Non-sparking tools
Tools
Non-sparking tools are made from copper-beryllium or aluminium-bronze alloys that do not produce ignition-capable sparks on impact or abrasion. They are designed for explosive atmospheres under ATEX directive 2014/34/EU, where steel or iron tools are prohibited. The range covers valve keys, socket wrenches, miscellaneous wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, side cutters, hammers, wedges, chisels and open-end wrenches.
All tools are made from non-magnetic alloys, making them suitable for use in magnetic field environments (e.g. MRI rooms, magnetic coil test benches). Bahco is the primary manufacturer in this category.
Wrench
Non-sparking screwdrivers
Non-sparking socket wrench
Non-sparking valve keys
Non-sparking other tools
Non-sparking pliers
Non-sparking side cutter
Non-sparking hammers
Non-sparking wedges
Non-sparking chisels
| Property | Copper-beryllium (Cu-Be) | Aluminium bronze (Al-bronze) |
|---|---|---|
| Spark-free rating | Very high | High |
| Strength | Higher (hardened) | Medium |
| Magnetism | Non-magnetic | Non-magnetic |
| Corrosion resistance | Very good | Good |
| Typical use | High-stress tools (hammers, chisels) | Screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers |
Typical applications: Oil and gas production (refineries, drilling rigs, pipeline systems), chemical and petrochemical industry (reactor plants, tank farms), mining and explosives handling, grain silos and mills (dust explosion risk Zone 20-22), paint stores and spray booth cleaning, offshore platforms, and maintenance in ATEX-certified areas of the food industry.
