iqrarEXPERIMENT NO 6
iqrarEXPERIMENT NO 6
Determine the flash point and fire point of a given liquid petrol
Introduction :
The flash point and fire point are critical safety parameters used to evaluate the flammability of petrol
and other liquid fuels. These parameters are essential for ensuring safe storage, handling, and
transportation of flammable liquids.
Flash Point: The flash point is the lowest temperature at which the vapors of a liquid fuel
momentarily ignite in the presence of an ignition source. At this temperature, the vapor
concentration in the air is sufficient to form a flammable mixture, but combustion is not
sustained.
Fire Point: The fire point is the temperature at which the liquid produces enough vapor to
sustain continuous combustion once ignited. The fire point is usually slightly higher than the
flash point.
Materials Used :
• Petrol Sample
• Flash Point Tester
• Thermometer
• Ignition Source
• Safety Equipment
• Data Recording Tools
Procedure :
Prepare the Apparatus:
Pour the petrol sample into the cup until it reaches the specified level, typically marked on the
apparatus.
Position the thermometer in the cup so that its bulb is immersed in the liquid but does not touch the
Heat the sample uniformly using a heating source. The rate of temperature increase should follow
Periodically pass the ignition source (e.g., a small gas flame or spark) over the surface of the liquid.
Observe for a momentary flash of flame over the surface. Record the temperature at which the flash
Continue heating the sample and periodically apply the ignition source.
Observe the point at which the liquid sustains combustion for at least 5 seconds. Record this
Safely dispose of the sample and clean all equipment according to safety protocols.
Calculation :
Error :
Improper Heating Rate: Heating the sample too quickly can lead to inaccurate readings of both flash
and fire points. The standard heating rate should be maintained.
Contaminated Sample: Impurities or residues in the petrol sample can alter its flammability
characteristics.
Incorrect Thermometer Placement: If the thermometer is not positioned correctly, the recorded
temperature may not reflect the actual conditions of the test.
Drafts or Air Currents: Air movement around the test setup can disperse vapors, affecting the
ignition and combustion process.
Conclusion :
The flash point and fire point are critical safety parameters for petrol, indicating its flammability and
combustion behavior. By using standardized methods like the Cleveland Open Cup or Pensky-Martens
Closed Cup, these points can be determined accurately. Proper procedure, safety precautions, and error
mitigation are essential for reliable results. These values help ensure the safe handling, storage, and
transportation of petrol, minimizing fire hazards in practical applications.
Log sheet :
S. no sample Flash point Flash fire Difference Date
1 Petrol 80 oC 95 oC 15 oC 29/11/2024