Non-sparking in the context of hand tools is defined as metals/tools that do not generate sparks (or cold sparks) when the tool hits or strikes another metal or concrete. They are commonly Copper-based alloys and are used to manufacture tools that do not generate sparks and are hence commonly referred to as non sparking.
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To begin, non-sparking tools, as their name implies, do not produce (hot) sparks. As a result, they are ideal for jobs involving flammable materials. When working in facilities/areas containing flammable solids, liquids, or gases regular steel tools cannot be used. If a steel tool slips/strikes equipment it will generate a hot spark – which can lead to a fire. Therefore, hand tools commonly made of copper-based alloy like Copper Titanium, Aluminum Bronze, Beryllium Copper or Copper-Nickel Alloys are referred to as non sparking tools.
Brass is primarily a copper-based alloy, for any material or alloy to be classified as non-sparking – it has to be tested and certified as per relevant testing Standards (Read more about IS safety standard). Fundamentally, brass may be non-sparking depending on the composition. However, if it is not certified or tested - It should not be used. Secondly Brass is a soft material, making hand tools of brass will not serve the desired purpose of Non-Sparking Hand Tools – they will bend or wear out very quickly thereby defeating the purpose.
Non sparking tools are made up from copper based alloys like copper-titanium alloys, copper-nickel alloys, copper-aluminum alloys (or Aluminum Bronze), bronze or brass. The tools made from these materials are softer than conventional steel tools since they are made of non-ferrous metals (primarily Copper). However, they have one advantage that no other tool can match i.e., they produce cold sparks with little heat and thus do not ignite any flammable material present in the environment.
Pure Aluminum or an aluminum-based alloy (where primary metal is Al) are NOT classified under Non Sparking materials. Whereas Copper-based alloys containing aluminum commonly known as Aluminum Bronze, Aluminum Copper is Non-Sparking. Aluminum Bronze contains about ~ 11% Aluminum, ~ 5% Iron, 10% Nickel, and Remaining Copper.
Any material that produces frictional sparks when struck against a hard metal surface or concrete/stone cannot be classified as Non Sparking or suitable for use in flammable environments. Stainless Steel if a ferrous-based alloy and will produce sparking when struck and hence cannot be classified as Non-Sparking. Test certificates for any alloy should be validated before classifying them as non-sparking.
Industries, where there is a high risk of explosion or fire, should use non-sparking tools. Industries that process, manufacture, store or transport flammable solids (propellants, explosives, ammonium perchlorate etc.), liquids (MSD, ethane etc) or gases (LPG, Hydrogen etc) have to take additional safety precautions as they are working in a high-risk environment. Non-Sparking hand tools are one such important safety measure that reduces the possibility of spark and therefore fire. Thus, industries like Oil & Gas, chemicals and pharmaceuticals, Paint Manufacturing, Power Plants, Explosives should make use of non-sparking tools. (Read how an Oil depot caught fire because of use of steel tools)
Non-sparking tools exhibit unique property which makes them ideal for using in a flammable environment. Sparks created by iron and steel hand tools are a dangerous source of ignition when used near flammable materials. Non sparking tools made of Copper-based alloys like Copper Titanium, Aluminum Bronze or Copper Beryllium (Hazards of Beryllium) will keep you safe where this threat exists.
The Spark is being referred to here as a mechanical or frictional spark. Copper - because of its excellent thermal and electrical properties does not produce frictional spark, whereas copper can produce electrical sparks. Non-Sparking Hand Tools should not be confused with Insulated Tools.
No. Galvanized steel is not considered as non sparking material or alloy. It will produce frictional sparks when stuck with another metal/hard surface.
Non Sparking Tools are also sometimes referred to as non magneticbecause they allow magnetic fields to pass through them without being affected by them. Copper Titanium and Copper Beryllium allow complete magnetic fields to pass through them and can be classified as non magnetic. However, Aluminum Bronze contains two metals Iron and Nickel both of which demonstrate magnetic properties, therefore, when it comes to using non sparking tools in non magnetic applications use only copper titanium or beryllium copper tools. Aluminum bronze is not completely non-magnetic and can interfere with the magnetic field (Video of Copper titanium and Aluminum Bronze subjected to a magnetic field).
