The problem

FR4 glass epoxy laminate is widely used for fixtures, pallets, and tooling in electronics manufacturing due to its dimensional stability, strength, and machinability. However, FR4 is electrically insulating and can accumulate static charge during handling and component placement.

Conventional solutions rely on carbon-filled laminates or embedded grounding paths, which increase cost and limit machining flexibility.

The substrate

FR4 glass epoxy panels used for fixtures, pallets, and custom tooling, including machined surfaces, slots, and precision features.

Why replacement was not viable

• High cost of conductive or carbon-loaded FR4 materials
• Limited availability of ESD-specific laminate grades
• Complex fixturing designs already in use
• Downtime and requalification required for replacement

The ProShieldESD solution

ProShieldESD was applied as a thin, uniform coating to the working surfaces of FR4 panels. The two-part coating forms a continuous dissipative layer without affecting dimensional accuracy or machining tolerances.

The coating integrates easily with existing grounding schemes, providing controlled charge dissipation across fixture surfaces.

Performance outcome

• Stable surface resistance within the ESD dissipative range
• Uniform charge dissipation across machined surfaces
• No interference with fixture precision or tolerances
• Durable performance under repeated production cycles

Standards alignment

The converted FR4 fixtures support ESD control programs aligned with IEC 61340 and ANSI/ESD S20.20 requirements when properly grounded and integrated into controlled production environments.

Key benefits

• Converts standard FR4 into ESD-safe fixturing material
• Preserves machining flexibility and precision
• Reduces tooling replacement cost
• Easy to recoat or maintain if surfaces wear