What is a non-sparking wrench?
What Are Non-Sparking Tools and What Are They Made Of?
As you may already know, there are many highly specified tools for different types of jobs. Wrenches, screwdrivers, welding torches, pipe alignment clamps, you name it, there’s a tool for the job. One class of tools is made differently from all the rest. So, what are non-sparking tools, and what are they made of?
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What are non-sparking tools?
These tools are made from nonferrous metals, which means they are alloys that don’t contain iron. They have two unique properties. First, non-sparking tools, as the name suggests, do not spark. This makes them perfect for jobs involving flammable conditions. The second unique property, again due to the absence of iron, is that they are also non-magnetic tools. Working on hospital equipment like MRI machines is made possible by these tools.
What are non-sparking tools made of?
There are a few different alloys that these great tools are made from.
- Plastic: These tools are not only a top choice, but they are certainly non-magnetic and won’t spark.
- Beryllium Copper: This is the strongest and hardest copper alloy, boasting a tensile strength of 1280-1480 MPa. Beryllium copper tools are a must-have for the toughest jobs.
- Brass: Though a bit more expensive, brass tools are durable and have an aesthetic shine. These tools can stain, but that doesn’t degrade their quality.
- Bronze: This metal is conductive but does not spark. These tools have a long history in mechanical engineering and are an excellent addition to any toolkit.
- Aluminum Copper: A lightweight alternative to many of the heavier copper-based alloys. Although not as strong as beryllium blends, this alloy holds its own.
If you are a young professional craftsman or welder looking to build a respectable toolkit for a lucrative career to come, non-sparking tools are essential. Many projects will require you to work in highly flammable areas or on magnetic equipment that could yank the tools right out of your hand. If you are interested in getting these tools, shop our website, or contact us for more information.
Hand Tools - Non-Sparking Tools
Commonly used hand tools are often made of steel alloys. Preferred “non-sparking” metals have less tensile strength than steel used to make tools. Lower tensile strength means the metal has less resistance to tearing apart when stretched under test conditions. It also means 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-aluminum alloys (aluminum bronze), or copper-beryllium alloys (beryllium bronze).
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What is the most important thing to know about “non-sparking” tools?
Non-sparking tools can 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, vapors, liquids, dust, or residues.
NOTE: It is important to assess each situation carefully and use the appropriate tools for the hazards 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 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.
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