Attraction contamination create
manufacturing or handling problems (Ref: ESD Handbook
TR 20.20 paragraph 5.3.6.5.2.4 Point of Use Ionization). The
Ion Python meets or exceeds the recommended technical
requirements of ANSI/ESD S20.20 tested in accordance with
ANSI/ESD S3.1.

Ionizers are useful in preventing electrostatic charge generation,

ElectroStatic Discharge, ElectroStatic Attraction, as well as
preventing equipment latch-up and safety related shock. ANSI/
ESD S20.20 Paragraph 6.2.3.1 Protected Areas Requirement
states: “Ionization or other charge mitigating techniques shall be

used at the workstation to neutralize electrostatic fields on all
process essential insulators if the electrostatic field is considered
a threat.” Ionization is used to neutralize charges on process

necessary insulators and isolated semiconductors. Some
examples of process necessary insulators are: the PC board

itself, plastic test stands, plastic housing where a PCB may
be mounted, as well as computer monitor screens and regular

cleaning wipes. Examples of floating or isolated conductors are:

loaded PCB mounted in a stand where the pins are not contacting
the dissipative workstation. Ionization is not effective on items that
have large capacitance, like people and carts; however, ionizers
should be considered as a method for charge neutralization in
cases where grounding cannot be achieved.

Air ionization can neutralize the static charge on insulated and
isolated objects by producing separate charges in the molecules
of the gases of the surrounding air. When an electrostatic charge
is present on objects in the work environment, it will be neutralized
by attracting opposite polarity charges from the ionized air. Note
that ionization systems should not be used as a primary means

of charge control on conductors or people. (Reference: IEC
61340-5-2:1 paragraph 5.2.9).

The Ion Python Neutralizing Hand Gun is NIST calibrated. They

come equipped with universal IEC cord connectors.

in the Program.” When selecting an ionizer life cycle costs

should be considered including: equipment cost; installation

cost; and operation and maintenance cost.

Air Requirements

Always supply the Ion Python Hand Gun with filtered, dry
noncombustible gases, such as compressed shop air or nitrogen.

(If nitrogen is used, the tip will need to be replaced and the unit

recalibrated. This MUST be done by the factory. Contact customer

service at 909-627-8178). If the air is not dry, damage to the

equipment may result and the warranty will be voided. Dirty air
can introduce moisture and oil, contaminating the units’ emitter
assembly along with the materials to be cleaned or neutralized.
Filters must therefore be used at all times upstream of the air
nozzle. A water trap-type pre-filter should be used in conjunction
with an oil coalescing-type filter. Also drain all moisture traps

regularly to prevent moisture in the line. Several drainings per day

may be necessary, especially in areas of high humidity.

The Neutralizing Ion Python Hand Gun may be operated over a

range of 30 PSI to 100 PSI. The specific pressure needed will
depend upon the application. Pressures exceeding 100 PSI are

not recommended since these higher pressures are detrimental

to effective ion production. An air pressure setting of 60 PSI is
recommended. Use the needle valve located on the back of the

controller to properly adjust the air flow.

Air Supply Connection

Turn off air at regulator (or compressor). Insert the brass male
connector (1/4” tubing to 1/8” pipe thread) into an available port
on the regulator. If all ports are being used, a “T” or “+” may be
added to create more ports. Connect the 1/4” tubing to the male

connector on the needle valve on back side of the unit, following
the instructions given below.

To connect tubing or filter to quick connect fitting:

Cut end of plastic tubing square and clean. Push against the collar
with thumbnail. While holding collar in, push tubing into the fitting
until it bottoms out completely.

To release tubing or filter from quick connect fitting:

Push against the collar with thumbnail. While holding collar in,
push tubing inward slightly, then pull tubing out.

Made in America

DESCO EAST - One Colgate Way, Canton, MA 02021-1407 • [phone] • Fax [phone] • Web Site: Desco.com

TB-2079 February 2010 Page 1 of 4

DESCO WEST - 3651 Walnut Avenue, Chino, CA 91710 • [phone] • Fax [phone]

© 2010 DESCO INDUSTRIES INC.

Employee Owned

IMPORTANT NOTE: User should exercise caution when using
any compressed air device.

Filter (when used)

Figure 2. Connecting the optional filter. (Available as item #60355)

Electrical Requirements

The Ion Python and Neutralizing Hand Gun must be connected to
a properly grounded receptacle for the units to operate properly. It
is recommended that the AC outlet be checked for proper wiring
and grounding.

