Non-Sparking Tool Materials: Aluminum Bronze Tools vs Copper Beryllium Tools

When selecting the right alloy for your non-sparking, non-magnetic safety tools, you have two choices: copper beryllium tools or aluminum bronze tools.  It’s important to keep a few key properties in mind: zone compatibility, hardness, durability, magnetic properties, and composition.

Different zones require certain alloys. Our copper beryllium tools fulfil ATEX requirements for work in a number of zones, including 0, 1, and 2 (for gas, mists, or vapors); 20, 21, and 22 (for dusts); and M1 and M2 (mining).  CS Unitec’s aluminum bronze tools are appropriate for work in zones 1 and 2, and 21 and 22.  Beryllium copper tools can handle more environments.

Hardness is an aspect to keep in mind in this selection process as well. Our aluminum bronze alloy tools have a hardness of 27 HRC. If your application requires a tool with higher hardness rating, copper beryllium equipment, with an HRC of 38, is a good choice.

Beryllium copper tools are extremely durable, due to the alloy’s tensile strength and high hardness. Aluminum bronze tools, because of their chemical composition, are not as durable as copper beryllium equipment.

Magnetic properties of these alloys are another important aspect in choosing the correct tool for your application. If you need a tool for non-critical, non-magnetic applications, aluminum bronze equipment features low magnetism due to its minimal ferrous composition. Beryllium copper tools have a more non-ferrous composition, so this equipment is safer for applications that require non-magnetic properties.

Check out the composition qualities of each alloy below to see which works best for your application. Each user must follow all appropriate safety regulations when choosing a tool for their particular working environment.

Copper beryllium tools and aluminum bronze tools both offer a range of great qualities and usage. For more information, check our descriptive table below.

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Appropriate applications include oil drilling platforms, petrochemical plants, oil refineries, natural gas installations, ammunition plants, varnish factories, sugar refineries, grain silos, mining and other industries where non-sparking safety tools are required. The non-magnetic feature of these alloys also makes them ideal for working on special machinery with powerful magnets such as MRI machines, military de-mining and explosives.

Non-Sparking, Non-Magnetic Beryllium Copper Tools are drop forged for the highest quality in hand tools. These corrosion-resistant tools are suitable for use in shipyards, laboratories, and paper and pulp mills, as well as in the pharmaceutical, food product manufacturing and wine industries.

Distinctive Characteristics of Beryllium Copper Tools

The utilization of beryllium copper imparts several distinctive characteristics to tools:

High tensile strength

Excellent thermal conductivity

Resistance to corrosion and wear

Low magnetic permeability

Benefits of Beryllium Copper Tools

Exceptional Strength and Durability

Beryllium copper tools excel in strength-demanding tasks, ensuring longevity and reduced need for frequent replacements.

High Thermal Conductivity

The high thermal conductivity of beryllium copper prevents overheating, enhancing operational efficiency in various applications.

Corrosion Resistance

Beryllium copper's resistance to corrosion extends the lifespan of tools, even in challenging and corrosive environments.

Why is beryllium used in non-sparking tools?

Non-sparking tools protect against both fire and explosion in environments that may contain flammable liquids, vapors, dusts or residues. ... Beryllium alloys are less favorable due to the potential toxicity of beryllium dust. Non-metals such as wood, leather and plastics can also be used to create non-sparking tools.

What are beryllium copper tools used for?

Beryllium copper screwdrivers, pliers, wrenches, cold chisels, knives, and hammers are available for environments with explosive hazards, such as oil rigs, coal mines, and grain elevators. An alternative metal sometimes used for non-sparking tools is aluminium bronze.

What materials are non-sparking?

Common non-sparking tools are made of:

Plastic.

Brass.

Bronze.

Copper-nickel alloys.

Copper-aluminum alloys.

Copper-beryllium alloys.

Wood.

Leather.

Are beryllium tools safe?

For example, beryllium has been associated with several health issues including cancer. While exposure to beryllium dust is likely very low with the general use of non-sparking tools, it may be a consideration grinding or polishing the tool itself.

Are beryllium copper tools more expensive than traditional tools?

Beryllium copper tools can be slightly more expensive due to the alloy's unique properties, but their longevity often justifies the investment.

Is beryllium exposure a concern with these tools?

Proper handling and adherence to safety guidelines minimize the risk of beryllium exposure.

Can beryllium copper tools replace stainless steel in all applications?

While versatile, beryllium copper tools are best suited for specific applications where their properties shine.

Are there any eco-friendly disposal methods for beryllium copper tools?

Recycling beryllium copper is recommended to reduce environmental impact.