Spark retardant forks are used in hazardous operations where spark-proof forklifts are used or where sparks may caused combustion/explosion. These forks are brass coated both on the blade and the face and sides of the shank. The brass is usually 1/8” thick and perhaps a little thicker on the bottom for wear resistance. The brass cladding is a weldment made to fit tightly onto the fork. It is not removable. Stainless steel cladding can be used for applications where sanitary requirements are prevalent: Pharmaceutical, Beverage, food processing, where the fork is exposed to the product in the manufacturing process.