5.1 This test method ensures that before the flash test is run the air/vapor space above the specimen has attained a saturation concentration of vapor by using standard closed cups under equilibrium conditions. The saturation concentration of the vapors will be attained at some temperature between that of the liquid and the cooler apparatus lid. However, this temperature will be close to the temperature of the specimen after it has been maintained at the specified temperature for at least a 10-min period. This test method does not provide for the determination of the actual flash point but only whether a specimen does or does not flash at a specified temperature.

1.1 This test method covers the determination of whether a liquid complies with the closed-cup flash point requirements in government regulations, or in specifications, or as agreed between the purchaser and the seller.

1.2 This test method is limited to a temperature range between 0 and 110°C (32 and 230°F).

1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.

1.4 Warning—Mercury has been designated by many regulatory 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 product Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for details and EPA’s website, http://www.epa.gov/mercury/faq.htm, for additional information. Users should be aware that selling mercury and/or mercury containing products into your state or country may be prohibited by law.

1.5 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.

1.6 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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.