Copper Woven Sheet - A Novel Solution to Dissipate Static Charges in Electrical Machines

Abstract

In industries, revenue losses are minimized based on the continuous running of electrical machines for a long time without unwanted breakdowns. Electrical breakdowns cost millions of USD to heavy industries every year. When machines operate, static charges start accumulating on the shaft’s surface and eventually reach the (breakdown) threshold level if not properly grounded. This phenomenon results in the electrical breakdown of machine and it is also a basis of human causalities. Two conventional methods, i.e., Carbon Brush Method and Bristle Brush Method, dissipate these charges, but they last only between 6-14 days. This paper unveils a novel way of dissipating these charges to provide a convenient and long-term solution. To keep the developed voltage due to the accumulation of static charges to a negligible level, constant provision of the conductive copper woven sheet is ensured around the shaft. When the voltage starts rising after some time due to the excessive use of copper sheet, a fresh part of the sheet is automatically rolled on the shaft without stopping the machine. This phenomenon restricts the voltage level to a bearable limit, and electrical breakdown is prevented. Furthermore, this way is cheaper than the conventional methods and avoid wear and tear of the shaft’s surface due to less friction. The proposed method is also a safer approach because it is free of human interaction with the machine due to actuators’ use. It decreases the chances of occupational deaths of workers caused by electrification.