Automatic Open Cup Flash Point Tester

Automatic Open Cup Flash Point Tester

Introduction
Shijiazhuang Faith Machinery Co.,Ltd is proud to introduce its latest Automatic Open Cup Flash Point Tester, engineered for laboratories and production facilities that require rigorous, repeatable flash point measurements for petroleum products, solvents, and chemical intermediates. Flash point data is critical for safety classification, transport regulation compliance, and formulation development.

Regulatory Background
Flash point establishes the lowest temperature at which vapor above a liquid ignites in the presence of an ignition source. Numerous regulations—including ASTM D92 (Pensky–Martens open cup method) and ISO 2592—govern how these tests are conducted. Accurate flash point data underpins hazard communication, labeling per the Globally Harmonized System (GHS), and compliance with transportation regulations such as ADR and DOT.

Instrument Highlights

• Fully Automated Operation
  Once the user selects the test method and parameters via the intuitive control panel, the instrument handles all heating, stirring, ignition, and data capture steps without additional intervention.

• Modular Ignition System
  The tester employs a reliable electric ignition mechanism designed to provide consistent spark energy and timing. Automatic spark verification ensures each test meets repeatability standards.

• Integrated Stirring Assembly
  A magnetic stirrer ensures uniform temperature distribution within the sample cup. Stir rate and pattern can be programmed to emulate standardized protocols or customized for special product formulations.

• High‑Resolution Temperature Sensing
  Platinum resistance thermometers (PRTs) measure sample temperature and ambient conditions with a resolution of 0.1 °C. This precision is critical when determining flash points near regulatory cutoffs (e.g., 40 °C for many flammable liquids).

• Safety and Containment
  The open cup chamber is enclosed within a ventilated hood that captures vapors. An emergency‑stop interlock disables ignition in the event of an abnormal temperature rise or airflow disruption.

Standardized Test Procedure

1. Sample Loading
   Fill the cup to the specified mark—commonly 74 mL for ASTM D92.

2. Method Selection
   Choose the standard (ASTM D92, ISO 2592, etc.) and desired heating rate via the touchscreen interface.

3. Automated Test Sequence
   The instrument raises the sample temperature at a controlled rate (e.g., 5 °C/min). At set temperature intervals, the igniter introduces a spark above the liquid surface.

4. Flash Point Detection
   Once ignition occurs, the tester records the sample temperature and automatically ends the sequence, displaying the flash point result.

5. Data Management
   Results are logged with timestamps, method ID, and operator credentials. Export options include USB, Ethernet, and LIMS integration.

Applications

• Petroleum Distillates and Heavy Oils
  Refineries and fuel distributors verify flash points to ensure product safety and conformance with fuel specifications.

• Solvent Blends
  Chemical manufacturers and formulators assess solvent volatility for process safety and regulatory classification.

• Lubricant Base Stocks
  While less flammable than lighter products, accurate flash point measurement aids in base oil classification and additive package evaluation.

Maintenance and Calibration
Routine maintenance involves cleaning the cup, verifying ignition alignment, and checking airflow. Shijiazhuang Faith Machinery Co.,Ltd supplies certified calibration kits—including reference thermometers and ignition verification tools—to comply with ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation.

User Feedback and Service
Laboratories have noted significant time savings thanks to the instrument’s unattended operation and rapid test cycles. Built‑in diagnostic software alerts users to potential issues before they affect results. A global service network provides on‑site support, spare parts, and method updates to accommodate evolving regulatory requirements.

Future Development
Shijiazhuang Faith Machinery Co.,Ltd continues to invest in research and development. Planned enhancements include remote monitoring via web interface, automated cup washing, and expanded support for alternative flash point methods. These innovations aim to keep testing labs ahead of the curve in safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance.

For additional information, detailed specifications, or inquiries about factory acceptance testing, please contact Shijiazhuang Faith Machinery Co.,Ltd’s sales and technical support team. We remain dedicated to delivering precision testing solutions for the evolving needs of the petroleum, chemical, and lubricant industries.