Flash Point measures the lowest temperature at which a liquid generates sufficient vapor to form a flammable mixture with air near its surface. It assesses the flammability and volatility of fuels, oils, solvents, and other chemical substances. Purposes of Flash Point testing include
- Quality Control: Companies test the flash points of products to ensure consistency in manufacturing. Variations can indicate contamination or degradation.
- Safety Compliance: Government agencies, such as OSHA [1]and NFPA[2], set flash point regulations for transporting and storing flammable substances. Flash point data is also a standard in Safety Data Sheets (SDS), guiding the safe handling of chemicals.
- Environmental Protection: Flash point testing aids in assessing environmental risks, particularly when substances are stored or disposed of in ways that could affect the environment.
- Fire and Explosion Hazard Assessment: In sectors where ignition sources and combustible substances coexist, flash point data is vital to assess and mitigate fire risks.
Two primary Flash Point test methods are[3]:
- ASTM D92; Cleveland Open Cup: This test is conducted with an open container, where the sample is gradually heated, and a flame is introduced at specific intervals. The temperature at which ignition occurs is recorded as the flash point. This test is essential for characterizing the flammability of fuels, oils, and other similar substances, especially those with flash points above 79°C (175°F), which are less prone to spontaneous combustion
- ASTM D93; Pensky-Martens Closed Cup: This test is conducted in a container that is sealed during heating, allowing vapor to accumulate over the liquid. The flame is introduced through a small opening, and the temperature at which ignition occurs is recorded as the flash point. This is a standard test to determine the flash point of petroleum products, biodiesel, chemicals, and other liquids with flash points above 40°C (104°F). This test is critical for assessing the flammability and safety of liquids, particularly those that can emit flammable vapors at relatively low temperatures
Not every lab is qualified to conduct Flash Point testing. Things to look for when selecting a lab amount to accuracy, safety, and reliability:
- Experience with Relevant Test Methods: Look for labs familiar with the specific flash point test required. The lab should also be experienced with the types of materials you’re testing.
- Trained and Qualified Technicians: Skilled technicians are essential for accurate results. Check that the lab’s personnel are qualified, have experience with flash point testing, and are trained in safety protocols.
- Data Quality and Reporting: The lab should provide clear, detailed reports, including the testing method used, conditions of the test, observed flash point, and any relevant notes or deviations.
- Turnaround Time: Look for a lab with a fast (>24-hour) turnaround time.
- Reputation: Look for a lab with a solid reputation in the industry.
- Additional Services: Some labs offer additional services, such as onsite sample collection, to ensure accuracy.
Eurofins TestOil meets all of these criteria. For more information on working with Eurofins TestOil for oil analysis and training visit www.testoil.com. Contact: 216-251-2510; sales@testoil.com.
About Eurofins TestOil
With more than 30 years of experience in the oil analysis industry, Eurofins TestOil focuses exclusively on assisting industrial facilities with reducing maintenance costs and avoiding unexpected downtime through oil and fuel analysis program implementation. As industry experts in diagnosing oil-related issues in equipment such as turbines, hydraulics, gearboxes, pumps, compressors and diesel generators, Eurofins TestOil provides customers with same-day turnaround on routine oil analysis testing. For more information on partnering with Eurofins TestOil on oil analysis programs or training opportunities visit https://testoil.com. Contact: Al Yates 216-251-2510; sales@testoil.com.
About Eurofins – the global leader in bio-analysis
Eurofins is Testing for Life. Eurofins is the global leader in food, environment, pharmaceutical and cosmetic product testing, and in discovery pharmacology, forensics, advanced material sciences and agroscience Contract Research services. Eurofins is also a market leader in certain testing and laboratory services for genomics, and in the support of clinical studies, as well as in BioPharma Contract Development and Manufacturing. The Group also has a rapidly developing presence in highly specialised and molecular clinical diagnostic testing and in-vitro diagnostic products.
With over 61,000 staff across a network of 940 laboratories in 59 countries, Eurofins’ companies offer a portfolio of over 200,000 analytical methods. Eurofins Shares are listed on Euronext Paris Stock Exchange.
[1] Occupational Safety and Health Administration
[2] National Fire Protection Association
[3] Eurofins TestOil offers both tests.
