Why are non-sparking tools called safety tools?

Workplace safety has become one of the major concerns in the manufacturing industry. When it comes to preventing occupational risks, certain requirements must be met, especially in ATEX classified areas.

One of the requirements that should be noted is the use of precise hand tools.

By using precise hand tools, you can solve one of the major problems in the ATEX classification area, and that is friction ignition. This is caused when two metals come into contact with each other and spark enough to cause a fire and explosion.

To prevent this and to make safety a priority, industry must turn to spark-proof or non-sparking safety tools.

What are non-sparking tools?

Non-sparking tools, also known as safety tools, are made of non-ferrous metals (metals that do not contain iron) that eliminate the risk of sparks being ignited when used. They are called safety tools because of their ability to prevent fires and explosions in environments containing flammable gases, vapors, residues, dust or liquids.

When working in confined spaces and environments with flammable materials, the use of fireproof flower tools is arguably best practice.

The materials used in their making

As mentioned earlier, these tools are made of non-ferrous metals such as bronze, brass and copper-nickel alloys, copper-aluminum alloys or copper-beryllium alloys. Even non-metallic materials such as wood, plastic and leather can be used to make these tools, as they are also spark resistant.

Since non-ferrous metals are used to make non-sparking tools, they are softer than standard tools made from metals such as steel. These tools have lower tensile strength and resistance, which makes them wear out faster. One advantage that puts them ahead of ordinary hand tools, however, is that they produce a cold spark with relatively low heat, not enough to ignite any substance.

Here is a brief summary of properties that each material adds to safety tools and equipment:

Aluminum Copper: Known for its light weight, these tools offer good reliability and durability.

Beryllium Copper: Has a high tensile strength of 1280 to 1480 MPa, making it the strongest non-sparking tool.

Brass: Tools made from brass last longer and have an attractive luster. They are a bit expensive, but worth your investment.

Bronze: Conducts electricity but does not spark. They can be part of your toolkit and help you safely complete industrial tasks.

The right way to use non-sparking safety tools

Here are some tips to help you use security tools in the right way and make sure they work consistently.

-Do not use tools that come into direct contact with acetylene, especially in the presence of moisture, as this will result in the generation of highly dangerous explosive acetylene.

-Use standard procedures to sharpen these tools frequently and wear the necessary safety equipment for the face and hands.

-Clean the tool precisely after each use to ensure that no ferrous contaminants remain on its surface that could reduce its non-sparking characteristics.

-Ensure that your ATEX industrial environment has an effective ventilation facility to remove harmful and flammable vapors, dust and residues from the atmosphere.

By following the mentioned tips, you can ensure safety in your workplace.

What makes non-sparking tools the best safety tools?

These tools are made of non-ferrous metals and have good corrosion resistance. This makes them ideal for use in flammable environments to access various chemicals such as acids and bases without creating a hazardous environment. In addition, these tools are non-magnetic, so they do not create electronic interference in the industry, maintaining high safety standards.

Final thoughts

Non-sparking tools have unique properties that make them ideal for use in ATEX or flammable environments. Thanks to these tools, work in different industries, such as chemical, oil and gas, coal mining, pharmaceutical, etc., has become easier and safer.

Safety tools are different from ordinary hand tools and are guaranteed to last a long time. With these tools, professionals can operate effectively without putting their safety at risk.

If you want to minimize the risk of fires and explosions in your industry, investing in spark-free hand tools will be worth every penny you spend.