Static Electricity in Folding: What It Is, Why It’s a Problem, and How to Fix It
What is static electricity?
Static electricity is a stationary electrical charge that builds up on an insulating,
non-conductive material when there’s an imbalance of charges between two surfaces.
You see it in lightning, in hair that stands on end—and in the bindery when sheets
move quickly through metal machinery.
During folding, continuous contact and friction between paper and the machine can
create significant charge—especially in warm, dry conditions (high heat / low humidity).
Static undermines productivity in three areas of the folding line:
- Feeding: sheets cling together, so doubles or multiples feed at once.
- Folding: charge in the fold rollers prevents the sheet from fully
reaching the deflector, causing short folds and other defects.
- Delivery: uneven stacking, product clinging, and painful operator shocks
when touching the folder.
What we recommend
Active static elimination bars
Our most versatile solution is an ionizing bar that neutralizes positive and negative
charges between materials. Two popular options:
Sizing and installation are straightforward and can typically be handled in-house.
See all static control products.
Slik Spray anti-static treatment
Slik Spray
is a water-based, environmentally safe, microscopic treatment that reduces static buildup and
lowers friction to near zero—without sticky residue.
Common uses include:
- Reducing friction on paper cutter beds
- Cutting drag in folding operations
- Cleaning and reducing glue adhesion on knives
- Repelling paper dust and ink on impression/transfer cylinders
Other passive options
We also stock copper tinsel,
static string,
and more to supplement active ionization where needed.
Have questions or want help choosing a setup? Visit
updateltd.com/static-control.