There are three major standards defined globally that test and determine whether an alloy can be categorized non-sparking or not. First is the Indian Standard i.e. IS -() which was constituted on January 29, and later re-affirmed in . The second is FM Approval (USA) i.e. FM . Third is BAM Certification by an institute in Germany. All three standards primarily check the spark generation capability of the material/alloy. The certification of any one or more of the standards should be acceptable. (Read how an alloy is tested for Non Sparking properties as per IS Standard)
Hand tools made of iron or steel can emit sparks and therefore should NOT be used. Only certified or tested alloys for Non-Sparking properties should be used. Common Hand tools like spanners, wrenches, screwdrivers, hammers, slogging spanners should be used based on the torque range and type of Nuts, bolts etc. (download a catalog of over standard Non-sparking Hand Tools). If standards tools do not do the job, you can get customized Non-Sparking Hand Tools designed and manufactured based on your needs. Never use fabricated or ‘jugaad’ tools when working with flammable gases or explosives because safety is paramount.
The primary factor that contributes for a metal to be non sparking is the fundamental property of Copper. Copper has excellent thermal and electrical properties and can therefore transfer heat quickly. When a friction spark occurs between copper and a hard surface the energy generated at the point of friction is quickly absorbed by copper allowing only cold sparks to be generated – thus making the alloy non sparking. Alloying elements like Titanium, Beryllium are added to strengthen copper.
Non Sparking Tools as the name suggests do not produce sparks (or cold sparks) that are recommended to be used in flammable environments this helps protect the safety of the plant, equipment and most importantly – human life. Hence, they are called safety tools. Earlier, many companies used to buy non-sparking to complete a safety audit point, but used steel tools in the field. The increase in fire accidents and with loss of life, companies are now mandating the use of Non-sparking hand tools.
There, certain recommended practices for use of Non-Sparking Hand Tools which are as follows:
Non-Sparking Hand Tools do not exhibit the strength characteristics of steel tools because they are primarily copper based tools. While Non-Sparking tools are strong and durable they cannot take the abuse that a steel tool can take. When tools are used as per recommended practices then they can give very good life. For example, a qualifying torque of a steel wrench of 25 mm has a torque rating of 496 Nm (as per IS Standards). A Copper Titanium Non-Sparking tool will pass that standard and will probably break at 900~ Nm with is ~50% more than the qualifying torque, whereas a steel tool can take up ~ Nm (~200%). Overloading of Non-Sparking tools should not be done at any cost. It can not only lead to the failure of tools but can injure the operator or damage the equipment. Watch a video of how copper titanium non-sparking tools are torque tested.
Over time the tools will undergo wear and tear. Always inspect your tools before use for any chipping, damages etc. Do not use such tools as they can break during use.
After you have used the tools, there is a chance that chemicals, solvents, powders etc which are flammable in nature have got stuck to the tools – this is not safe. Always clean your tools with dry cotton cloth to remove anything that may be stuck, this will also increase the longevity of the tools.
After use, keep the tools properly is a dedicated toolbox or a tool bag so that they are not lost among other steel tools or equipment. It is highly recommended that heavier tools like pipe wrenches, or hammers be kept at the bottom and light duty tools like screwdrivers, pliers etc be kept on the top, this will not damage the tools and give long life.
Dispose of worn-out tools properly to an authorized recycle agent. For example, where beryllium copper tools are being used, after the end of life, the worn out tools should be given someone who is authorized or has the necessary safety equipment and technology to process beryllium alloys. Beryllium is carcinogen and can cause cancer. Copper titanium which is a safer one-to-one replacement to Beryllium Copper
Non-Sparking Hand Tools were first developed in the United States over 75 years ago, where they manufactured Copper Beryllium and Aluminum Bronze Non Sparking and tools. As the demand for Non-Sparking Tools increase a few companies in Europe started manufacturing and marketing these tools.
