Resolving Static Electricity issue

[TheLamber]

First post here. I just wanted to say thanks to everyone for sharing their knowledge and experiences. So I’m trying to wrap up our sim build, but I’m trying to solve my static electricity issue.

My hitting mat sits on top of our putting surface. The putting surface is comprised of 3 layers. Polystyrene base for the contours, molded plastic tiles, a high density foam liner, and then 5500 lbs of infill on top. We use a real tee turf for the hitting mat. It makes it really easy to move the mat to utilize the entire green.

After hitting 3-5 balls, you can feel the static electricity. My assumption is that the 4 layer distance between my feet and the ground doesn’t allow the static to dissipate because it can’t reach the ground. No matter how many balls you hit, when you’re done, you’re going to get shocked by the first metal thing you touch connected to the ground.

I thought about running a grounding rod or wire up through everything to try and solve the problem, but I'm not quite sure how well it will work.

Does anyone have experience with this? I did an extensive search and didn’t find much outside of the static issues with frying equipment. I’m trying to eliminate frying the guy hitting balls. 😂. Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks!

[Venom]

Grounding wire would probably work. You could also try a humidifier.

[a98cr125]

Most people just use a spray static guard on their turf if they have any issues with that. Should work fine.

[Brettster]

Let us know what worked for you TheLamber ? I suspect the grounding wire would be your best/permanent solution. The spray / static guard would have to be continually applied, I would think while you're having the static issue. I know it's a pain, as I have it quite bad in my basement where I play vinyl records - the records themselves will shock you!

[GungHoGolf]

I've heard, but can't confirm, that a layer of aluminum foil under the turf (using several rolls of the largest size foil), but above any sublayer, that is then connected to a ground with a wire, will do the trick. I think it may be the Full Swing all-in-one systems that do that. Have been wanting to try it.

[ChrisLinks]

Possible solution here. https://www.americanfloormats.com/st...oaAn8jEALw_wcB

[Venom]

I may have to try that. Sounds better than a case of static guard. Even though the humidifier also works and it helps my allergies. Lol.

[retired_18]

i just have a spray bottle of water and it seems to just fine. spray whole floor lightly. i have artificial grass over floor

[joeslat]

In case anyone winds up here like I did looking for a solution, here is what worked for me: I used the grounding wire from a standard 12/2 electrical wire, pushed it under my mat about 2', and ran it out into the ground, and it completely solved the issue. (I was getting a surge that made my monitors go nuts about every 3 shots, then I hit 40 straight with no issue.) For a more permanent solution, I just ordered one of these: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...?ie=UTF8&psc=1

[David W]

I am glad I read this post. I am in the middle of my build and am in the process of laying a subfloor to level my area. After the plywood goes down, I will have 1" thick foam boards, then 1/2" gym mats, then turf. Before I lay the turf, I will run a bare copper wire grid work and connect it to a ground source. Hopefully that will eliminate any potential problem. Luckily, I have an extra roll of number 14 bare wire left over from wrapping my 6" PVC dust collection system in my wood shop. Wood dust travelling quickly through PVC can generate a very high static charge too. I am glad that I have on hand what I need to correct a future problem. I am also glad for the timing of reading this post. Most of all, I am very grateful for this forum, providing opportunities for us new guys to avoid potential problems.

Thank you all

[hierzn]

Hi guys
Just want to inform you that we had similar problem.
3 Simulators and 1 Puttview / Zenstage always went black for a second after we touch some metal (and /or wood)
We hat huge electric static issues we tried a rabbit metal mesh under the turf and grounded it, but it made thinks kinda worse.

we now put like 6-8kg of sand into the turf and now it looks very promising that everything works fine

the only (huge) disadvantage is that now some sand may stick on the golfballs and could reduce the duration of the impact screen