Designation: D93 − 13

Designation: 34/99

Standard Test Methods for

Flash Point by Pensky-Martens Closed Cup Tester1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D93; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of original
adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A superscript
epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the Department of Defense.

INTRODUCTION

This flash point test method is a dynamic test method which depends on specified rates of heating
to be able to meet the precision of the test method. The rate of heating may not in all cases give the
precision quoted in the test method because of the low thermal conductivity of some materials. There
are flash point test methods with slower heating rates available, such as Test Method D3941 (for
paints, resins, and related products, and high viscosity products in the range of 0 to110°C), where the
test conditions are closer to equilibrium.
Flash point values are a function of the apparatus design, the condition of the apparatus used, and
the operational procedure carried out. Flash point can therefore only be defined in terms of a standard
test method, and no general valid correlation can be guaranteed between results obtained by different
test methods, or with test apparatus different from that specified.

1. Scope* 1.3 Procedure B is applicable to residual fuel oils, cutback

1.1 These test methods cover the determination of the flash residua, used lubricating oils, mixtures of petroleum liquids
point of petroleum products in the temperature range from 40 with solids, petroleum liquids that tend to form a surface film

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to 370°C by a manual Pensky-Martens closed-cup apparatus or under test conditions, or are petroleum liquids of such kine-
an automated Pensky-Martens closed-cup apparatus, and the matic viscosity that they are not uniformly heated under the
determination of the flash point of biodiesel in the temperature stirring and heating conditions of Procedure A.
range of 60 to 190°C by an automated Pensky-Martens closed 1.4 Procedure C is applicable to biodiesel (B100). Since a
cup apparatus. flash point of residual alcohol in biodiesel is difficult to observe
by manual flash point techniques, automated apparatus with
NOTE 1—Flash point determinations above 250°C can be performed,
electronic flash point detection have been found suitable.
however, the precision has not been determined above this temperature.
For residual fuels, precision has not been determined for flash points 1.5 These test methods are applicable for the detection of
above 100°C. The precision of in-use lubricating oils has not been contamination of relatively nonvolatile or nonflammable ma-
determined. Some specifications state a D93 minimum flash point below
40°C, however, the precision has not been determined below this
terials with volatile or flammable materials.
temperature. 1.6 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the
1.2 Procedure A is applicable to distillate fuels (diesel, standard. The values given in parentheses are for information
biodiesel blends, kerosine, heating oil, turbine fuels), new and only.
in-use lubricating oils, and other homogeneous petroleum NOTE 2—It has been common practice in flash point standards for many
liquids not included in the scope of Procedure B or Procedure decades to alternately use a C–scale or an F–scale thermometer for
C. temperature measurement. Although the scales are close in increments,
they are not equivalent. Because the F–scale thermometer used in this
procedure is graduated in 5° increments, it is not possible to read it to the
2°C equivalent increment of 3.6°F. Therefore, for the purposes of
1
These test methods are under the joint jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D02 on application of the procedure of the test method for the separate tempera-
Petroleum Products, Liquid Fuels, and Lubricants and are the direct responsibility ture scale thermometers, different increments must be used. In this test
of Subcommittee D02.08 on Volatility. In the IP, these test methods are under the method, the following protocol has been adopted: When a temperature is
jurisdiction of the Standardization Committee. intended to be a converted equivalent, it will appear in parentheses
Current edition approved July 15, 2013. Published August 2013. Originally following the SI unit, for example 370°C (698°F). When a temperature is
approved in 1921. Last previous edition approved in 2012 as D93 – 12. DOI: intended to be a rationalized unit for the alternate scale, it will appear after
10.1520/D0093-13. “or,” for example, 2°C or 5°F.

*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard

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 D93 − 13
1.7 This standard does not purport to address all of the throughout the test specimen, and the test cover and shutter on
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the the apparatus can be cooler.
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro- 3.1.5 flash point, n— in petroleum products, the lowest
priate safety and health practices and determine the applica- temperature corrected to a barometric pressure of 101.3 kPa
bility of regulatory limitations prior to use. For specific (760 mm Hg), at which application of an ignition source causes
warning statements, see 6.4, 7.1, 9.3, 9.4, 11.1.2, 11.1.4, 11.1.8, the vapors of a specimen of the sample to ignite under specified
11.2.2, and 12.1.2. conditions of test.
2. Referenced Documents 4. Summary of Test Method
2.1 ASTM Standards:2 4.1 A brass test cup of specified dimensions, filled to the
D56 Test Method for Flash Point by Tag Closed Cup Tester inside mark with test specimen and fitted with a cover of
D3941 Test Method for Flash Point by the Equilibrium specified dimensions, is heated and the specimen stirred at
Method With a Closed-Cup Apparatus specified rates, using one of three defined procedures (A, B, or
D4057 Practice for Manual Sampling of Petroleum and C). An ignition source is directed into the test cup at regular
Petroleum Products intervals with simultaneous interruption of the stirring, until a
D4177 Practice for Automatic Sampling of Petroleum and flash is detected (see 11.1.8). The flash point is reported as

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Petroleum Products defined in 3.1.5.
E1 Specification for ASTM Liquid-in-Glass Thermometers
E300 Practice for Sampling Industrial Chemicals 5. Significance and Use
E502 Test Method for Selection and Use of ASTM Stan- 5.1 The flash point temperature is one measure of the
dards for the Determination of Flash Point of Chemicals tendency of the test specimen to form a flammable mixture
by Closed Cup Methods with air under controlled laboratory conditions. It is only one
2.2 ISO Standards3 of a number of properties which must be considered in
Guide 34 Quality Systems Guidelines for the Production of assessing the overall flammability hazard of a material.
Reference Materials 5.2 Flash point is used in shipping and safety regulations to
Guide 35 Certification of Reference Material—General and define flammable and combustible materials. One should con-
Statistical Principles sult the particular regulation involved for precise definitions of
these classifications.
3. Terminology
NOTE 3—The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT)4 and U.S.
3.1 Definitions: Department of Labor (OSHA) have established that liquids with a flash
3.1.1 biodiesel, n—a fuel comprised of mono-alkyl esters of point under 37.8°C (100°F) (see Note 1) are flammable, as determined by
long chain fatty acids derived from vegetable oils or animal these test methods, for those liquids which have a kinematic viscosity of
fats, designated B100. 5.8 mm 2/s (cSt) or more at 37.8°C or 9.5 mm 2/s (cSt) or more at 25°C
(77°F), or that contain suspended solids, or have a tendency to form a
3.1.2 biodiesel blends, n—a blend of biodiesel fuel with surface film while under test. Other classification flash points have been
petroleum-based diesel fuel. established by these departments for liquids using these test methods.
3.1.3 dynamic, adj—in petroleum products—in petroleum 5.3 These test methods should be used to measure and
product flash point test methods—the condition where the describe the properties of materials, products, or assemblies in
vapor above the test specimen and the test specimen are not in response to heat and an ignition source under controlled
temperature equilibrium at the time that the ignition source is laboratory conditions and should not be used to describe or
applied. appraise the fire hazard or fire risk of materials, products, or
3.1.3.1 Discussion—This is primarily caused by the heating assemblies under actual fire conditions. However, results of
of the test specimen at the constant prescribed rate with the these test methods may be used as elements of a fire risk
vapor temperature lagging behind the test specimen tempera- assessment which takes into account all of the factors which
ture. are pertinent to an assessment of the fire hazard of a particular
3.1.4 equilibrium, n— in petroleum products—in petroleum end use.
product flash point test methods—the condition where the 5.4 These test methods provide the only closed cup flash
vapor above the test specimen and the test specimen are at the point test procedures for temperatures up to 370°C (698°F).
same temperature at the time the ignition source is applied.
3.1.4.1 Discussion—This condition may not be fully 6. Apparatus
achieved in practice, since the temperature may not be uniform 6.1 Pensky-Martens Closed Cup Apparatus (manual)
—This apparatus consists of the test cup, test cover and shutter,

