What material should be used for hand tools when breaking a flange with high LEL to prevent spark generation?

When handling situations with a high Lower Explosive Limit (LEL), choosing the right material for hand tools is critical to avoid spark generation, which could lead to dangerous combustion or explosions. Brass is an ideal choice in this scenario because it is a non-ferrous metal that is less likely to create sparks upon impact compared to steel or aluminum.

Brass tools are designed to provide durability and strength while minimizing the risk of ignition. The material composition of brass provides a balance between hardness and malleability, allowing it to withstand mechanical stress without fragmenting and creating metal shards that could ignite flammable gases or vapors.

In contrast, materials like aluminum and steel are more likely to create sparks under stress due to their properties. Each of these metals can shatter or produce sparks when struck, especially in environments with flammable substances present. Plastic is an option, but while it does not produce sparks, it may lack the necessary strength and durability for heavy-duty mechanical tasks, limiting its effectiveness in many applications.

Thus, brass is the most suitable material for hand tools in this context, as it effectively reduces the risk of spark generation in environments with high LEL conditions.