ABB’s manufacturing facility in Napier has been designing and producing power conversion technology, including Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) systems and power conditioners, for nearly 20 years. These systems are essential for maintaining stable power in factories and AI data centres, preventing interruptions caused by power fluctuations or outages. As global demand grows for dependable power protection and conversion systems to support data centres, it is important for ABB to ensure their product is reliable to avoid costly disruptions to operations.

Electrostatic discharge (ESD) posed a hidden but significant risk to ABB’s Napier facility, where 1,175 square metres of bare concrete flooring required upgrading to an ESD-controlling system. Everyday foot traffic and equipment movement can generate electrostatic charges, potentially damaging sensitive electronic components or causing product faults that only become apparent later in service. To protect product reliability, ABB implemented a comprehensive ESD control system, including specialist footwear and conductive flooring to safely dissipate electrostatic charges.

Gerflor GTI EL5 Connect interlocking tiles were selected to meet the performance needs, achieving an electrical resistance below 109 ohms and maintaining electrostatic charges below 100 volts. The lower resistance level supports the rapid dissipation of electrostatic charges, helping to protect sensitive electrical equipment. Long-term conductive performance is achieved through carbon-coated particles distributed throughout the full thickness of each tile, combined with a hardwearing conductive surface treatment and backing.

The interlocking design was also central to the selection, allowing the tiles to be installed loose-laid without adhesives. Designed to withstand heavy foot traffic and wheeled loads, the robust tiles are well suited to demanding industrial environments.

The installation was completed in stages to minimise disruption. Conductive copper strips and grounding points electrically connected the tiles to ground, creating a fully grounded system. Vinyl ramp transitions were installed where floor levels changed to improve safety and accessibility, while electrostatic discharge stations at each entry point allowed staff to safely discharge accumulated static before entering the area.

Facilities like the one ABB has in Napier, which produce reliable and critical electrical equipment, require a complete electrostatic discharge (ESD) control system. Conductive flooring plays an important role in this system by preventing the build-up of static charges, alongside other ESD control measures that support safe and effective performance. Gerflor GTI EL5 Connect tiles meet these requirements while offering fast installation, easy maintenance, underfoot comfort and the durability needed for demanding industrial environments.