4.1 This test method is useful in determining that an asphalt cutback has been prepared with solvents that meet the desired range of flammability, and that the product has not been contaminated with lower flash point solvents.

Note 3: The quality of results produced by this standard is dependent on the competence of the personnel performing the procedure and the capability, calibration, and maintenance of the equipment used. Agencies that meet the criteria of Specification D3666 are generally considered capable of competent and objective testing, sampling, inspection, etc. Users of this standard are cautioned that compliance with Specification D3666 alone does not completely ensure reliable results. Reliable results depend on many factors; following the suggestions of Specification D3666 or some similar acceptable guidance provides a means of evaluating and controlling some of those factors.

1.1 This test method covers the determination of flash points by the Tag open-cup apparatus of cutback asphalts having flash points of less than 93 °C [200 °F].

Note 1: Specifications commonly designate the Cleveland open cup (Test Method D92, IP 36) method for asphalt cements and cutback asphalts having flash points above 79 °C [175 °F].

Note 2: This procedure follows in general the procedure outlined in Test Method D1310, but is restricted to cutback asphalt having flash points of less than 93 °C [200 °F].

1.2 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard.

1.3 The text of this standard references notes and footnotes which provide explanatory material. These notes and footnotes (excluding those in tables and figures) shall not be considered as requirements of the standard.

1.4 Warning—Mercury has been designated by the United States Environmental Protection Agency and many state agencies as a hazardous material that can cause central nervous system, kidney, and liver damage. Mercury, or its vapor, may be hazardous to health and corrosive to materials. Caution should be taken when handling mercury and mercury-containing products. See the applicable Safety Data Sheet (SDS) or Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for details and the EPA’s website (http://www.epa.gov/mercury/index.htm) for additional information. Users should be aware that selling mercury and/or mercury-containing products in your state may be prohibited by state law.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.6 This standard should be used to measure and describe the properties of materials, products, or assemblies in response to heat and flame under controlled laboratory conditions and should not be used to describe or appraise the fire hazard or fire risk of materials, products, or assemblies under actual fire conditions. However, results of this test may be used as elements of a fire risk assessment which takes into account all of the factors which are pertinent to an assessment of the fire hazard of a particular end use.

1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.