2
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
4
contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM For information on U.S. Department of Transportation regulations, see Codes
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on of U.S. Regulations 49 CFR Chapter 1 and the U.S. Department of Labor, see 29
the ASTM website. CFR Chapter XVII. Each of these items is revised annually and may be procured
3
Available from American National Standards Institute (ANSI), 25 W. 43rd St., from the Superintendent of Documents, Government Printing Office, Washington,
4th Floor, New York, NY 10036. DC 20402.

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 D93 − 13
stirring device, heating source, ignition source device, air bath, other types of samples, the size of the container shall be chosen
and top plate described in detail in Annex A1. The assembled such that the container is not more than 85 % full or less than
manual apparatus, test cup, test cup cover, and test cup 50 % full prior to any sample aliquot being taken. For biodiesel
assembly are illustrated in Figs. A1.1-A1.4, respectively. Di- (B100) samples, a typical one liter container filled to 85%
mensions are listed respectively. volume is recommended.
6.2 Pensky-Martens Closed Cup Apparatus (Automated)5— 8.3 Successive test specimens can be taken from the same
This apparatus is an automated flash point instrument that is sample container. Repeat tests have been shown to be within
capable of performing the test in accordance with Section 11 the precisions of the method when the second specimen is
(Procedure A), Section 12 (Procedure B), and 13 (Procedure C) taken with the sample container at least 50 % filled. The results
of these test methods. The apparatus shall use the test cup, test of flash point determinations can be affected if the sample
cover and shutter, stirring device, heating source, and ignition volume is less than 50 % of sample container capacity.
source device described in detail in Annex A1. 8.4 Erroneously high flash points may be obtained if pre-
6.3 Temperature Measuring Device—Thermometer having cautions are not taken to avoid the loss of volatile material. Do
a range as shown as follows and conforming to the require- not open containers unnecessarily, to prevent loss of volatile
ments prescribed in Specification E1 or in Annex A3, or an material or possible introduction of moisture, or both. Avoid
electronic temperature measuring device, such as resistance storage of samples at temperatures in excess of 35°C or 95°F.
thermometers or thermocouples. The device shall exhibit the Samples for storage shall be capped tightly with inner seals. Do
same temperature response as the mercury thermometers. not make a transfer unless the sample temperature is at least the
Thermometer Number
equivalent of 18°C or 32°F below the expected flash point.
Temperature Range ASTM IP 8.5 Do not store samples in gas-permeable containers, since
−5 to +110°C (20 to 230°F) 9C (9F) 15C
+10 to 200°C (50 to 392°F) 88C (88F) 101C volatile material may diffuse through the walls of the enclo-
+90 to 370°C (200 to 700°F) 10C (10F) 16C sure. Samples in leaky containers are suspect and not a source
6.4 Ignition Source—Natural gas flame, bottled gas flame, of valid results.
and electric ignitors (hot wire) have been found acceptable for 8.6 Samples of very viscous materials shall be heated in
use as the ignition source. The gas flame device described in their containers, with lid/cap slightly loosened to avoid buildup
detailed in Fig. A1.4 requires the use of the pilot flame of dangerous pressure, at the lowest temperature adequate to
described in A1.1.2.3. The electric ignitors shall be of the liquefy any solids, not exceeding 28°C or 50°F below the
hot-wire type and shall position the heated section of the expected flash point, for 30 min. If the sample is then not
ignitor in the aperture of the test cover in the same manner as completely liquefied, extend the heating period for additional
the gas flame device. (Warning—Gas pressure supplied to the 30 min periods as necessary. Then gently agitate the sample to
apparatus should not be allowed to exceed 3 kPa (12 in.) of provide mixing, such as orbiting the container horizontally,
water pressure.) before transferring to the specimen cup. No sample shall be
6.5 Barometer—With accuracy of 60.5 kPa. heated and transferred unless its temperatures is more than
18°C or 32°F below its expected flash point. When the sample
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NOTE 4—The barometric pressure used in this calculation is the ambient

pressure for the laboratory at the time of the test. Many aneroid has been heated above this temperature, allow the sample to
barometers, such as those used at weather stations and airports, are cool until its temperature is at least 18°C or 32°F below the
precorrected to give sea level readings and would not give the correct expected flash point before transferring.
reading for this test.
NOTE 5—Volatile vapors can escape during heating when the sample
7. Reagents and Materials container is not properly sealed.
NOTE 6—Some viscous samples may not completely liquefy even after
7.1 Cleaning Solvents—Use suitable solvent capable of prolonged periods of heating. Care should be exercised when increasing
cleaning out the specimen from the test cup and drying the test the heating temperature to avoid unnecessary loss of volatile vapors, or
cup and cover. Some commonly used solvents are toluene and heating the sample too close to the flash point.
acetone. (Warning—Toluene, acetone, and many solvents are 8.7 Samples containing dissolved or free water may be
flammable and a health hazard. Dispose of solvents and waste dehydrated with calcium chloride or by filtering through a
material in accordance with local regulations.) qualitative filter paper or a loose plug of dry absorbent cotton.
Warming the sample is permitted, but it shall not be heated for
8. Sampling prolonged periods or greater than a temperature of 18°C32°F
8.1 Obtain a sample in accordance with instructions given in below its expected flash point.
Practices D4057, D4177, or E300. NOTE 7—If the sample is suspected of containing volatile contaminants,
the treatment described in 8.6 and 8.7 should be omitted.
8.2 At least 75 mL of sample is required for each test. Refer
to Practice D4057. When obtaining a sample of residual fuel 9. Preparation of Apparatus
oil, the sample container shall be from 85 to 95 % full. For 9.1 Support the manual or automated apparatus on a level
steady surface, such as a table.
5
Supporting data regarding a variant of the cover locking mechanism have been
9.2 Tests are to be performed in a draft-free room or
filed at ASTM International Headquarters and may be obtained by requesting compartment. Tests made in a laboratory hood or in any
Research Report RR:D02-1706. location where drafts occur are not reliable.