With the world recognizing the hazards and dangers of dealing with beryllium. Companies in the USA and Europe shifted to manufacturing only AlBr tools in their country. While there was a demand for Beryllium Copper tools and therefore all manufacturing of Beryllium Copper Non-Sparking tools shifted majorly to China.
Over the last two decades and with a shift of major manufacturing to China. Non-Sparking hand tools manufacturing also shifted to China. Majority of the companies get Non-Sparking tools manufactured under their brand name in China. Over the last decade, India has been added to the list as a manufacturer of Non-Sparking Hand Tools, with the launch a new alloy i.e. Copper Titanium. Non-Sparking hand tools of Copper Titanium are only made in India.
According to U.S. Department of Labor , Mine Safety and Health Administration “Acetylene forms explosive compounds with copper, brass, copper salts, mercury/mercury salts, silver/silver salts and nitric acid. Under no circumstances should acetylene gas come in contact with unalloyed copper, except in a torch. Any contact of acetylene with high-alloyed copper piping will generate copper acetylide, which is very reactive and may result in a violent explosion” All commonly know non-Sparking Hand tools i.e., Copper Titanium, Copper Beryllium and Aluminum Bronze have high copper content >85% which can be dangerous while working in environment containing acetylene. It is recommended to use Non-Sparking Tools with copper content less than 65% to avoid a reaction in case there is a leakage of acetylene gas.
1.What is the meaning of non-sparking?
Non-sparking in the context of hand tools is defined as metals/tools that do not generate sparks (or cold sparks) when the tool hits or strikes another metal or concrete. They are commonly Copper-based alloys and are used to manufacture tools that do not generate sparks and are hence commonly referred to as non sparking.
2.What are non-sparking tools?
To begin, non-sparking tools, as their name implies, do not produce (hot) sparks. As a result, they are ideal for jobs involving flammable materials. When working in facilities/areas containing flammable solids, liquids, or gases regular steel tools cannot be used. If a steel tool slips/strikes equipment it will generate a hot spark – which can lead to a fire. Therefore, hand tools commonly made of copper-based alloy like Copper Titanium, Aluminum Bronze, Beryllium Copper or Copper-Nickel Alloys are referred to as non sparking tools.
3.Is brass considered as a non sparking material?
Brass is primarily a copper-based alloy, for any material or alloy to be classified as non-sparking – it has to be tested and certified as per relevant testing Standards (Read more about IS safety standard). Fundamentally, brass may be non-sparking depending on the composition. However, if it is not certified or tested - It should not be used. Secondly Brass is a soft material, making hand tools of brass will not serve the desired purpose of Non-Sparking Hand Tools – they will bend or wear out very quickly thereby defeating the purpose.
4.Non sparking tools are made up from which material?
Copper Titanium Non Sparking Hand Tools
Non sparking tools are made up from copper based alloys like copper-titanium alloys, copper-nickel alloys, copper-aluminum alloys (or Aluminum Bronze), bronze or brass. The tools made from these materials are softer than conventional steel tools since they are made of non-ferrous metals (primarily Copper). However, they have one advantage that no other tool can match i.e., they produce cold sparks with little heat and thus do not ignite any flammable material present in the environment.
5.Why is aluminum NOT Non-Sparking?
Pure Aluminum or an aluminum-based alloy (where primary metal is Al) are NOT classified under Non Sparking materials. Whereas Copper-based alloys containing aluminum commonly known as Aluminum Bronze, Aluminum Copper is Non-Sparking. Aluminum Bronze contains about ~ 11% Aluminum, ~ 5% Iron, 10% Nickel, and Remaining Copper.
6.Does stainless steel come under non-sparking?
