I just finished reading a long article on static electricity in PVC ductwork:
With some sometimes tortuous explanations, the author discusses the issue of static electricity generation in ductwork. He uses logic, basic physics, and some equations to describe electron density, migration, and grounding within typical 4" PVC ducting attached to dust collectors. He concludes that it is effectively impossible for the static charge inside the duct to cause a spark, combustion, or explosion within the flowing air and entrained wood chips. I think he said (I read it a few minutes at a time, when time allowed) that it is entirely possible to receive a static shock from the outside of the ducting.
I started reading because I'm wanting to install some 4" PVC ducting on my (eventual) dust collector. But in forums and YouTube presentations I keep seeing wires wrapped spiral-fashion around PVC ducts; references to wires strung down the insides of PVC ducts; screws driven through the PVC duct walls at 4" spacing; and even a case of copper tape stuck to the length of the ducting, inside, and grounded at the joints. (Makes one imagine a horizontal Van de Graaff generator working there in the garage.)
So, can anyone recall and describe a personal experience with a static shock, fire, or explosion from his or her own PVC ducting?
Thanks,
With some sometimes tortuous explanations, the author discusses the issue of static electricity generation in ductwork. He uses logic, basic physics, and some equations to describe electron density, migration, and grounding within typical 4" PVC ducting attached to dust collectors. He concludes that it is effectively impossible for the static charge inside the duct to cause a spark, combustion, or explosion within the flowing air and entrained wood chips. I think he said (I read it a few minutes at a time, when time allowed) that it is entirely possible to receive a static shock from the outside of the ducting.
I started reading because I'm wanting to install some 4" PVC ducting on my (eventual) dust collector. But in forums and YouTube presentations I keep seeing wires wrapped spiral-fashion around PVC ducts; references to wires strung down the insides of PVC ducts; screws driven through the PVC duct walls at 4" spacing; and even a case of copper tape stuck to the length of the ducting, inside, and grounded at the joints. (Makes one imagine a horizontal Van de Graaff generator working there in the garage.)
So, can anyone recall and describe a personal experience with a static shock, fire, or explosion from his or her own PVC ducting?
Thanks,