In a number of industries, work is carried out in conditions of increased explosion and fire risk. These are the oil and gas sector, the chemical industry, the mining industry, the production of paint and varnish materials, fuel and lubricants warehouses and other areas where there are:
- flammable gases;
- vapors of flammable liquids;
- explosive dusts;
- other explosive environments.
In such conditions, even the slightest spark can cause catastrophic consequences, ranging from serious material damage to a threat to human life. That is why it is critically important to use a specialized intrinsically safe tool.
Copper-plated tools: basic level of protection
Copper-plated tools are steel products with a layer of copper applied to the surface. This technology provides:
- Intrinsic safety. The copper coating significantly reduces the likelihood of sparks when the tool hits and rubs against hard surfaces.
- Affordable price. Compared with tools made of special alloys, copper-plated products have a lower price, which makes them attractive for widespread use.
- Sufficient level of protection in environments with moderate danger, where intrinsically safe requirements are not extremely strict.
However, copper-plated tools also have limitations: over time, the copper coating can wear out, which reduces its protective properties. Therefore, it is recommended to use them in conditions where the risk of sparking is not critically high.
AlCu and BeCu alloys: increased safety and reliability
For work in particularly hazardous environments, we recommend tools made of special alloys - aluminum with copper (AlCu) and beryllium with copper (BeCu). These materials provide a fundamentally different level of safety and performance.
Key advantages of AlCu and BeCu alloys
- Absolute absence of sparking. AlCu and BeCu alloys are guaranteed to be spark-free when in contact with hard surfaces throughout the life of the tool. This makes them indispensable in areas with the highest risk of explosion.
- Exceptional durability and wear resistance. Tools made of these alloys remain functional even under intense and prolonged loads. They are resistant to mechanical damage, deformation and fatigue damage, which ensures:
- long service life;
- stable performance;
- savings on tool replacement.
- High corrosion resistance. AlCu and BeCu alloys demonstrate excellent corrosion resistance, including:
- exposure to moisture;
- aggressive chemical environments;
- temperature fluctuations;
- salt solutions and other corrosive substances.
This is especially important when working outdoors, in conditions of high humidity or in chemically active environments.
- Versatility of application. AlCu and BeCu tools can be used in a wider range of hazardous environments where copper-plated counterparts do not provide the required level of protection. They are suitable for:
- class 0 and 1 zones (permanent presence of explosive atmosphere);
- operations in explosive zones with high concentrations of combustible substances;
- operations requiring maximum intrinsic safety guarantees.
Compliance with regulatory requirements
By investing in a high-quality intrinsically safe tool, you will:
- ensure the safety of personnel;
- minimize the risks of accidents and incidents;
- increase the efficiency of production processes;
- comply with the requirements of the legislation in the field of industrial safety.
Intrinsically safe tool from Sitomo at Enex
Sitomo product catalog on Enex