Any material that produces frictional sparks when struck against a hard metal surface or concrete/stone cannot be classified as Non Sparking or suitable for use in flammable environments. Stainless Steel if a ferrous-based alloy and will produce sparking when struck and hence cannot be classified as Non-Sparking. Test certificates for any alloy should be validated before classifying them as non-sparking.
7.Who should use tools that are non-sparking?
Industries, where there is a high risk of explosion or fire, should use non-sparking tools. Industries that process, manufacture, store or transport flammable solids (propellants, explosives, ammonium perchlorate etc.), liquids (MSD, ethane etc) or gases (LPG, Hydrogen etc) have to take additional safety precautions as they are working in a high-risk environment. Non-Sparking hand tools are one such important safety measure that reduces the possibility of spark and therefore fire. Thus, industries like Oil & Gas, chemicals and pharmaceuticals, Paint Manufacturing, Power Plants, Explosives should make use of non-sparking tools. (Read how an Oil depot caught fire because of use of steel tools)
8.Why use non sparking tools?
Non-sparking tools exhibit unique property which makes them ideal for using in a flammable environment. Sparks created by iron and steel hand tools are a dangerous source of ignition when used near flammable materials. Non sparking tools made of Copper-based alloys like Copper Titanium, Aluminum Bronze or Copper Beryllium (Hazards of Beryllium) will keep you safe where this threat exists.
9.Can copper generate a spark?
The Spark is being referred to here as a mechanical or frictional spark. Copper - because of its excellent thermal and electrical properties does not produce frictional spark, whereas copper can produce electrical sparks. Non-Sparking Hand Tools should not be confused with Insulated Tools.
10.Is galvanized steel considered non sparking material?
No. Galvanized steel is not considered as non sparking material or alloy. It will produce frictional sparks when stuck with another metal/hard surface.
11.Why are Non Sparking tools sometimes referred to as Non magnetic?
Non Sparking Tools are also sometimes referred to as non magnetic because they allow magnetic fields to pass through them without being affected by them. Copper Titanium and Copper Beryllium allow complete magnetic fields to pass through them and can be classified as non magnetic. However, Aluminum Bronze contains two metals Iron and Nickel both of which demonstrate magnetic properties, therefore, when it comes to using non sparking tools in non magnetic applications use only copper titanium or beryllium copper tools. Aluminum bronze is not completely non-magnetic and can interfere with the magnetic field (Video of Copper titanium and Aluminum Bronze subjected to a magnetic field).
12.Which standard is used for non-sparking tools?
There are three major standards defined globally that test and determine whether an alloy can be categorized non-sparking or not. First is the Indian Standard i.e. IS -() which was constituted on January 29, and later re-affirmed in . The second is FM Approval (USA) i.e. FM . Third is BAM Certification by an institute in Germany. All three standards primarily check the spark generation capability of the material/alloy. The certification of any one or more of the standards should be acceptable. (Read how an alloy is tested for Non Sparking properties as per IS Standard)
13.When working with flammable gases or explosive chemicals, what kind of tools should be used?
Hand tools made of iron or steel can emit sparks and therefore should NOT be used. Only certified or tested alloys for Non-Sparking properties should be used. Common Hand tools like spanners, wrenches, screwdrivers, hammers, slogging spanners should be used based on the torque range and type of Nuts, bolts etc. (download a catalog of over standard Non-sparking Hand Tools). If standards tools do not do the job, you can get customized Non-Sparking Hand Tools designed and manufactured based on your needs. Never use fabricated or ‘jugaad’ tools when working with flammable gases or explosives because safety is paramount.
14.What factors contribute to a metal to be non-sparking?
The primary factor that contributes for a metal to be non sparking is the fundamental property of Copper. Copper has excellent thermal and electrical properties and can therefore transfer heat quickly. When a friction spark occurs between copper and a hard surface the energy generated at the point of friction is quickly absorbed by copper allowing only cold sparks to be generated – thus making the alloy non sparking. Alloying elements like Titanium, Beryllium are added to strengthen copper.