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 D93 − 13
NOTE 8—A shield, of the approximate dimensions 460 mm (18 in.) PROCEDURE A
square and 610 mm (24 in.) high, or other suitable dimensions, and having
an open front is recommended to prevent drafts from disturbing the vapors 11. Procedure
above the test cup. 11.1 Manual Apparatus:
NOTE 9—With some samples whose vapors or products of pyrolysis are 11.1.1 Ensure that the sample container is filled to the
objectionable, it is permissible to place the apparatus along with a draft
shield in a ventilation hood, the draft of which is adjustable so that vapors
volume capacity requirement specified in 8.2. Fill the test cup
can be withdrawn without causing air currents over the test cup during the with the test specimen to the filling mark inside of the test cup.
ignition source application period. The temperature of the test cup and test specimen shall be at
least 18°C or 32°F below the expected flash point. If too much
9.3 Prepare the manual apparatus or the automated appara- test specimen has been added to the test cup, remove the excess
tus for operation in accordance with the manufacturer’s in- using a syringe or similar device for withdrawal of fluid. Place
structions for calibrating, checking, and operating the equip- the test cover on the test cup and place the assembly into the
ment. (Warning—Gas pressure should not be allowed to apparatus. Be sure the locating or locking device is properly
exceed 3 kPa (12 in.) of water pressure. ) engaged. If the temperature measuring device is not already in
9.4 Thoroughly clean and dry all parts of the test cup and its place, insert the device into its holder.
accessories before starting the test, to ensure the removal of 11.1.2 Light the test flame, and adjust it to a diameter of 3.2
any solvent which had been used to clean the apparatus. Use to 4.8 mm (0.126 to 0.189 in.), or switch on the electric igniter
suitable solvent capable of removing all of the specimen from and adjust the intensity in accordance with the manufacturer’s
the test cup and drying the test cup and cover. Some commonly instructions. (Warning—Gas pressure should not be allowed
to exceed 3 kPa (12 in.) of water pressure.) (Warning—
used solvents are toluene and acetone. (Warning—Toluene,
Exercise care when using a gas test flame. If it should be
acetone, and many solvents are flammable. Health hazard.
extinguished it will not ignite the vapors in the test cup, and the
Dispose of solvents and waste material in accordance with
gas for the test flame that then enters the vapor space can
local regulations.)
influence the result.) (Warning—The operator should exercise
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and take appropriate safety precautions during the initial

10. Verification of Apparatus application of the ignition source, since test specimens con-
10.1 Adjust the automated flash point detection system taining low-flash material can give an abnormally strong flash
(when used) in accordance with the manufacturer’s instruc- when the ignition source is first applied.) (Warning—The
tions. operator should exercise and take appropriate safety precau-
tions during the performance of these test methods. The
10.2 Verify that the temperature measuring device is in temperatures attained during these test methods, up to 370°C
accordance with 6.3. (698°F), are considered hazardous.) (Warning—As a safety
10.3 Verify the performance of the manual apparatus or the practice, when using automated or manual apparatus, it is
automated apparatus at least once per year by determining the strongly advised, before heating the test cup and specimen, to
flash point of a certified reference material (CRM) such as dip the ignitor to check for the presence of unexpected volatile
those listed in Annex A4, which is reasonably close to the material.)
expected temperature range of the samples to be tested. The 11.1.3 Apply the heat at such a rate that the temperature, as
indicated by the temperature measuring device, increases 5 to
material shall be tested according to Procedure A of these test
6°C (9 to 11°F)/min.
methods and the observed flash point obtained in 11.1.8 or
11.1.4 Turn the stirring device at 90 to 120 rpm, stirring in
11.2.2 shall be corrected for barometric pressure (see Section
a downward direction. (Warning—Meticulous attention to all
14). The flash point obtained shall be within the limits stated in
details relating to the ignition source, size of test flame or
Table A4.1 for the identified CRM or within the limits
intensity of the electric ignitor, rate of temperature increase,
calculated for an unlisted CRM (see Annex A4). and rate of dipping the ignition source into the vapor of the test
10.4 Once the performance of the apparatus has been specimen is desirable for good results.)
verified, the flash point of secondary working standards 11.1.5 Application of Ignition Source:
(SWSs) can be determined along with their control limits. 11.1.5.1 If the test specimen is expected to have a flash point
These secondary materials can then be utilized for more of 110°C or 230°F or below, apply the ignition source when the
frequent performance checks (see Annex A4). temperature of the test specimen is 23 6 5°C or 41 6 9°F
below the expected flash point and each time thereafter at a
10.5 When the flash point obtained is not within the limits temperature reading that is a multiple of 1°C or 2°F. Discon-
stated in 10.3 or 10.4, check the condition and operation of the tinue the stirring of the test specimen and apply the ignition
apparatus to ensure conformity with the details listed in Annex source by operating the mechanism on the test cover which
A1, especially with regard to tightness of the lid (A1.1.2.2), the controls the shutter so that the ignition source is lowered into
action of the shutter, the position of the ignition source the vapor space of the test cup in 0.5 s, left in its lowered
(A1.1.2.3), and the angle and position of the temperature position for 1 s, and quickly raised to its upward position.
measuring device (A1.1.2.4). After any adjustment, repeat the 11.1.5.2 If the test specimen is expected to have a flash point
test in 10.3 using a fresh test specimen, with special attention above 110°C or 230°F, apply the ignition source in the manner
to the procedural details prescribed in these test methods. described in 11.1.5.1 at each temperature increase of 2°C or

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5°F, beginning at a temperature of 23 6 5°C or 41 6 9°F is detected at a temperature which is less than 18°C or 32°F
below the expected flash point. (Warning— As a safety above the temperature of the first application of the ignition
practice, when using automated or manual apparatus, it is source, the result shall be considered approximate, and the test
strongly advised that, for an expected flash point above 130°C, repeated with a fresh test specimen. Adjust the expected flash
to dip the ignitor every 10°C throughout the test until the point for this next test to the temperature of the approximate
sample temperature reaches 28°C below the expected flash result. The first application of the ignition source with the fresh
point and then follow the prescribed dipping procedure. This test specimen shall be 23 6 5°C or 416 9°F below the
practice has been shown to reduce the possibility of a fire, and, temperature at which the approximate result was found.
on average, not to significantly affect the result. A limited 11.1.12 When the apparatus has cooled down to a safe
study6 has shown that this dipping practice has no observable handling temperature, less than 55°C (130°F), remove the test
effect on test method repeatability.) cover and the test cup and clean the apparatus as recommended
11.1.6 When testing materials to determine if volatile ma- by the manufacturer.
terial contamination is present, it is not necessary to adhere to NOTE 11—Exercise care when cleaning and positioning the lid assem-
the temperature limits for initial ignition source application as bly so not to damage or dislocate the flash detection system or temperature
stated in 11.1.5. measuring device. See the manufacturer’s instructions for proper care and
11.1.7 When testing materials where the expected flash maintenance.
point temperature is not known, bring the material to be tested 11.2 Automated Apparatus:
and the tester to a temperature of 15 6 5°C or 60 6 10°F. 11.2.1 The automated apparatus shall be capable of per-
When the material is known to be very viscous at this forming the procedure as described in 11.1, including control
temperature, heat the specimen to a starting temperature as of the heating rate, stirring of the test specimen, application of
described in 8.6. Apply the ignition source, in the manner the ignition source, detection of the flash point, and recording
described in 11.1.5.1, beginning at least 5°C or 10°F higher the flash point.
than the starting temperature. 11.2.2 Start the automated apparatus in accordance with the
NOTE 10—Flash Point results determined in an “unknown expected manufacturer’s instructions. (Warning—Failure to install the
flash point mode” should be considered approximate. This value can be sample temperature measuring device correctly, when using
used as the expected flash point when a fresh specimen is tested in the automated apparatus, can result in uncontrolled heating of the
standard mode of operation. test portion and potentially a fire. Some automated apparatus
11.1.8 Record as the observed flash point the reading on the include provisions to avoid this occurrence.) The apparatus
temperature measuring device at the time ignition source shall follow the procedural details described in 11.1.3 through
application causes a distinct flash in the interior of the test cup. 11.1.8.

