Triboelectrification in woodworking: influence of machining parameters on surface charges in planing, shaping, and sanding

Abstract

Triboelectrification occurs when two materials touch and separate, causing electrons to flow and generate electrical charges. In woodworking, this plays a crucial role, as the interaction between various tools and the wood itself can result in significant electric surface charges. This investigation explored the interaction between triboelectric activation occurring in woodworking processes like planing, shaping and sanding and processing parameters such as feed speed, rotation speed or cutting depth. The primary objective was to identify the specific processing conditions that most significantly contribute to triboelectric charge generation. Despite previous studies, there remains a lack of comprehensive understanding regarding the combined effects of machining parameters on triboelectric chargeing in different woodworking processes. Results showed that planers and shapers created negatively charged surfaces, while sanding led to positively charged surfaces. The charge varied with different machining parameters. Specifically, cutting depth had the most significant impact, followed by feed and cutting speed. The higher cutting depth and cutting speed reduced the surface charge on all machines, but increasing feed speed decreased the surface charge on planers and shapers while it increased after sanding. These insights provide a comprehensive understanding of the triboelectric phenomena, which is essential for optimising woodworking operations and mitigating electrostatic effects.