15.Why non sparking tools are considered as safety tools?
Non Sparking Tools as the name suggests do not produce sparks (or cold sparks) that are recommended to be used in flammable environments this helps protect the safety of the plant, equipment and most importantly – human life. Hence, they are called safety tools. Earlier, many companies used to buy non-sparking to complete a safety audit point, but used steel tools in the field. The increase in fire accidents and with loss of life, companies are now mandating the use of Non-sparking hand tools.
16.What is the correct way to use non sparking tools?
Contact us to discuss your requirements of Non Sparking Tools Suppliers. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.
There, certain recommended practices for use of Non-Sparking Hand Tools which are as follows:
A. Follow the DO and DONTs.
Non-Sparking Hand Tools do not exhibit the strength characteristics of steel tools because they are primarily copper based tools. While Non-Sparking tools are strong and durable they cannot take the abuse that a steel tool can take. When tools are used as per recommended practices then they can give very good life. For example, a qualifying torque of a steel wrench of 25 mm has a torque rating of 496 Nm (as per IS Standards). A Copper Titanium non-sparking tool will pass that standard and will probably break at 900~ Nm with is ~50% more than the qualifying torque, whereas a steel tool can take up ~ Nm (~200%). Overloading of Non-Sparking tools should not be done at any cost. It can not only lead to the failure of tools but can injure the operator or damage the equipment. Watch a video of how copper titanium non-sparking tools are torque tested.
B. Check for damages, chipping or wear and tear
Over time the tools will undergo wear and tear. Always inspect your tools before use for any chipping, damages etc. Do not use such tools as they can break during use.
C. Keep Tools Clean and Dry
After you have used the tools, there is a chance that chemicals, solvents, powders etc which are flammable in nature have got stuck to the tools – this is not safe. Always clean your tools with dry cotton cloth to remove anything that may be stuck, this will also increase the longevity of the tools.
D. Maintain a tools box or a bag:
After use, keep the tools properly is a dedicated toolbox or a tool bag so that they are not lost among other steel tools or equipment. It is highly recommended that heavier tools like pipe wrenches, or hammers be kept at the bottom and light duty tools like screwdrivers, pliers etc be kept on the top, this will not damage the tools and give long life.
E. Dispose of your tools properly.
Dispose of worn-out tools properly to an authorized recycle agent. For example, where beryllium copper tools are being used, after the end of life, the worn out tools should be given someone who is authorized or has the necessary safety equipment and technology to process beryllium alloys. Beryllium is carcinogen and can cause cancer. Copper titanium which is a safer one-to-one replacement to Beryllium Copper
17. Which are the countries that manufacture Non-Sparking Tools?
Non-Sparking Hand Tools were first developed in the United States over 75 years ago, where they manufactured Copper Beryllium and Aluminum Bronze Non Sparking and tools. As the demand for Non-Sparking Tools increase a few companies in Europe started manufacturing and marketing these tools.
With the world recognizing the hazards and dangers of dealing with beryllium. Companies in the USA and Europe shifted to manufacturing only AlBr tools in their country. While there was a demand for Beryllium Copper tools and therefore all manufacturing of Beryllium Copper Non-Sparking tools shifted majorly to China.
Over the last two decades and with a shift of major manufacturing to China. Non-Sparking hand tools manufacturing also shifted to China. Majority of the companies get Non-Sparking tools manufactured under their brand name in China. Over the last decade, India has been added to the list as a manufacturer of Non-Sparking Hand Tools, with the launch a new alloy i.e. Copper Titanium. Non-Sparking hand tools of Copper Titanium are only made in India.