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The sample is deemed to have flashed when a large flame
appears and instantaneously propagates itself over the entire PROCEDURE B
surface of the test specimen. (Warning—For certain mixtures 12. Procedure
containing halogenated hydrocarbons, such as, methylene chlo-
ride or trichloroethylene, no distinct flash, as defined, is 12.1 Manual Apparatus:
observed. Instead a significant enlargement of the test flame 12.1.1 Ensure that the sample container is filled to the
(not halo effect) and change in color of the test flame from blue volume capacity requirement specified in 8.2. Fill the test cup
to yellowish-orange occurs. Continued heating and testing of with the test specimen to the filling mark inside of the test cup.
these samples above ambient temperature can result in signifi- The temperature of the test cup and test specimen shall be at
cant burning of vapors outside the test cup, and can be a least 18°C or 32°F below the expected flash point. If too much
potential fire hazard. See Appendix X1 and Appendix X2 for test specimen has been added to the test cup, remove the excess
more information.) using a syringe or similar device for withdrawal of fluid. Place
11.1.9 When the ignition source is a test flame, the appli- the test cover on the test cup and place the assembly into the
cation of the test flame can cause a blue halo or an enlarged apparatus. Be sure the locating or locking device is properly
flame prior to the actual flash point. This is not a flash and shall engaged. If the temperature measuring device is not already in
be ignored. place, insert the device into its holder.
11.1.10 When a flash point is detected on the first 12.1.2 Light the test flame and adjust it to a diameter of 3.2
application, the test shall be discontinued, the result discarded, to 4.8 mm (0.126 to 0.189 in.), or switch on the electric igniter
and the test repeated with a fresh test specimen. The first and adjust the intensity in accordance with the manufacturer’s
application of the ignition source with the fresh test specimen instructions. (Warning—Gas pressure should not be allowed
shall be 23 6 5°C or 41 6 9°F below the temperature at which to exceed 3 kPa (12 in.) of water pressure.) (Warning—
a flash point was detected on the first application. Exercise care when using a gas test flame. If it should be
11.1.11 When a flash point is detected at a temperature extinguished it will not ignite the vapors in the test cup and the
which is greater than 28°C or 50°F above the temperature of gas for the test flame that then enters the vapor space can
the first application of the ignition source, or when a flash point influence the result.) (Warning—The operator should exercise
and take appropriate safety precautions during the initial
application of the ignition source, since test specimens con-
6
Supporting data have been filed at ASTM International Headquarters and may taining low-flash material may give an abnormally strong flash
be obtained by requesting Research Report RR:D02-1652. when the ignition source is first applied.) (Warning—The

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 D93 − 13
operator should exercise and take appropriate safety precau- 13.4 Apply the heat at such a rate that the temperature as
tions during the performance of these test methods. The indicated by the temperature measuring device increases 3.0 6
temperatures attained during these test methods, up to 370°C 0.5°C/min.
(698°F), are considered hazardous.)
13.5 Turn the stirring device at 90 to 120 rpm, stirring in a
12.1.3 Turn the stirring device at 250 6 10 rpm, stirring in
downward direction. (Warning—Meticulous attention to all
a downward direction.
details relating to the ignition source, size of test flame, rate of
12.1.4 Apply the heat at such a rate that the temperature as temperature increase, and rate of dipping the ignition source
indicated by the temperature measuring device increases 1 to
into the vapor of the test specimen is desirable for good
1.6°C (2 to 3°F)/min.
results.)
12.1.5 Proceed as prescribed in Section 11, with the excep-
tion of the preceding requirements for rates of stirring and 13.6 Application of Ignition Source—The first test on the
heating. sample shall use an expected flash point of 100°C.
12.2 Automated Apparatus: 13.7 Apply the ignition source when the temperature of the
12.2.1 The automated apparatus shall be capable of per- test specimen is approximately 24°C below the expected flash
forming the procedure as described in 12.1, including control point and each time thereafter at a temperature reading that is
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of the heating rate, stirring of the test specimen, application of a multiple of 2°C. Discontinue the stirring of the test specimen
the ignition source, detection of the flash point, and recording and apply the ignition source by operating the mechanism on
the flash point. the test cover which controls the shutter so that the ignition
12.2.2 Start the automated apparatus in accordance with the source is lowered into the vapor space of the test cup in 0.5 s,
manufacturer’s instructions. The apparatus shall follow the left in its lowered position for 1 s, and quickly raised to its
procedural details in accordance with 12.1.3 through 12.1.5. upward position.
Procedure C 13.8 Record as the flash point the reading on the tempera-
ture measuring device at the time the ignition source applica-
13. Procedure tion causes a distinct flash in the interior of the test cup which
is detected by the electronic device.
13.1 Automated Apparatus—Ensure that the apparatus is
equipped with an electronic measuring system for the detection 13.9 The application of the test flame can cause a blue halo
of the flash point. or an enlarged flame prior to the actual flash point. This is not
13.2 Ensure that the sample container is filled to the volume a flash and shall be ignored.
capacity requirement specified in 8.2. Fill the test cup with the 13.10 When a flash point is detected on the first application,
test specimen to the filling mark inside of the test cup. The the test shall be discontinued, the result discarded, and the test
temperature of the test cup and test specimen shall be at least repeated with a fresh test specimen. The first application of the
24°C below the expected flash point. If too much test specimen ignition source with the fresh test specimen shall be approxi-
has been added to the test cup, remove the excess using a mately 24°C below the temperature at which a flash point was
syringe or similar device for withdrawal of fluid. Place the test
detected on the first application.
cover on the test cup and place the assembly into the apparatus.
Be sure the locating or locking device is properly engaged. If 13.11 When a flash point is detected at a temperature which
the temperature measuring device is not already in place, insert is greater than 30°C above the temperature of the first
the device into its holder. application of the ignition source, or when a flash point is
13.3 Light the test flame, and adjust it to a diameter of 3.2 detected at a temperature which is less than 16°C above the
to 4.8 mm (0.126 to 0.189 in.) or switch on the electric igniter temperature of the first application of the ignition source, the
and adjust the intensity in accordance with the manufacturer’s result shall be considered approximate, and the test repeated
instructions. (Warning—Gas pressure should not be allowed with a fresh test specimen. Adjust the expected flash point for
to exceed 3 kPa (12 in. of water pressure.) (Warning— this next test to the temperature of the approximate result. The
Exercise care when using a gas test flame. If it should be first application of the ignition source with the fresh test
extinguished it will not ignite the vapors in the test cup, and the specimen shall be approximately 24°C below the temperature
gas for the test flame that then enters the vapor space can at which the approximate result was found.
influence the result.) (Warning—The operator should exercise
and take appropriate safety precautions during the initial 13.12 When the apparatus has cooled down to a safe
application of the ignition source, since test specimens con- handling temperature, less than 55°C, remove the test cover
taining low-flash material can give an abnormally strong flash and the test cup and clean the apparatus as recommended by
when the ignition source is first applied.) (Warning—The the manufacturer.
operator should exercise and take appropriate safety precau- NOTE 12—Exercise care when cleaning and positioning the lid assem-
tions during the performance of these test methods. The bly so not to damage or dislocate the flash detection system or temperature
temperatures attained during these test methods, up to 370°C measuring device. See the manufacturer’s instructions for proper care and
(698°F), are considered hazardous.) maintenance.

