How to choose ESD dissipative bins and boxes correctly
Dissipative ESD containers protect electronic components from static charge during storage and in-plant transport. This guide explains the difference between dissipative and conductive plastics, the resistance values per DIN EN 61340-5-1, and how to select bins, trays and small-parts magazines.
View ESD binsDissipative or conductive - what is the difference?
ESD containers are made from plastics that discharge static in a controlled way. We distinguish dissipative and conductive materials. Both prevent charge from building on the surface and damaging sensitive components.
Dissipative containers have a surface resistance of roughly 10⁴ to 10¹¹ Ω and bleed charge away slowly and in a controlled manner. Conductive containers, often black from carbon filler, sit below 10⁴ Ω and add a shielding effect. For storing unprotected components inside an EPA, DIN EN 61340‑5‑1 applies.
Which container suits which application?
The choice depends on component size, sensitivity and handling. Small-parts bins suit picking and kitting, stackable lidded boxes suit transport and storage, and flat trays suit populated circuit boards.
- Dissipative: the standard for most storage and transport tasks inside the EPA.
- Conductive (black): for especially sensitive or unprotected semiconductors.
- Stackability and a uniform grid save space and ease transport.
- Lids and seals add protection against dust and mechanical damage.
- Check chemical and temperature resistance if cleaning or soldering happens nearby.
How are ESD containers tested and maintained?
Surface resistance drifts over time and with contamination. Periodic measurements with an ESD resistance meter and suitable electrodes confirm function and document the values for audits under DIN EN 61340‑5‑1.
- Check resistance periodically and record it in the test log.
- Retire damaged or heavily scratched containers.
- Label containers (dissipative/conductive) and store them separately.
- Use closed, shielding containers when transporting between EPAs.
Frequently asked questions
What does dissipative mean for ESD containers?
Dissipative containers have a surface resistance of roughly 10⁴ to 10¹¹ Ω and bleed static charge to ground slowly and in a controlled way, without discharging sensitive parts abruptly.
When do I need conductive instead of dissipative boxes?
Conductive, usually black containers below 10⁴ Ω add a shielding effect and suit especially sensitive or unprotected semiconductors and assemblies.
Does the container have to be grounded?
Inside the EPA the container should rest on a grounded, dissipative surface so charge can flow away. On an insulating surface a container can otherwise become a charge source itself.
How often should resistance be checked?
Surface resistance should be checked during periodic ESD audits, typically yearly or per the manufacturer, and recorded in the test log.
Looking for the right ESD containers?
We supply dissipative and conductive bins, trays and small-parts magazines for storage and in-plant transport - tested to DIN EN 61340-5-1.
Standard-tested
Containers meet the requirements of DIN EN 61340-5-1.
For every task
From open bins to conductive transport boxes.
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Surface resistance is testable and documentable.
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