Non-sparking tools: The must-have safety tools

Non-sparking tools: The must-have safety tools

Are you interested in learning more about Non-Sparking Striking Tools? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!

What is a non sparking tool?

A non-sparking tool (also referred to as spark-resistant or spark-reduced) is a tool that is only capable of producing a cool or low-energy spark. This unique characteristic arises because these tools are made from metals that absorb heat rather than generating high temperature sparks like steel tools. Common examples include copper tools, brass tools, and any beryllium non-sparking tool.

Even though non-sparking tools can generate sparks, these sparks are so low in temperature that they do not ignite. This makes them ideal for use in environments with flammable gases or materials, ensuring safety and minimizing health risks.

Where are non-sparking tools used?

Non-sparking tools become essential in high-risk environments where there's a potential for fire or explosion. Therefore, these tools are widely used in various commercial industries, especially where flammable chemicals, materials, or gases are processed. Industries include hydrogen processing, oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, and the production of fireworks, paint, and explosives.

In addition, non-sparking tools are prevalent in oil refineries, offshore oil rigs, coal mines, and grain silos. These environments are filled with flammable substances, and using non-sparking tools can significantly mitigate the risk of hazardous incidents.

What are non-sparking tools made of?

Non-sparking tools are made from metals that produce only cool or low-energy sparks. These include brass, bronze, and copper-based alloys such as copper-nickel, copper-aluminium, or copper-beryllium, with copper being the primary component.

Unlike regular tools, non-sparking tools do not contain steel, which is known for producing hot, ignition-capable sparks. Consequently, steel is not used in non-sparking tool manufacturing to ensure maximum safety in risk-prone workplaces.

Must-have non-sparking tools

Hammers

Steel hammers can easily generate sparks during striking. Using a non sparking hammer, such as those made of copper beryllium, will ensure you stay safe in environments where sparks can cause flammable liquids or gases to ignite.

Wrenches

Non-sparking wrenches will help you to tighten and loosen nuts and bolts safely in environments where flammable materials represent an explosion risk.

Pliers

Non-sparking pliers are an essential tool for maintaining operational health & safety standards in industries such as oil and gas. 

Scrapers

A non-sparking scraper is the perfect tool to turn to if you need to remove gravel, dirt, or other substances from the ground in hazardous conditions.

Sockets

If you’re using a ratchet and socket for a job that presents a high risk of explosion it’s essential that the tool you use is manufactured from a non-sparking metal.

If you want to learn more, please visit our website Non-Sparking Tightening Tools.

Screwdrivers

Non-sparking screwdrivers in a range of sizes can ensure you’re always able to remove or affix screws safely when working near flammable substances.

How to maintain copper-beryllium non-sparking tools?

Non-sparking tools require a little more care than those made of iron or steel, however, you can easily maintain copper-beryllium tools in the following ways:

• Avoid dropping or throwing the tool. Always place it down carefully after use.
• Make sure you always select the most appropriate tool for the job to reduce tool slips.
• Always clean non-sparking tools after using them to prevent contamination.
• Check the condition of your tools regularly for deterioration – especially the tools you use most often.
• When using non-sparking hammers, make a conscious effort not to overstrike.
• Keep copper-beryllium tools clear of corrosive substances that can compromise their non-sparking properties.
• When sharpening non sparking tools, always wear appropriate PPE such as safety goggles, gloves, and a face mask. 
• Always keep your non-sparking tools separate from other tools.

Conclusion

Non-sparking tools are essential for any job that brings you into close contact with, or proximity to, flammable materials. They’re also a health and safety necessity when working in industries with a high explosion risk, such as oil & gas.

It’s never worth using a traditional tool in a situation where you should be using a non-sparking tool. Not only could you jeopardize your own safety, you also put other lives at risk.

Like all responsible tool manufacturers, at Red Box we offer a range of non-sparking tools in a variety of certified non sparking metals. You’ll find the full range, which includes Bahco non sparking tools, on our website.  

FAQs

Is stainless steel considered non-sparking metal?

No. Stainless steel is not considered a non-sparking metal.

Does copper cause sparks?

Copper can produce sparks but only cold sparks. Copper quickly absorbs heat, which is why it’s one of the primary metals used in the manufacture of non-sparking tools.

Can aluminium make a spark?

Yes. Pure aluminium can spark. Aluminium alloys such as copper-aluminium, however, are considered non-spark, providing copper is the primary metal.

Who uses non sparking tools?

Non-sparking tools are used in industries such as oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, coal mining, and grain silos, as well as in the production of fireworks, explosives and paint manufacturing. 

What makes a tool non-sparking?

A tool is non-sparking if it’s made from a non-sparking classified metal such as bronze, brass, copper-nickel, copper-aluminium, or copper-beryllium.

Hand Tools - Non-sparking tools

Commonly used hand tools are often manufactured of steel alloys. Preferred “non-sparking” metals have less tensile strength than steel 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 must be dressed more frequently.

“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-aluminium alloys (aluminium bronze), or copper-beryllium alloys (beryllium bronze).

What is the most important thing to know about “non-sparking” tools?

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 known substance. 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, vapours, liquids, dusts, or residues.

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.

NOTE: It is also important to consider the metals used in the tools themselves. For example, beryllium has been associated with several health issues, including cancer. While exposure to beryllium dust is likely very low with the general use of non-sparking tools, it may be a consideration when grinding or polishing the tool itself.

The company is the world’s best Brass Tools For Sale supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.