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 D93 − 13
PRECISION, CALCULATION, AND REPORT FOR ity variances of manual and automated Pensky-Martens flash
PROCEDURES A, B, OR C point results for the samples studied. Evaluation of the data did
not detect any significant difference between averages of
14. Calculation manual and automated Pensky-Martens flash point for the
14.1 Observe and record the ambient barometric pressure samples studied with the exception of cycle oil and fuel oil
(see Note 4) at the time of the test. When the pressure differs which showed some bias. In any case of dispute, the manual
from 101.3 kPa (760 mm Hg), correct the flash point as procedure shall be considered the referee test.
follows: NOTE 13—The precision statements were derived on clear liquids only.
Corrected flash point 5 C10.25 ~ 101.3 2 K ! (1) Refer to the research report7 for information regarding relative bias and
types of samples. Additional studies are in progress concerning relative
Corrected flash point 5 F10.06 ~ 760 2 P ! (2) bias.
Corrected flash point 5 C10.033 ~ 760 2 P ! (3)

--``,`,``,`,,,`,,,````````,,,``,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
16.1.5 The precision data were developed from a combined
where: 1991 ASTM cooperative test program7 using 5 samples of fuel
and lubricating oils (Twelve laboratories participated with the
C = observed flash point, °C,
F = observed flash point, °F, manual apparatus and 21 laboratories participated with the
P = ambient barometric pressure, mm Hg, and automated equipment) and a 1994 IP cooperative test program
K = ambient barometric pressure, kPa. using 12 fuel samples and 4 pure chemicals. (Twenty-six
laboratories participated with manual and automated equip-
14.2 After correction for barometric pressure, round the ment. The apparatus used either a gas test flame or an electric
temperature to the nearest 0.5°C (1°F) and record. resistance (hot wire) device for the ignition source. Information
15. Report on the type of samples and their average flash point are in the
research report.7
15.1 Report the corrected flash point as the ASTM D93–IP
34, Procedure A or Procedure B or Procedure C Pensky- 17. Precision and Bias (Procedure B)
Martens Closed Cup Flash Point of the test specimen.
17.1 Precision—The precision of this procedure, as deter-
16. Precision and Bias (Procedure A) mined by the statistical examination of the interlaboratory test
results, is as follows:
16.1 Precision—The precision of this procedure as deter-
17.1.1 Repeatability—The difference between successive
mined by the statistical examination of the interlaboratory test
results obtained by the same operator with the same apparatus
results, is as follows:
under constant operating conditions on identical test materials
16.1.1 Repeatability—The difference between successive
would, in the long run, in the normal and correct operation of
results, obtained by the same operator with the same apparatus
the test method, exceed the following value in 1 case in 20:
under constant operating conditions on identical test material,
would in the long run, in the normal and correct operation of Residual fuel oil 2°C
Other types 5°C
the test method, exceed the following values in 1 case in 20.
17.1.2 Reproducibility—The difference between two single
r 5 AX, (4) and independent results obtained by different operators work-
A 5 0.029,
ing in different laboratories on identical material would, in the
long run, exceed the following value only in 1 case in 20:
X 5 mean result in °C, and Residual fuel oil 6°C
Other types 10°C
r 5 repeatability. NOTE 14—The precisions of these standards were derived from inter-
laboratory studies conducted in degrees Celsius.
16.1.2 Reproducibility—The difference between two single 17.1.3 Bias—Since there is no accepted reference material
and independent results, obtained by different operators work- suitable for determining the bias for the procedure in these test
ing in different laboratories on identical material, would in the methods, bias has not been determined.
long run, in the normal and correct operation of the test 17.1.4 The precision data for residual fuel oils were devel-
method, exceed the following values only in 1 case in 20. oped in a 1996 cooperative test program conducted by the IP
R 5 BX, (5) using 12 samples of residual fuel and 40 laboratories world-
wide using both the manual and automated apparatus. Infor-
B 5 0.071, mation on the type of samples and their average flash point are
X 5 mean result in °C, and
in the research report.
17.1.5 The precision data for other sample types in Proce-
R 5 reproducibility. dure B is not known to have been developed in accordance
with RR:D02-1007.
16.1.3 Bias—Since there is no accepted reference material
suitable for determining the bias for the procedure in these test
methods, bias has not been determined. 7
Supporting data (the results of the 1991 interlaboratory cooperative test
16.1.4 Relative Bias—Statistical evaluation of the data did program) have been filed at ASTM International Headquarters and may be obtained
not detect any significant difference between the reproducibil- by requesting Research Report RR:S15-1008.

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 D93 − 13
NOTE 15—Procedure B was not tested in the 1991 interlaboratory 14.7°C
program.
NOTE 16—The precisions of these standards were derived from inter-
18. Precision and Bias (Procedure C)8 laboratory studies conducted in degrees Celsius.
18.1 Precision—The precision of this procedure, as deter- 18.1.3 Bias—Since there is no accepted reference material
mined by the statistical examination of the interlaboratory test suitable for determining the bias for the procedure in these test
results, is as follows: methods, bias has not been determined.
18.1.1 Repeatability—The difference between successive 18.1.4 The precision data for biodiesel were developed in a
results obtained by the same operator with the same apparatus 2008 cooperative interlaboratory test program8 using 9 samples
under constant operating conditions on identical test materials of biodiesel (B100) of various source and 17 samples of the
would, in the long run, in the normal and correct operation of same biodiesel dosed with concentrations of alcohol from 0.1
the test method, exceed the following value in 1 case in 20: to 0.3%. Various automated apparatus in 11 laboratories
8.4°C participated. The precision was calculated on the flash point
range from 60 to 190°C. The alcohol concentrations were
18.1.2 Reproducibility—The difference between two single
verified in separate laboratories using EN 14110. Information
and independent results obtained by different operators work-
on the type of samples and their average flash point are in the
ing in different laboratories on identical material would, in the
research report.
long run, in the normal and correct operation of the test
method, exceed the following value only in 1 case in 20:
19. Keywords
8
19.1 automated flash point; automated Pensky-Martens
Supporting data (the results of the 2008 interlaboratory cooperative test
program) have been filed at ASTM International Headquarters and may be obtained closed cup; flammability; flash point; Pensky-Martens closed
by requesting Research Report RR:D02-1683. cup

ANNEXES

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(Mandatory Information)

