Desco 12660 Statfree Conductive Foam High Density X-Linked, 1/4", 24" X 35"
Desco 12660 — Statfree Conductive Foam High Density X-Linked, 1/4" × 24" × 35"
The Desco 12660 Statfree is a conductive high-density cross-linked polyethylene foam sheet for ESD-safe lead insertion packaging. Component leads are inserted directly into the foam to hold them in position during storage, kitting, and transport. The conductive cross-linked construction brings all inserted leads to equipotential, eliminating potential differences between terminals that could cause electrostatic discharge. The foam is corrosion-resistant and will not affect the solderability of device leads over storage life. Low tribocharging formulation minimizes static generation during insertion and extraction. Lead-free RoHS compliant.
Note: This foam sheet weighs approximately 0.50 lb but ships at a dimensional weight of approximately 11 lb due to its size. Shipping costs are calculated on dimensional weight.
Key Specifications
| SKU / Part Number | 12660 |
| Series | Statfree Conductive Foam |
| Dimensions | 1/4 in × 24 in × 35 in (.25 in × 24 in × 35 in) |
| Material | High density cross-linked polyethylene (X-linked) conductive foam |
| ESD Classification | Conductive |
| Tribocharging | Low tribocharging (antistatic formulation) |
| Corrosion Resistance | Corrosion resistant — will not affect solderability of device leads |
| Primary Application | Lead insertion packaging for ICs, connectors, and leaded components |
| Actual Weight | ~0.50 lb (ships at ~11 lb dimensional weight) |
| Compliance | RoHS compliant (lead-free) |
| Vendor | Desco Industries |
Key Features
- Conductive Lead Insertion Foam: Component leads are inserted directly into the foam for storage, kitting, and shipping. The conductive matrix brings all inserted terminals to equipotential, preventing potential differences between leads that could cause ESD damage.
- Cross-Linked High Density Construction: X-linked polyethylene foam provides uniform cell structure and consistent insertion resistance across the sheet, ensuring repeatable lead retention force without deforming leads.
- Corrosion Resistant — Will Not Affect Solderability: Foam chemistry is formulated to be non-corrosive to device leads during storage, preserving solderability for downstream assembly processes.
- Low Tribocharging (Antistatic): Minimizes static charge generation during lead insertion and extraction, reducing risk of ESD events at the point of handling.
- 24" × 35" Sheet: Large format sheet for custom cutting to tray inserts, component board liners, or standard-size packaging configurations.
- RoHS Compliant (Lead-Free).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is conductive foam used for in ESD packaging?
Conductive foam is used primarily for lead insertion packaging — the leads of ICs, connectors, and other leaded components are pushed directly into the foam. The conductive matrix holds leads in position and brings all terminals to the same electrical potential (equipotential bonding), eliminating the voltage differences between leads that can cause electrostatic discharge damage during storage and transport. It is not a worksurface mat and does not function as a path-to-ground in the same way as ESD bench mats.
Will the 12660 foam corrode or damage component leads during storage?
No. The Desco 12660 is specifically formulated to be corrosion-resistant and will not affect the solderability of device leads, even during extended storage periods. This is a critical requirement for ESD-safe lead insertion foam — some lower-quality conductive foams use formulations that can degrade lead finishes over time.
Why does this foam ship at a higher weight than its actual weight?
The 12660 sheet is 24" × 35" × 1/4" — a large, low-density item that occupies significant shipping volume relative to its actual weight of approximately 0.50 lb. Carriers calculate shipping cost based on dimensional weight (package volume ÷ dimensional factor) when it exceeds actual weight. This sheet ships at approximately 11 lb dimensional weight, which is reflected in the shipping cost at checkout.
