Be aware that some chemicals, such as amatol and certain liquid gases, can react with copper alloys, forming metalloids that compromise the tool's non-sparking properties. Additionally, high-copper tools must not come into contact with acetylene, especially in the presence of moisture, due to the risk of forming explosive acetylides.
Basics Of Non-Sparking Tools and Their Uses
Non-sparking tools are recommended for use in hazardous environments where flammable or combustible vapors, liquids, dust, or residues are present. Standard steel tools can produce sparks when struck, scraped, or dropped—posing a serious risk in explosive atmospheres. For these applications, tools must be made from non-sparking, non-ferrous, non-magnetic, and corrosion-resistant metals.
Caution: Non-sparking tools are not anti-static—they can conduct electricity.
When To Use Non-Sparking Tools
Non-sparking tools should be used in any environment where ignition sources are present. Some common applications include, but are not limited to:
Maintenance and Repair Operations (MRO)
Collection, Holding and Transfer (CHT)
Military
Work in Confined Spaces
Hot Work (any operation that generates heat, sparks, or open flames)
Transportation (airports, railways, tanker trucks, shipyards), and chemical, petrochemical, or gas operations
City, State, and Federal Government operations (including utilities, waste management, HAZMAT, and WMD response)
General Dust Environments (e.g., grain handling, mining, paper and pulp mills)
Materials Used in Non-Sparking Tools
Non-sparking tools are typically made from aluminum bronze, beryllium copper, or other copper-based alloys.
Aluminum bronze offers high strength for torque and impact applications, with a Brinell hardness of 200–350 and tensile strength of 95,000–150,000 psi. Most non-sparking tools are beryllium-free.
Beryllium copper provides maximum strength for torque and impact use. Containing 2% beryllium, it is ideal for tools with gripping teeth or cutting edges. It has a Brinell hardness of 332–430 and tensile strength up to 200,000 psi.
Types of Non-Sparking Tools
A wide range of non-sparking tools is used in industrial settings—from hammers and wrecking bars to flange wedges—to help ensure safety around flammable gases, vapors, or dust.
Non-Sparking Hammer
Non-sparking hammers are made from non-ferrous materials such as brass or copper to minimize the risk of sparks in hazardous environments. Available in various sizes, they are ideal for use where flammable gases, vapors, or dust may be present. Using these hammers supports workplace safety and ensures compliance with hazardous material regulations.
Non-Sparking Wrecking Bar
Non-sparking wrecking bars are designed for prying, lifting, and separating materials without generating sparks. Commonly made from aluminum bronze, they are ideal for use in flammable environments. The flattened, angled end is specifically shaped to remove nails from tough materials like wooden crates.
Non-Sparking Flange Wedge
Non-sparking flange wedges are used to safely separate pipe flanges and create space for gasket installation. They can also function as leveling wedges for small machines, ensuring stable, flat placement for optimal performance. Made from corrosion-resistant materials, they are ideal for use in hazardous environments. Available in various sizes, these wedges help ensure safe, secure, and efficient operations.
Non-Sparking Crate Opener
Non-sparking crate openers are designed to provide the force and leverage needed to open wooden crates safely. Featuring an open-end design for removing nails or screws, these openers are made from non-ferrous materials such as aluminum bronze to prevent sparks in hazardous environments. These tools support compliance with OSHA regulations for work in flammable or compromised areas.
Non-Sparking Hook Wrench
Non-sparking hook wrenches are used to tighten or loosen nuts and bolts in environments where spark prevention is critical. Made from non-ferrous materials, they help reduce the risk of fire or explosion in high-risk areas such as mining operations and chemical plants. Available in a range of sizes, these wrenches are suitable for various industrial applications.