A1. APPARATUS SPECIFICATIONS5

A1.1 A typical assembly of the apparatus, gas heated, is pletely opened. The mechanism operating the shutter should be
shown in Fig. A1.1. The apparatus shall consist of a test cup, of the spring type and constructed so that when at rest the
cover, and stove conforming to the following requirements: shutter shall exactly close the three openings. When operated
A1.1.1 Cup—The cup shall be of brass, or other nonrusting to the other extreme, the three cover openings shall be exactly
metal of equivalent heat conductivity, and shall conform to the open and the tip of the exposure tube shall be fully depressed.
dimensional requirements in Fig. A1.2. The flange shall be A1.1.2.3 Flame-Ignition Device—The flame-ignition device
equipped with devices for locating the position of the cup in the (Fig. A1.4) shall have a tip with an opening 0.69 to 0.79 mm
stove. A handle attached to the flange of the cup is a desirable (0.027 to 0.031 in.) in diameter. This tip shall be made
accessory. The handle shall not be so heavy as to tip over the preferably of stainless steel, although it may be fabricated of
empty cup. other suitable metals. The flame-exposure device shall be
A1.1.2 Cover: equipped with an operating mechanism which, when the
A1.1.2.1 Cover Proper—The cover shown in Fig. A1.3 shall shutter is in the open position, depresses the tip so that the
be of brass (A1.1.1) and shall have a rim projecting downward center of the orifice is between the planes of the under and
almost to the flange of the cup. The rim shall fit the outside of upper surfaces of the cover proper at a point on a radius passing
the cup with a clearance not exceeding 0.36 mm (0.014 in.) on through the center of the larger opening A (Fig. A1.3). An
the diameter. There shall be a locating or locking device, or electric ignitor is also suitable. The electric ignitors shall be of
both, engaging with a corresponding device on the cup. The the electric resistance (hot-wire) type and shall position the
upper edge of the cup shall be in close contact with the inner
heated section of the ignitor in the aperture of the test cover in
face of the cover throughout its circumference.
the same manner as the gas flame device.
A1.1.2.2 Shutter—The cover shall be equipped with a brass
shutter (Fig. A1.1 and Fig. A1.4), approximately 2.4 mm (3⁄32 A1.1.2.4 Pilot Flame—A pilot flame shall be provided for
in.) thick, operating on the plane of the upper surface of the automatic relighting of the exposure flame. A bead 4 mm (5⁄32
cover. The shutter shall be so shaped and mounted that it in.) in diameter can be mounted on the cover so that the size
rotates on the axis of the horizontal center of the cover between of the test flame can be regulated by comparison. The tip of the
two stops, so placed, that when in one extreme position, the pilot flame shall have an opening the same size as the tip of the
openings A, B, and C in the cover are completely closed, and flame exposure device (0.69 to 0.79 mm (0.027 to 0.031 in.) in
when in the other extreme position, these openings are com- diameter).

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 D93 − 13

NOTE 1—Lid assembly can be positioned either right or left-handed.

FIG. A1.1 Pensky-Martens Closed Flash Tester

A1.1.2.5 Stirring Device—The cover shall be equipped with propeller are at 0 and 180° while the blades of the other
a stirring device (Fig. A1.4) mounted in the center of the cover propeller are at 90 and 270°. A stirrer shaft may be coupled to
and carrying two 2-bladed metal propellers. In Fig. A1.4 lower the motor by a flexible shaft or a suitable arrangement of
propeller is designated by the letters L, M, and N. This pulleys.
propeller shall measure approximately 38 mm from tip to tip, A1.1.2.6 Stove—Heat shall be supplied to the cup by means
with each of its two blades 8 mm in width with a pitch of 45°. of a properly designed stove which is equivalent to an air bath.
The upper propeller is designated by the letters A, C, and G. The stove shall consist of an air bath and a top plate on which
This propeller measures approximately 19 mm, tip to tip, each the flange of the cup rests.
of its two blades is also 8 mm in width with a pitch of 45°. Both A1.1.2.7 Air Bath—The air bath shall have a cylindrical
propellers are located on the stirrer shaft in such a manner that, interior and shall conform to the dimensional requirements in
when viewed from the bottom of the stirrer, the blades of one Fig. A1.1. The air bath may be either a flame or electrically
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 D93 − 13

mm (in.)
min max (min) (max)
D 12.7 13.5 (0.50) (0.53)
E 4.8 5.6 (0.19) (0.22)
mm (in.) F 13.5 14.3 (0.53) (0.56)
min max (min) (max) G 23.8 24.6 (0.94) (0.97)
H 1.2 2.0 (0.05) (0.08)
A 79.0 79.8 (3.11) (3.14) I 7.9 ... (0.31) (...)
B 1.0 ... (0.04) (...) J 12.00 12.32 (0.472) (0.485)
C 2.8 3.6 (0.11) (0.14) K 16.38 17.00 (0.645) (0.669)
D 21.72 21.84 (0.855) (0.860) L 18.65 19.45 (0.734) (0.766)

--``,`,``,`,,,`,,,````````,,,``,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
E 45.47 45.72 (1.790) (1.800)
F 50.72 50.85 (1.997) (2.002)
G 55.75 56.00 (2.195) (2.205)
FIG. A1.3 Cover Proper
H 3.8 4.0 (0.15) (0.16)
I 53.90 54.02 (2.122) (2.127) A1.1.2.9 Heater, Electric Resistance —If the heater is of the
J 2.29 2.54 (0.090) (0.100) electric resistance type, it shall be constructed so that all parts
of the interior surface are heated uniformly. The wall and
FIG. A1.2 Test Cup
bottom of the air bath shall not be less than 6.4 mm (1⁄4 in.) in
thickness unless the resistance heating elements are distributed
heated metal casting (A1.1.2.8), or an electric-resistance ele- over at least 80 % of the wall and all the bottom of the air bath.
ment (A1.1.2.9). In either case, the air bath must be suitable for A heater having such a distribution shall have the heating
use at the temperatures to which it will be subjected without elements positioned at least 4.0 mm (5⁄32 in.) away from the
deformation. internal surface of the air bath in conjunction with a minimum
A1.1.2.8 Heater, Flame or Electric —If the heating element thickness of 1.58 mm (1⁄16 in.) for the wall and bottom of the
is a flame or an electric heater, it shall be so designed and used air bath.
that the temperatures of the bottom and the walls are approxi- A1.1.2.10 Top Plate—The top plate shall be of metal, and
mately the same. In order that the air bath internal surfaces shall be mounted with an air gap between it and the air bath. It
should be at a uniform temperature, it should not be less than may be attached to the air bath by means of three screws and
6.4 mm (1⁄4 in.) in thickness unless the heating element is spacing bushings. The bushings should be of proper thickness
designed to give equal heat flux densities over all the wall and to define an air gap of 4.8 mm (3 ⁄16 in.), and they shall be not
bottom surfaces. more than 9.5 mm (3⁄8 in.) in diameter.

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 D93 − 13

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mm (in.)
min max (min) (max)
A 18.3 19.8 (0.72) (0.78)
B 2.38 3.18 (0.094) (0.125)
C 7.6 8.4 (0.30) (0.33)
D 2.0 2.8 (0.08) (0.11)
E 0.69 0.79 (0.027) (0.031)
F 2.0 2.8 (0.08) (0.11)
G 6.4 10.4 (0.25) (0.41)
H 9.6 11.2 (0.38) (0.44)
IA 43.0 46.0 (1.69) (1.81)
J 50.0 51.6 (1.97) (2.03)
K ... 0.36 (...) (0.014)
L 1.22 2.06 (0.048) (0.08)
M 31.8 44.4 (1.25) (1.75)
N 7.6 8.4 (0.30) (0.33)
A
Includes tolerance for length of thermometer given in Specification E1.

