When working with sensitive electronic components, such as PC building, specially designed and certified anti-static bench mats are used (also known as ESD mats), to reduce the risk of damage by static build-up. These anti static mats are not for cutting, but have a surface designed to dissipate static charges. An earth or grounding stud is provided for additional protection and is typically used to connect an anti-static wrist strap.
We offer a selection of anti-static and ESD mats designed to meet various workbench requirements, from light-duty to heavy-duty applications. Our product range includes mats with dissipative properties tailored for static control. Available in several sizes, thicknesses, and materials, these mats are suitable for various work environments, including electronics assembly areas, laboratories, and PC repair stations.
ESD mats (Electrostatic Discharge mats) are specialised surfaces designed to protect sensitive electronic components from damage caused by electrostatic discharge. These mats provide a dissipative (or partly conductive) surface that safely channels static charges away from components and towards a grounding point, thereby reducing the risk of electrostatic damage.
Typically, ESD mats are made from materials that either dissipate or conduct static electricity, making them essential for workspaces where handling of static-sensitive devices—such as in electronics assembly, repair, or testing—is common. A static dissipative (or partly conductive) surface on the mat gradually removes static charges, whereas a fully conductive surface would give rapid dissipation, which might lead to a damage due to the sudden current flow.
Using ESD mats on a workbench provides a controlled surface that protects electrical components and enhances the workspace's overall static control. Read more about ESD mats and how they are certified.
Yes, we offer a selection of ESD mats specifically designed for use on workbenches. These bench mats are ideal for environments where static-sensitive electronic components are handled regularly, such as electronics assembly stations, laboratories, and repair workspaces.
Our ESD bench mats come in different sizes and materials to fit various bench setups and are crafted to offer dissipative and conductive properties. For added safety, many of our mats include grounding studs for secure connections and are compatible with anti-static wrist straps to protect users and components from electrostatic discharge.
Whether you need a standard anti-static mat for general use or a mat tailored to a specific work surface, our range has options to suit your needs.
Yes, grounding your workbench is essential when working with ESD-sensitive components. Without grounding, static electricity can build up on surfaces and equipment, potentially causing damage to electronic components when discharged. ESD mats used on workbenches are typically designed with a grounding stud that allows them to be connected to earth, safely directing any static charges away from sensitive devices.
For effective static control, it’s recommended that the ESD mat and the operator (via an anti-static wrist strap) be connected to a common grounding point. This setup ensures that the work surface and the person handling components are at the same potential, reducing the risk of electrostatic discharge.
Grounding your workbench and ESD mat is a simple yet vital step in protecting your electronic components and maintaining a safe and controlled work environment.
When it comes to creating an electrostatic protected workspace, it’s crucial to understand the differences between antistatic mats or ESD solutions. There is a wide range of anti-static products available, each designed to protect sensitive electrical components from the damage electrostatic discharge can cause.
Anti static mats are typically made from either rubber or vinyl, serving as a protective barrier for any electronic device or electrical equipment. These mats effectively reduce or neutralise static buildup on surfaces, helping to safeguard circuits and other delicate parts. By contrast, ESD bench mats often offer additional benefits, such as integrated grounding points and enhanced durability. Their specialised design makes them ideal for workstations handling components prone to static damage.
Whether you choose antistatic mats or ESD bench mats, ensuring your area is properly grounded and configured is vital. Both options help maintain a controlled environment, reducing risks and extending the lifespan of sensitive electrical components in your workspace.
The best options are dissipative mats or conductive ESD mats that reliably draw the static away from ESD sensitive components. Look for a range of anti static mats designed for electronic equipment to ensure maximum electrostatic discharge control.
Yes. An ESD table mat helps create a dedicated work station for mat work, ensuring esd safe handling of sensitive components. It’s one of the most effective ways to protect equipment from static discharge during everyday tasks like soldering or PCB assembly.
Dissipative mats gradually draw the static charge away, making them ideal for long-term handling of ESD sensitive devices. Conductive mats, meanwhile, rapidly transfer charges to ground. The choice depends on how quickly you need to eliminate static and the nature of the electronic equipment you’re handling.
Yes. Using a wrist strap or anti static strap in conjunction with esd workbench mats creates a comprehensive esd safe system. Both the work mat and strap should connect to a common ground to protect sensitive electronics effectively.
Absolutely. ESD grounding mats are designed to turn almost any surface into an anti-static esd-ready work station. As long as you have a proper mat esd grounding connection, these mats can be used to safely handle sensitive components and protect equipment from electrostatic discharge.
Many esd workbench mats are made from heat resistant materials and feature surfaces that are easy to clean. When selecting from a range of anti static mats, check the product specifications to ensure heat tolerance and maintenance requirements meet your needs.
A good esd table mat offers flexibility: it’s easy to clean, heat resistant, and has dependable anti-static esd properties. These features make it ideal for diverse settings—ranging from electronics assembly lines to hobbyist workbenches.
Beyond the work mat, additional items like a wrist band, a reliable ground cord, and an anti static strap significantly boost esd protection. Together, they ensure any static discharge is quickly and safely routed away from esd sensitive devices.
Cherwell House
Farm Road
Buckingham Road Industrial Estate
Brackley
Northants NN13 7AW
Rhino Innovation Ltd are wholesalers and retailers of cutting mats and workbench protection mats, workshop cutting tools and metal workbenches. Rhino as a cutting mat brand has been established since 2005 and grown into a leading supplier of workplace innovation products.
Cherwell House
Farm Road
Buckingham Road Industrial Estate
Brackley
Northants NN13 7AW
PLEASE NOTE: We only send FREE samples to business addresses within the UK. Please email sales@rhinocuttingmat.co.uk if you are outside the UK and are interested in specific samples of our cutting mats