Electrostatic discharge sensitive (ESDS) equipment susceptibility to welding generated electromagnetic fields

Concerns regarding damage to electrostatic discharge sensitive (ESDS) equipment, as a result of electromagnetic fields generated by welding processes have been raised. The concern that electromagnetic fields generated during the welding process could damage ESDS equipment is quite real. Guidance for welding in the vicinity of ESDS equipment was required by shipbuilders in order to avoid expensive and time-consuming removal of ESDS equipment prior to welding. In this article, the damage to ESDS equipment from welding generated electromagnetic fields is evaluated. Analysis showed that welding in the vicinity of ESDS equipment is not anticipated to cause damage to internal electronics. Guidelines were developed for welding in the vicinity of ESDS equipment.