FIG. A1.4 Test Cup and Cover Assembly

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 D93 − 13

A2. MANUFACTURING STANDARDIZATION OF THERMOMETER AND FERRULE

A2.1 The low-range thermometer, which conforms also to

the specification for the cup thermometer in the tag closed
tester (Test Method D56) and which frequently is fitted with a
metal ferrule intended to fit the collar on the cover of the tag
flash tester, can be supplemented by an adapter (Fig. A2.1) to
be used in the larger diameter collar of the Pensky-Martens
apparatus. Differences in dimensions of these collars, which do
not affect test results, are a source of unnecessary trouble to
manufacturers and suppliers of instruments, as well as to users.
A2.2 Dimensional requirements are shown in Fig. A2.1.
Conformity to these requirements is not mandatory, but is
desirable to users as well as suppliers of Pensky-Martens
testers.
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 D93 − 13

mm (in.)
min max (min) (max)
A 6.20 6.50 (0.244) (0.256)
B 17.0 18.0 (0.67) (0.71)
C 9.80 9.85 (0.386) (0.388)

--``,`,``,`,,,`,,,````````,,,``,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
D 11.92 12.24 (0.469) (0.482)
E 1.40 1.65 (0.055) (0.065)
F 8.56 8.61 (0.337) (0.339)
G 12.4 13.0 (0.49) (0.57)
H 8.56 8.61 (0.337) (0.339)
I 8.1 8.6 (0.32) (0.34)
J 9.9 10.7 (0.39) (0.42)
K 8.64 8.69 (0.340) (0.342)
L 5.1 5.6 (0.20) (0.22)
M 17.0 17.5 (0.67) (0.69)
N 27.4 28.2 (1.08) (1.11)
O 7.11 7.16 (0.280) (0.282)
P 9.73 9.78 (0.383) (0.385)

FIG. A2.1 Dimensions for Thermometer Adapter, Ferrule, and Packing Ring

A3. THERMOMETER SPECIFICATIONS

A3.1 See Fig. A3.1 and Tables A3.1-A3.4.

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 D93 − 13

FIG. A3.1 Test Gage for Checking Enlargements on Thermometers

TABLE A3.1 IP Thermometer Specifications

NOTE 1—The stem shall be made with an enlargement having a diameter of 1.5 to 2.0 mm greater than the stem and a length of 3 to 5 mm, the bottom
of the enlargement being 64 to 66 mm from the bottom of the bulb. These dimensions shall be measured with the test gage shown in Fig. A3.1.
IP 15C IP 16C IP 101C
Name
Pensky-Martens Low Pensky-Martens High Pensky-Martens Medium
Range −5 to + 110°C 90 to 370°C 20 to 150°C
Graduation 0.5°C 2°C 1°C
Immersion, mm 57 57 57
Overall length ±5 mm 290 280 ± 10 290
Stem diameter, mm 6.0 to 7.0 6.0 to 7.0 6.0 to 7.0
Bulb shape cylindrical cylindrical cylindrical
Bulb length, mm 9 to 13 7 to 10 9 to 13
Bulb diameter, mm not less than 5.5 and not less than 4.5 and not less than 5.5 and
not greater than not greater than not greater than
stem stem stem
Length of graduated portion, 140 to 175 143 to 180 140 to 175
mm
Distance bottom of bulb to, 0°C 90°C 20°C
mm 85 to 95 80 to 90 85 to 95
Longer lines at each 1 and 5°C 10 and 20°C 5°C
Figured at each 5°C 20°C 5°C
Expansion chamber required required required
Top finish ring ring ring
Scale error not to exceed ± 0.5°C 1 to 260°C 1°C
2°C above 260°C
See notes 1 and Table A3.2 for 1 and Table A3.2 for 1 and Table A3.2 for
emergent stem emergent stem emergent stem
temperatures temperatures temperatures

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 TABLE A3.2 Specifications for ASTM Thermometers

Copyright ASTM International

All dimensions are in millimetres.
See Table A3.3 for Standardization Temperature.

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Expan-
sion Ice Point Contraction
Graduations Bulb Scale Location Stem Enlargement
Cham- Scale Chamber
ber
ASTM
For Im- Scale Special Total Bot- Bot- Bot-
Number Stem Dis-
Range Test mer- Error, Inscrip- Length tom tom tom Dis- Dis-
and Long Num- OD tance
at sion max tion Permit ±5 of of of tance tance
Name Sub- Lines ber Dis- to
Heat- Length OD Bulb Distance Bulb Range Bulb to OD Length to
divisions at at tance Bot-
ing to to to to Top, Bot-
Each Each tom,
Line Line Ice max tom
min
at at Point
B C D E F G H I J K L M
9C-62 –5 to 57 0.5°C 1°C 5°C 0.5°C ASTM 160°C 287 6.0 9.0 not 0°C 85 100°C 221 7.5 2.5 64

15
greater
than
Pensky- +110°C 9C or to to stem to to to to to
9F
D93 − 13

A
Martens 57 mm 7.0 13 98 237 8.5 5.0 66
Low- IMM 32°F 212°F
Range
Tag (20 to 1°F 5°F 10°F 1°F 320°F
Closed
Tester 230°F)

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9F-62

B C
10C-62 90 to 57 2°C 10°C 20°C ASTM 287 6.0 8.0 4.5 110°C 86 360°C 227 7.5 2.5 64
Pensky- 370°C 10C or to to to to to to to to
Martens, 10F 7.0 10.0 6.0 99 245 8.5 5.0A 66
D
High- (200 to 5°F 25°F 50°F 57 mm 230°F 680°F
Range
10F-62 700°F) IMM

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A
The length of the enlargement, and the distance from the bottom of the enlargement to the bottom of the bulb shall be measured with the test gage shown in Fig. A3.1.
B
Scale error: 1°C up to 260°C; 2°C over 260°C.
C
An expansion chamber is provided for relief of gas pressure to avoid distortion of the bulb at higher temperatures. It is not for the purpose of joining mercury separations; and under no circumstances should the
thermometer be heated above the highest temperature reading.
D
Scale error: 2.5°F up to 500°F; 3.5°F over 500°F.