18. Can we use non-sparking tools for acetylene?
According to U.S. Department of Labor , Mine Safety and Health Administration “Acetylene forms explosive compounds with copper, brass, copper salts, mercury/mercury salts, silver/silver salts and nitric acid. Under no circumstances should acetylene gas come in contact with unalloyed copper, except in a torch. Any contact of acetylene with high-alloyed copper piping will generate copper acetylide, which is very reactive and may result in a violent explosion” All commonly know non-Sparking Hand tools i.e., Copper Titanium, Copper Beryllium and Aluminum Bronze have high copper content >85% which can be dangerous while working in environment containing acetylene. It is recommended to use Non-Sparking Tools with copper content less than 65% to avoid a reaction in case there is a leakage of acetylene gas.
19.Can we use non-sparking tools for electrical equipment maintenance?
No, you cannot use Non-Sparking Hand Tools with electrical equipment. Commonly misunderstood Non-Sparking Hand tools are used to prevent any frictional or mechanical sparks. Non Sparking tools are made of copper will conduct electricity. With electrical equipment you need Insulated tools to protect the user from electrical shocks.
“Non-sparking”, “spark reduced”, “spark-resistant” or “spark-proof” tools are names given to tools made of metals such as brass, bronze, Monel metal (copper-nickel alloy), copper-aluminum alloys (aluminum bronze), or copper-beryllium alloys (beryllium bronze).
Commonly used hand tools are often manufactured of steel alloys. Preferred “non-sparking” metals have less tensile strength than steels usually used to make tools. A lower tensile strength means the metal has less strength or resistance to tearing apart when stretched under test conditions. It also means that these tools are softer, wear down more quickly than ordinary steel tools, and have to be dressed more frequently.
Non-sparking tools also generate sparks sometimes referred to as “cold sparks”. These cold sparks have a low heat level and do not ignite carbon disulfide, which has the lowest ignition point of any substance known to man. Therefore while “non-sparking” tools may lower the risk of a spark, they do not eliminate the possibility of sparks. The name “non-sparking” is misleading because these tools are capable of producing a spark: the term “reduced-sparking tools” better describes these tools.
Non-metals like wood, leather, and plastic are suitable for some tools like shovels, scrapers or scoops and do not pose a friction spark hazard.
Non-sparking tools provide protection against fires and explosions in environments where there is a concern about sparks igniting flammable solvents, vapors, liquids, dust or residues. There are many standards and recommendations that have been published by OSHA (Occupational Health and Safety Administration) and NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) that advise the use of non-sparking tools in hazardous environments.
NOTE: It is important to assess each situation carefully and use the appropriate tools for the hazards that are present. In some cases, “non-sparking” tools may still be able to produce a spark. Contact the tool manufacturer and the producer of the flammable material (for example) for recommendations and more information.
Both “sparking” and “non-sparking” materials can cause ignition. Two types of hazards are associated with tools manufactured of either material:
Ignition by friction, with impact on each other or on other materials such as steel or concrete, in which an “ordinary” (mechanical or frictional) spark is generated. All tools can ignite flammable mixtures by sparks generated by friction or impact. However, this is true only when the generated spark is incendive: that means a spark that has to have enough heat content (i.e., enough mass and sufficiently high temperature) and has to last long enough to heat a flammable air-vapor mixture above its ignition temperature. This is more likely in the case of sparks formed when using a metal grinder that a spark generated when a hammer strikes some metal.
Ignition by a chemically-generated spark, caused by an impact between certain metals and some oxygen-containing substances (such as rust, which is iron oxide).
Follow the guidelines below to reduce the risk of explosion and fire.
Make sure all “non-sparking” tools are kept clean and free from ferrous or other contaminants, which may hamper the non-sparking properties.
Do not use non-sparking hand tools in direct contact with acetylene, which may form explosive acetylides, especially in the presence of moisture.
Use local or mechanical ventilation systems as appropriate to remove hazardous materials, dust, and vapors from the workplace.
Follow normal safety procedures when sharpening non-sparking tools such as the provision of eye and face protection, adequate extraction and dust collection facilities.
Refer to OSH Answers General Hand Tool Operation for more tips.
