ASTM D3828 Test Methods for Flash Point by Small Scale Closed Cup Tester
4. Summary of Test Methods
4.1 Method A - Flash/No Flash Test - A test specimen is introduced, by a syringe, into the test cup of the selected apparatus that is set and maintained at the specified temperature. After a specific time an ignition source is applied and a determination made as to whether or not a flash occurred.
4.2 Method B - Finite (or Actual) Flash Point - This method essentially repeats Method A a number of times, and by changing the test temperature and test specimen a number of times, determines the flash point.
4.2.1 A test specimen is introduced into the test cup of the selected apparatus that is maintained at the expected flash point. After a specified time an ignition source is applied and a determination made whether or not a flash occurred.
4.2.2 The test specimen is removed from the test cup; the test cup and cover are cleaned, and the test temperature adjusted 5°C (9°F) lower or higher depending on whether or not a flash occurred previously. A fresh test specimen is introduced and tested. This procedure is repeated until the flash point is established within 5°C (9°F).
4.2.3 The procedure is then repeated at 1°C (2°F) intervals until the flash point is determined to the nearest 1°C (2°F).
4.2.4 If improved accuracy is desired the procedure is repeated at 0.5°C (1°F) intervals until the flash point is determined to the nearest 0.5°C (1°F).
4.3 Test Time and Specimen Volume:
4.3.1 For all products, except biodiesel; for test temperatures up to and including 100°C (212°F), the test time is 1 minute and the specimen volume is 2 mL.
4.3.2 For all products, except biodiesel; for test temperatures over 100°C (212°F), the test time is 2 minute and the specimen volume is 4 mL.
4.3.3 For biodiesel; for all test temperatures, the test time is 1 minute and the specimen volume is 2 mL.
5. Significance and Use
5.1 Flash point measures the response of the test specimen to heat and ignition source under controlled laboratory conditions. It is only one of a number of properties that must be considered in assessing the overall flammability hazard of a material.
5.2 Flash point is used in shipping and safety regulations to define flammable and combustible materials and classify them. Consult the particular regulation involved for precise definitions of these classes.
5.3 Flash point can indicate the possible presence of highly volatile and flammable materials in a relatively nonvolatile or nonflammable material.
5.4 These test methods use a smaller sample (2 to 4 mL) and a shorter test time (1 to 2 min) than traditional test methods.
5.5 Method A, IP 524 and EN ISO 3680 are similar methods for flash no-flash tests. Method B, IP 523 and EN ISO 3679 are similar methods for flash point determination.
