What Are Non-Sparking Tools and What Are They Made Of?
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.
What are Non-Sparking 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.
What are Non-Sparking Insulated tools 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 1280-1480 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.
How to use these tools?
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.
Final Thoughts
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.