Every professional working in the field of oil & gas knows how important it is to own specific hand tools that minimize the risk of accidents in the workplace. The safety of workers is a matter of supreme concern for every industry, and that’s why they go for tools that are spark resistant and help avoid situations like fire and explosion.
When it comes to ensuring workplace safety, investing in non-sparking tools can be the best course of action. There is a range of non-sparking tools available in the market, making it easier for you to find the ones that work best for your ATEX zone. The tools are known for serving their best purpose in industries like coal mines, oil refineries, offshore oil rigs, and others.
Now, you must be a little curious to know what is so special about these tools and what they are made of to eliminate sparks and ensure workplace safety. But before moving on to that part, let us first put some light on the brief explanation of Non-Sparking Insulated Tools.
Non-sparking tools, also popularly known as “spark reduced,” “spark-resistant,” or “spark-proof,” are used in working environments that contain flammable gases, vapors, dust, residues, and fluids. They prevent the occurrence of sparks, thus eliminating the risk of fire and explosions.
De Neers offers the finest range of Hand Tools that are synonymous with reliability, quality, value, and innovation. The range includes tools like pliers, wrenches, screwdrivers, and a few others to name. The offered tools, along with helping you maintain a safe working environment, also provide great functionality in the long run.
By now, you have gained a clear understanding of what non-sparking tools are and why it is important for professionals to use them. Let’s now move on to learn what these tools are made of.
The safety tools are made from non-ferrous metals (metals that do not contain iron) like bronze, brass, copper-nickel alloys, or copper-aluminum alloys to reduce the risk of sparks while the tool is in use. The tools are even made from non-metals like wood, leather, and plastics that are spark resistant.
These tools are appreciated in the industrial sector for their ability to prevent both fire and explosion from occurring in environments that may contain flammable vapors, dust, residues, or vapors. While working in confined spaces and areas where flammable dust, gases, or liquids are present, using a non-sparking tool is the best practice.
Because the tools are made from non-ferrous metals, they are softer than the standard tools made from high strength alloy steel. They also have lower tensile strength and resistance, which makes them wear out more quickly. But they have one advantage that no other type of tool can offer, and that is they generate cold sparks with a relatively low level of heat, which is insufficient to ignite any substance.
Here is a brief explanation of tools made from different materials:
Plastic: The tools are a must-have for professionals working in ATEX (Atmospheres Explosibles) environments as they are non-magnetic and will never spark.
Aluminum Copper: The tools made from aluminum-copper alloy are lightweight as compared to the heavier copper-based alloys. They possess excellent durability and are reliable.
Beryllium Copper: The tools from this alloy are the strongest and hardest with a tensile strength ranging from - MPa. The tools are perfect for heavy-duty tasks.
Brass: The tools are a bit expensive, but worth every penny of your money. They are known for their durability and have an aesthetic shine.
Bronze: Although the tools are conductive, they don’t spark. They can be an excellent addition to your tool kit and help you carry your tasks with ease.
An important piece of advice: Clean all your non-sparking tools thoroughly after use and ensure that they are free from any ferrous contaminants or rust, which can void the non-sparking properties of the tools.
Also, remember not to use the tools in direct contact with acetylene, mainly in the presence of moisture, as it may result in the creation of highly dangerous explosive acetals.
Additionally, don’t forget to frequently sharpen all the anti-spark tools following the safety procedures like protecting your face and eyes and collecting the powders with proper tools.
Lastly, it is essential that you ventilate the premises in order to remove potentially harmful powders and vapors from the atmosphere.
These are some simple rules that you can follow to ensure the tools’ long-lasting functioning and minimize the possible dangers in the workplace.
The non-sparking insulated tools have unique properties that make them fit to use in environments that contain flammable substances. They have made the work of professionals working in industries like oil refineries and coal mines easier by helping them work safely.
The tools promise a long-serving life if they are cleaned properly and kept free of contamination, as the same result in degrading their non-sparking ability. The non-sparking tools are the ones to go for when it comes to uplifting the safety level in your industrial working environment.