Do not under any circumstances remove the ground pin from
the plug of these units.

NOTE: Grounding of these units is necessary not only
to ensure that they operate properly, but to eliminate the
possibility of an electrical shock.

Operation

Turn on unit with switch on the front panel. The green light
indicates that the air nozzle is ready for use. Point nozzle at object
to be cleaned or neutralized.

For the Neutralizing Hand Gun, push button on the nozzle body
to initiate the flow of air and neutralizing ions. Best results are
normally obtained when holding the nozzle within 2 or 3 feet of the
item being neutralized; hold the nozzle closer when required.

NOTE: Unit is not designed for continuous duty.

A needle valve is located on the back of the unit for fine
adjustments to the air flow, or for shutting off the air to the nozzle.
Airflow on the unit can be adjusted from a gentle blow to a strong
blast, allowing for use in most applications. Do not obstruct the
air jet with fingers or other objects. Do not force any object into
the air jet hole; this action can easily damage the emitter pin and
prevent the controller from producing the ionization necessary for
neutraliz ing static charges.

The ion balance is affected by many fac tors, such as distance, air
flow, humidity, and emitter contamination. Therefore, before using
this device around components and assemblies which are highly

sensitive to ESD, it is recom mended that the user thoroughly

evaluate the application prior to its use. Avoid sharply bending or
crushing the black convoluted tubing under feet, rolling chairs or
other furniture.

IMPORTANT NOTE: These air nozzles are not explosion proof.
Do not use in environments where volatile materials are
present.

Desco solid-state electronic equipment is compact and rugged but
should be treated as sensitive electronic equipment. With proper
installation and a continued preventive maintenance program you
will ensure the proper performance of the unit.

Needle
valve

Air supply
conection

Figure 3. Airflow adjustment valve.

Theory of Operation

The Ion Python and Neutralizing Hand gun employ high voltage
AC to create a balanced ion field. AC systems utilize emitters
that are switched rapidly between positive and negative high

voltage, usually at the power line frequency (50/60 Hz). The

emitter is located at the end of the nozzle. This emitter pro duces

large amounts of positive and negative ions, which mix with the

air supply and create a highly effective neutralizing field. Any
material within this field will be neutralized rapidly. The air nozzles
also eliminate contamination by dislodging dust and debris
which is attracted to a material’s surface by static charges. Once
static charges are neutralized, dust particles and other forms of
contamination are freed and carried away by the air stream. Desco

ionizers meet the ANSI/ESD S20.20 minimum recommended

technical requirement range of less than ±50 volts voltage offset

tested in accordance with ANSI EOS/ESD S3.1. Air Nozzle

Ionizers provide ±20 volt balance.

Maintenance

“As with all ionizers, periodic maintenance will be needed to
provide optimum performance.” (Reference: IEC 61340-5-2:1
paragraph 5.2.9).

The frequency of monitoring ionizers really depends on how and

where they are used. Since the majority of them use a fan to

transport the ions to the working area, the cleanliness of the air
directly affects their performance over time and how often the
emitters should be cleaned.

EIA-625 recommends checking ionizers every 6 months, but
this may not be suitable for many programs particularly since an

out-of-balance may exist for months before it is checked again.
ANSI/ESD S20.20 paragraph 6.1.3.1 Compliance Verification
Plan Requirement states: “Test equipment shall be selected to

make measurements of appropriate properties of the technical

requirements that are incorporated into the ESD

And paragraph 6.1.3.2. Compliance Verification Plan Guidance

states: “In addition to internal audits, external audits (Organization
and supplier of ESDS items) should be performed to ensure
compliance with planned requirements. Verifications should
include routine checks of the Technical Requirements in the Plan.

The frequency of verification checks should be based on the
control item usage, its durability and associated risk of failure.”

Under normal conditions, the ionizer will attract dirt and dust
(especially on the emitter electrodes). To maintain optimum

performance, cleaning must be performed on a regular basis. The

electrodes should be cleaned at least every six months. However,

more frequent cleaning may be required if used in environments
with more contaminants.

program plan.”

TB-2079 Page 2 of 4

DESCO EAST - One Colgate Way, Canton, MA 02021-1407 • [phone] • Fax [phone] • Web Site: Desco.com

DESCO WEST - 3651 Walnut Avenue, Chino, CA 91710 • [phone] • Fax [phone]

© 2010 DESCO INDUSTRIES INC.

Employee Owned