Non-sparking tools are essential to any good toolkit. They involve a non-ferrous coating that makes accidental sparks a thing of the past. In addition, they are not magnetic. This is due to the lack of iron in their chemical composition, which makes them very useful in many different situations. There are several situations in which non-sparking tools must be used
An oil rig is basically a big bomb waiting to explode. Fortunately, non-sparking tools are an integral part of safety protocols for oil extraction operations. They do not recklessly cause sparks, and may have prevented many potential explosions. The same is true for many natural gas extraction operations.
Not only can these tools be used for safety in potential explosion situations, but they are also well suited for sanitary equipment maintenance and repair. Magnetic resonance imaging machines often called MRIs, use large magnets to scan the brain. Because the metal composition of MRI tools does not include iron, they are also non-magnetic tools. Titanium, for example, is 100% safe for use in diagnostic imaging and biomedical machines.
T Type Wrench
It is not absolutely necessary for mechanics to use non-sparking tools when working on a car, but if the car's gas tank is full, then caution may be the best approach. Again, the risk of a spark igniting a car's fuel tank is somewhat unlikely, but if you are an automotive mechanic, be aware of this possibility.
Forklifts, pickers, carts, and conveyors in chemical handling plants may need to be serviced at some point. Chemical plants are also the most likely place to find highly flammable materials. The use of non-sparking tools is a must here.
Non-Sparking Tool
Weapons of war are very flammable. Guns, flamethrowers, real bombs, and everything in-between pose a real risk of accidental ignition due to stray sparks. Having the right tools for the job is rarely more important than in an ammunition plant.
Safety should always be paramount in situations involving the endangerment of humans. Working with flammable materials or strong magnetic equipment is stressful enough without the constant threat of explosion. That's why spark-free tools are an important part of any balanced toolkit.
Q: How do I store and maintain my non-sparking tools?
A: Keep your non-sparking tools clean and free of ferrous metal contamination, which can reduce their non-sparking capability. Avoid contact with acetylene, which can form explosive acetylenes, especially in the presence of moisture. If damage occurs to the striking surface of the hammer or the edge of the chisel, trim the surface and head of the tool. Do not store hammers and other hand tools with wooden handles where the handles may dry out and shrink. This will increase the risk of handle breakage or head loosening.
Q: Why do non-sparking tools specify that it does not contain beryllium?
A: The non-sparking tool industry is sensitive to the potential toxicity of beryllium dust, mist and fumes that can occur when using softer metals in non-sparking tools. The same problem does not exist with other non-sparking metals.
