Sensitive electronic components require specialized packaging to protect them from moisture during storage, handling and transportation. Moisture damage can lead to product failure that sometimes isn’t evident until the device is in use. Proper packaging ensures your delicate electronics arrive in as-shipped condition and helps prevent costly rework and product recalls.
Edco Supply Corporation has over 60 years of experience providing specialized packaging materials for the electronics industry. We understand the importance of protecting delicate and valuable electronic components from moisture and provide tailored solutions for manufacturers across the U.S. and Canada.
The Core Component: Moisture Barrier Bags (MBBs)
Electronic devices can be exposed to high humidity levels during overseas shipping or in between manufacturing processes. Moisture barrier bags are heat-sealable bags designed with several layers of specialized materials to reduce Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate (MVTR). They are versatile packaging solutions and can be customized to meet various requirements, from bespoke sizes and thicknesses to custom printing.
The layers act like a Faraday cage, with specialized aluminum film and static dissipative materials distributing electrical charges across its conductive surface. This shields the interior against both moisture and electrostatic discharge (ESD). MBBs are a crucial component for moisture protection, providing a sealed, waterproof and static-safe environment for your products.
Essential Additives: Desiccants and Humidity Indicator Cards
Desiccants and humidity indicator cards are key to creating a robust moisture protection system for your valuable components. These components add an extra layer of protection to MBB packaging, absorbing trapped moisture and providing clear information for inspections.
While MBBs are designed to keep moisture out, desiccants reduce the relative humidity and prevent condensation inside the bag. Desiccants like bentonite clay or silica gel absorb moisture inside the bag before sealing, preventing corrosion. The amount of desiccants necessary will vary depending on the bag’s interior surface area. Some desiccants can also be baked and reused.
Humidity indicator cards (HICs) help you determine when products have been exposed to moisture and humidity. The cards are printed with moisture-sensitive spots that change color when moisture and humidity have surpassed recommended storage levels. HICs allow for an immediate visual inspection to ensure moisture control measures are effective.
The Standard Operating Procedure: A 3-Step Sealing Process
Following the proper sealing process is crucial to providing the maximum protection for your electronic devices. MBBs, desiccants and humidity indicator cards are useful tools, but improper sealing can compromise their protective properties.
The standard sealing process for shipping electronics in MBBs is as follows:
- Assemble the kit: Place the sensitive electronic device inside the MBB along with the correctly sized desiccant packet and a humidity indicator card.
- Seal the environment: Use a vacuum sealer to remove all ambient air and moisture before heat-sealing the bag completely shut.
- Add physical protection: Place the sealed MBB inside a rigid, properly cushioned outer shipping box to protect it from physical shock and vibration.
Achieving Total Protection Through a Complete System
Edco is your trusted supplier of ESD flexible packaging tested to any industry standard that can be printed with or without an ESD warning symbol. We have a comprehensive inventory of packaging materials for sensitive electronic devices, fast turnaround times and custom solutions. Contact us online or call us at 646-212-0884 today for superior moisture-protective packaging.
