Static and powder dispensing

[satexas]

I'm back into reloading after about a dozen years or so. I'm trying to load some .41 magnum using my new Chargemaster 1500 and a green plastic RCBS powder funnel. The powder is Unique. I'm noticing that a lot of powder is sticking inside the funnel and not dropping into the cases. That, plus some powder is also sticking to the inside of the clear swing-away cover on the Chargemaster. My house is at 52% humidity. I cannot trust that each case is getting the correct charge with this happening. What do you folks do when static is a problem? Is there some kind of static wipes or other trick? Or do you just wait for a better day?

 

[Blue68f100]

Once used Drier sheets (Bounty) are the answer.. Just wipe every thing down with them. You can also run some graphite through the dispenser and funnel. Once it gets a good coating it will be fine.

 

[Swampman]

Once used Drier sheets (Bounty) are the answer.. Just wipe every thing down with them. You can also run some graphite through the dispenser and funnel. Once it gets a good coating it will be fine.

This.
I've tried anti static sprays but the residue they leave is as bad as the static.

 

[satexas]

Thanks a bunch! I just finished dispensing a loading block full of cases. You were right! My once used dryer sheets worked like a champ! Once I wiped all the surfaces down, the powder flowed like water into the cases! I've been learning a lot from you folks, and I just knew this was the place to subscribe to when I got back onto reloading! Thanks again, and have a Merry Christmas!

 

[rfwobbly]

The powder is Unique.

Unique is known to bridge easily in funnels and other tight areas. I'm glad the static wipes worked, but you'll need to stay on top of that issue even during low static seasons.
.

 

[cfullgraf]

To add, after a period of use, a coating of graphite like material from the powder will build up on the funnel and the static will become less of an issue.

So, when you see a black coating building up on the funnel, don't wash it to remove the coating or you will be back to having static issues again.

 

[Bart B.]

Some reloaders have an environment that requires a "static free work station." It's grounded (connected) to you and the metal parts of your tools so they're all at the same voltage level; no static discharge when you touch anything its grounded to. They're available at most electronic tools and parts stores.

http://visihow.com/Create_a_static-free_work_environment

 

[Swampman]

FYI, used dryer sheets will also get rid of the static in your case tumbler and help keep your media clean.

Just cut them into strips and toss in the tumbler with your cases.

 

[Varminterror]

Wrap a coil of copper wire around the can of your dispenser, solder to a bit of copper electrical wire (for flexibility), and run the wire to the ground of your outlet. Never a static issue again.

Bounty sheets work, wipe things down before and during, but they do "wear out." Grounding it never wears out.