The S•COR•E series of options provides for improved protection, durability and performance for hoist operations in corrosive or harsh environments.

It is generally accepted that rusty, and/or corroded steel is more likely to generate sparks than if free from corrosion or rust. Therefore, any improvement in corrosion or rust-resistance results in improved spark-resistance.

A spark of sufficient heat to ignite the surrounding atmosphere generally is unlikely in mechanical hoisting equipment, but it may potentially be generated by friction during operation or unintentional impact of a hoist or trolley with other metal components. In order to provide the user with corrosion and spark-resistance protection.
IR offers different levels of protection from which you can select to fit your particular needs.

The user is cautioned to check carefully the local and/or national standards, codes, etc. which may affect the selection and use of equipment in the intended environment.

Nickel diffused load chain–
designed specifically for corrosive and potentially harsh environments.
The manufacturer of the nickel-diffused chain advises us that compared with steel, stainless steel, alloy steel, and copper steel, (under like test conditions) ND chain produced fewer sparks. ND chain is our selection for use on S•COR•E products in the sizes available versus stainless steel, because the ND chain does not lose strength during the nickel-diffusing process. Additionally, the ND chain

has a harder surface and greater corrosion and flaking resistance than the softer chains.

Eventually, both ND chain and most stainless steel chains will have
corrosion and, perhaps, some rust. The user should therefore regularly
examine the load chain for the appearance of corrosion and rust, which indicates the termination of its spark resistant life, and the chain should be replaced immediately.

Copper plating, zinc plating, solid bronze
Various institutes and standards organizations have studied the corrosion and spark-resistant nature of metals. Most manufacturers, including IR, will offer products that are resistant to corrosion and sparking, but are not to be considered spark-proof. This is essentially because most metals, including zinc, bronze, and stainless steel, will spark from the application of sufficient striking force and energy.

S•COR•E series products use plated or solid, non-ferrous metals to provide ”spark-resistance“ by reducing the likelihood of corrosion and sparking, and also the temperature of the spark, if one should occur. Ultimately, the selection of the correct corrosion and spark-resistant features is the responsibility of the customer.

Plated and “solid bronze” hoist and trolley components
Third party research provides overwhelming evidence that
non-ferrous metals and substances offer excellent anti-sparking
characteristics. Their use meets or exceeds all known requirements for protection against spark generation in a hydrocarbon environment.