Non-sparking tools: Common Misconceptions You Need ...

The following are some of the misconceptions about non-sparking tools that we have come across through interactions with industrial companies:

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1. Non-sparking tools do not generate any spark

Non sparking tools are made of metal, and as a result, they do generate sparks. The difference between non-sparking tools and steel tools is the energy of the spark they generate.

The low energy of the sparks is the result of the special alloys in the composition of non-sparking tools.

2. Copper Beryllium (Cu-Be) tools are more expensive than Aluminum Bronze (Al-Bron) tools

Even if Cu-Be tools are around 30% more expensive than Al-Bron non-sparking tools, they are 40 to 50% harder. As a result, Al-Bron non-sparking tools may be a more expensive option over time considering you might need to replace them more often.

Depending on the frequency of use, using Cu-Be non-sparking tools may be a more economical option in the mid to long run.

3. Plastic coated tools are safe to be used in explosive work environments

Even if plastic coated tools are likely safer than steel tools, they can´t considered to be a safe option considering that it is not possible to coat all active parts of a tool.

 As a result, they are called spark reduction tools but not non-sparking tools. Their use is not recommended for the following reasons:

• They do not avoid the risk of explosion
• The plastic coating is susceptible to become damaged, further increasing the exposed areas
• The standard EN -1 prohibits the use of steel made tools in most zones and groups of gas.

4. Cu-Be non-sparking tools are carcinogenic and therefore represent a health hazard

We have found out that there is some confusion about the impact that Cu-Be non-sparking tools could have in the user´s health.

It is true that beryllium in the form of dust, inhaled continuously over long periods of time has been proven to be cause lung cancer (for example in foundries where this alloy is melted and appropriate safety measures are not in place).

However, there is no evidence or recorded cases about Cu-Be non-sparking tools causing any cancer. Main reasons are:

• Cu-Be has only 2% of beryllium in its composition.
• It is not in powder form, so you do not inhale it.
• The exposure is minimal.

It is for the above reasons that there is no country in the world that has banned the use of this alloy.

5. Cu-Be non-sparking tools are always the safest option

Even if Cu-Be non-sparking tools are generally the safest option, there is one exception: the presence of Acetylene gas.

Even if Acetylene is a gas in the IIC group (and therefore safe for Cu-Be non-sparking tools), the gas reacts with any alloy with a copper composition higher than 65%, creating a new highly explosive compound called copper acetylide.

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As both Cu-Be alloys and Al-Bron contain more than 80% of copper, they must never be used in acetylene environments. In such environments, steel tools would likely be safer than Cu-Be non-sparking tools.

For such environments, EGA Master has developed an alloy called ACETILEX®, which have less than 65% of copper in their composition. As a result, ACETILEX® non-sparking tools are the only completely safe alternative on the market for working in environments with acetylene.

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Non-sparking tools are those made without iron&#;that is, made from non-ferrous materials like brass, copper-nickel alloys, bronze, or copper-aluminum alloys. They may also be made of copper-beryllium alloys, but these present challenges because of the toxic nature of beryllium dust, which can be a carcinogen. Wood, plastic, and leather tools are also classed as non-sparking.

Be aware that &#;non-sparking&#; is something of a misnomer: non-sparking tools can produce &#;cold sparks&#; that don&#;t contain enough heat to cause carbon disulfide, the substance with the lowest ignition point, to catch fire. But you still may see sparks even when using non-sparking tools.

So if non-sparking tools are themselves a safety precaution, what other safety concerns could there be? Here are 5 tips for using non-sparking tools safely that may explain concerns when using tools made of non-ferrous materials:

Inspect for Wear

Non-sparking wrenches, chisels, hammers, crowbars, and other non-ferrous tools are softer than tools made with iron. As a result, they may become worn more quickly. A hammer, chisel, or wrench with a worn striking surface or handle can be a hazard. Ensure you inspect your non-sparking tools before each use and send worn ones to be redressed.

Eliminate Residue

It&#;s essential to keep non-sparking tools clean. Any tool can pick up dust or residue from the materials worked on, and these residues can cause sparking, even though the tool is made to avoid creating sparks.

Ensure Cross-Ventilation

Store non-sparking tools in an adequately cross-ventilated location to avoid moisture and dust build-up. An accumulation of dust can cause sparks and explosions in hazardous work areas where gases, vapors, or other flammable substances are present.

Don&#;t Use Copper With Acetylene

Acetylene reacts with copper to create explosive acetylides. Using copper in contact with acetylene in humid environments is especially hazardous as moisture increases the risk of reaction.

Rely on the User&#;s Manual

Different types of non-sparking tools are used for different applications. Read, re-read, and read the user manual again. Know how and where your specific tool may and may not be used safely. To use your tool safely, it&#;s also critical to understand your work environment and the composition of gases, vapors or other materials that are present, and what the user&#;s manual says about how your specific tool will react in that environment.

These 5 tips for using non-sparking tools safely should enhance safety in the work environment. Never become complacent about using non-sparking tools: vigilance with cleanliness and attention to cross-ventilation and wear are necessary at all times.

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