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 D93 − 13
TABLE A3.3 Standardization Temperatures
NOTE 1—The emergent column temperatures are those attained when using the thermometers in the test equipment for which the thermometers were
originally designed. In some cases these temperatures are markedly different from those realized during standardization.
Average Average Average Average
Tempera- Tempera- Tempera- Tempera-
Tempera- Tempera- Tempera- Tempera-
ture of ture of ture of ture of
ture ture ture ture
Emergent Emergent Emergent Emergent
Column Column Column Column
Thermometer 9C Thermometer 9F Thermometer 10C Thermometer 10F
(−5 to + 100°C) (20 to 230°F) (90 to 370°C) (200 to 700°F)
0°C 19°C 32°F 66°F 100°C 61°C 212°F 141°F
35°C 28°C 100°F 86°F 200°C 71°C 390°F 159°F
70°C 40°C 160°F 106°F 300°C 87°C 570°F 180°F
105°C 50°C 220°F 123°F 370°C 104°C 700°F 220°F
IP 15C (−7 to 110°C) IP 15F (20 to 230°F) IP 16C (90 to 370°C) IP 16F (20 to 700°F)
0°C 19°C 32°F 66°F 100°C 61°C 200°F 140°F
20°C 20°C 70°F 70°F 150°C 65°C 300°F 149°F
40°C 31°C 100°F 86°F 200°C 71°C 400°F 160°F
70°C 40°C 150°F 104°F 250°C 78°C 500°F 175°F
100°C 48°C 212°F 118°F 300°C 87°C 600°F 195°F
350°C 99°C 700°F 220°F

TABLE A3.4 Specifications for Medium-Range Pensky-Martens

ASTM No. 88F (88C) Vegetable Oil Flash Thermometer
Name Medium-Range Pensky-Martens
Reference Fig. No. 5
Range 10–200°C 50–392°F
For test at
A Immersion, mm 57
Graduations:
Subdivisions 0.5°C 1°F
Long lines at each 1°C and 5°C 5°F
Numbers at each 5°C 10°F
Scale error, max 0.5°C 1°F
Special inscription ASTM
88F (88C)
57 mm IMM
Expansion chamber:
Permit heating to 205°C 400°F
B Total length, mm 285 to 295
C Stem OD, mm 6.0 to 7.0
D Bulb length, mm 8.0 to 12.0
E Bulb OD, mm >4.5 and <stemA
Scale location:
Bottom of bulb to line at 20°C 68°F
F Distance, mm 80 to 90
G Length of graduated portion, mm 145 to 180
Ice-point scale:
Range
H Bottom of bulb to ice-point, mm
Contraction chamber:
I Distance to bottom, min, mm
J Distance to top, max, mm
Stem enlargement:
K OD, mm 7.5 to 8.5
L Length, mm 2.5 to 5.0A
M Distance to bottom, mm 64 to 66
A
Bulb OD shall be greater than 4.5 mm and less than the outside diameter of the stem (C).

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 D93 − 13

A4. VERIFICATION OF APPARATUS PERFORMANCE

A4.1 Certified Reference Material (CRM)—CRM is a for each material of the current production batch. Calculation
stable, pure (99 + mole % purity) hydrocarbon or other stable of the limits for these other CRMs can be determined from the
petroleum product with a method-specific flash point estab- reproducibility value of these test methods, reduced by inter-
lished by a method-specific interlaboratory study following laboratory effect and then multiplied by 0.7. See Research
ASTM RR:D02-1007 guidelines or ISO Guide 34 and 35. Report RR:S15-1008.7
A4.1.1 Values of the flash point corrected for barometric NOTE A4.1—Materials, purities, flash point values, and limits stated in
pressure for some reference materials and their typical limits Table A4.1 were developed in an ASTM interlaboratory program to
determine suitability of use for verification fluids in flash point test
are given in Table A4.19 (see Note A4.1). Suppliers of CRMs
methods. Other materials, purities, flash point values, and limits can be
will provide certificates stating the method-specific flash point suitable when produced according to the practices of ASTM RR:D02-
1007 or ISO Guides 34 and 35. Certificates of performance of such
9
materials should be consulted before use, as the flashpoint value will vary
Supporting data have been filed at ASTM International Headquarters and may dependent on the composition of each CRM batch.
be obtained by requesting Research Report RR:S15-1010.
A4.2 Secondary Working Standard (SWS)—SWS is a
TABLE A4.1 D93 Typical Flash Point Values and Typical Limits stable, pure (99 + mole % purity) hydrocarbon, or other petro-
for CRM leum product whose composition is known to remain appre-
NOTE 1—Supporting data for the interlaboratory study to generate the ciably stable.
flash point in Table A4.1 can be found in research report RR:S15-1010.9 A4.2.1 Establish the mean flash point and the statistical
Hydrocarbon Purity, mole % Flash Point,°C Limits, °C control limits (3σ) for the SWS using standard statistical
n–decane 99 + 52.8 ±2.3 techniques. (See ASTM MNL 7).10
n–undecane 99 + 68.7 ±3.0
n–tetradecane 99 + 109.3 ±4.8
10
n–hexadecane 99 + 133.9 ±5.9 Manual on Presentation of Data and Control Chart Analysis, ASTM MNL, 6th
ed., ASTM International, W. Conshohocken, 1990.

APPENDIXES

(Nonmandatory Information)

X1. FLASH POINT MASKING PHENOMENON

X1.1 A condition during flash point testing can occur with test flame from blue to yellow-orange laminar flame is ob-
certain mixtures whereby the nonflammable component of the served.
sample tends to inert the vapor space above the liquid, thus
preventing a flash. Under this condition, the flash point of the X1.4 Under this condition, continued heating and testing for
material is masked resulting in the reporting of incorrect high flash point at temperatures above ambient temperature, have
flash point or no flash point. resulted in significant burning of the ignitable vapor outside the
test cup, often above the test flame. This can be a potential fire
X1.2 This flash point masking phenomenon most frequently hazard if not recognized.
occurs with ignitable liquids that contain certain halogenated
hydrocarbons such as dichloromethane (methylene chloride) X1.5 It is recommended that if this condition is encountered
and trichloroethylene. during the flash point testing of these type of materials, testing
should be discontinued.
X1.3 Under this condition, no distinct flash as defined in
3.1.5 of these test methods is observed. Instead a significant X1.6 Further commentaries regarding flash point test and
enlargement of the test flame and a change in the color of the flammability of mixtures can be found in Test Method E502.

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 D93 − 13

X2. FLASH POINT TEST AND FLAMMABILITY OF MIXTURES

X2.1 While the flash point can be used to indicate the flammable vapors under certain conditions and yet will not
flammability of liquid materials for certain end uses, flash point exhibit a close-cup flash point. This phenomenon is noted
does not represent the minimum temperature at which a when a nonflammable component is sufficiently volatile and
material can evolve flammable vapors. present in sufficient quantity to inert the vapor space of the
X2.2 There are instances with pure materials where the closed cup, thus preventing a flash. In addition, there are
absence of a flash point does not ensure freedom from certain instances where an appreciable quantity of the nonflam-
flammability. Included in this category are materials that mable component will be present in the vapor, and the material
require large diameters for flash propagation, such as trichlo- will exhibit no flash point.
roethylene. This material will not propagate a flame in appa-
ratus the size of a flash point tester, however, its vapors are X2.4 Liquids containing a highly volatile nonflammable
flammable and will burn when ignited in apparatus of adequate component or impurity, which exhibit no flash point because of
size. the influence of the nonflammable material, may form flam-
mable mixtures if totally flash vaporized in air in the proper
X2.3 When a liquid contains flammable and nonflammable proportions.
components, there are cases where this liquid can evolve
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SUMMARY OF CHANGES

Subcommittee D02.08 has identified the location of selected changes to this standard since the last issue
(D93 – 12) that may impact the use of this standard. (Approved July 15, 2013.)

(1) Change of 360°C to 370°C in the Scope. (2) Addition of reference to Note 1 in Note 3.

Subcommittee D02.08 has identified the location of selected changes to this standard since the last issue
(D93 – 11) that may impact the use of this standard. (Approved Nov. 1, 2012.)

(1) New warning in 11.1.2. (2) Revised wording of the warning in 11.1.5.2.

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