Why Is Flash Point Testing Required To Classify Flammability Levels?
Once the flash point is analyzed, the chemical is grouped into different flammability categories which have different handling requirements.
Flash Point Testing for chemicals, fuels, oils and industrial liquids
We offer a full range of ASTM and ISO flash point testing methods to match your material type, sample size, and regulatory requirements.
Dynalene Labs provides flash point testing that is compliant with DOT shipping classifications, SDS development, product safety evaluations, NFPA and UN internal compliance requirements. Our ISO 9001-certified independent laboratory performs closed-cup and open-cup flash point testing in accordance with ASTM and ISO standards commonly required by regulators, inspectors, and transportation authorities.
We deliver fast turnaround times, competitive pricing, and reliable results to support shipping, regulatory submissions, and internal compliance programs.
Flash point testing methods (ASTM and ISO)
ASTM D3828 / D3278 – Small Scale Closed Cup (Preferred)
Our primary method of choice for flash point testing, especially when sample volume is limited. These small-scale closed cup flashpoint methods require less material, making testing more cost-effective while still producing accurate, regulator-accepted results for DOT, NFPA and SDS compliance. Many clients choose this method to save on material costs and reduce testing expenses without sacrificing compliance or reliability.
ASTM D56 – Tag Closed Cup
Designed for higher flash point liquids, this method is used when open-cup testing is specified for compliance or documentation purposes.
ASTM D92 – Open Cup
Used for higher flash point liquids where open-cup methods are requested for compliance or documentation purposes. Typically applied when standards specify open-cup testing.
Additional Flash Point and Fire Point Methods
Dynalene Labs supports specialized testing requirements with additional recognized methods:
- ISO 3679 / ISO 3680 – Closed Cup
International small-scale closed-cup methods, suitable for limited sample sizes and compliance with transportation and safety regulations. - EPA 1020 A & B
Methods used to determine the ignitability characteristic under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) of waste samples. - ASTM D1310 – Open cup method for fire point / open cup flash point
Determines the fire point of liquids using an open cup, ideal for higher flash point materials like oils and lubricants. - ASTM D7236 – Flash point by small scale closed cup equilibrium method
Another small-scale closed cup test that requires minimal sample volume, providing fast and accurate flash point results for costly or limited materials. - ASTM D1655 – Aviation fuels testing
Standard method for flash point of aviation fuels, ensuring safe storage, handling, and transport while meeting regulatory and NFPA compliance requirements.
Advanced Flash Point Testing Equipment and Capabilities
Dynalene Labs utilizes advanced instrumentation to ensure consistent, accurate results across a wide range of materials:
- Setaflash Series 8 closed cup tester for rapid, small-volume testing
- Tanaka ASC-8C for sub-ambient (low-temperature) flash point determination
- TAG and Cleveland Open Cup instruments for open-cup and fire point testing
Our equipment and processes support precise flammability assessment for chemicals, oils, and industrial liquids.
Chemicals and Materials We Test:
- Chemicals & solvents
- Waste & environmental streams
- Fragrances & cosmetics
- Oils, greases, lubricants
- Inks
- Paint, varnish, & waxes
- Cleaners
- Pharmaceuticals
- Consumer & household chemicals
Our testing supports compliance with DOT, NFPA, RCRA, and EPA standards across multiple industries.
Understanding Flammability and Flash Point Testing
What is Flammability
Flammability is the ability of a substance to ignite easily and burn rapidly, serving as a measure of fire hazard. It reflects both the ease of ignition and the intensity of combustion, and is influenced by properties such as volatility, vapor pressure, flash point, and flammable limits. Flammability characteristics are evaluated through tests such as flash point determination and sustained combustion testing.
Why Flash Point Testing Matters
Flash Point is the lowest temperature at which the vapor of a volatile material will ignite when an ignition source is applied. It is a critical measurement used to classify materials as flammable or combustible.
- DOT and NFPA compliance for shipping and storage
- Assessing flammability hazards in formulations or finished products
- SDS preparation and updates
- Supporting internal safety and regulatory audits
- Classification of flammable vs. combustible liquids
Flash point testing is often a required parameter for transportation, storage, handling and regulatory classification of liquid materials.
Why Clients Request Flash Point Testing
- Regulatory compliance for shipping and storage of flammable materials.
- Verification testing when internal labs cannot perform ASTM D56, D3828, or D3278
- Independent testing requested by regulators, inspectors, or auditors
- Confirmation testing for SDS updates or formulation changes for chemical safety
Related Testing
Some materials require additional evaluation beyond flash point testing to fully assess their flammability hazards.
Sustained Burning
Dynalene Labs offers sustained burning testing in accordance with ASTM D4206, 49 CFR 173 Appendix H, and UN L.2. This test is commonly performed at 49°C, with additional temperatures such as 60.5°C and 75°C used to meet specific regulatory requirements including 49 CFR Appendix H, ISO 9038, and UN L.2 methodologies.
Aerosol Flammability
We also perform aerosol flammability testing for self-pressurized aerosols, using methods such as 16 CFR § 1500.45 and ASTM D3065. This testing helps classify aerosols for shipping, storage, and regulatory compliance, and is often combined with flash point or sustained burning testing to ensure a comprehensive flammability evaluation.
Whether your internal lab lacks the capability, or you need third-party verification, Dynalene Labs serves as a reliable, independent laboratory for compliance testing.
| Criteria | GHS Category | Transport Class/ Packing Group |
|---|---|---|
| Flash Point < 73°F (23°C) & Initial boiling point ≤ 95°F (35°C) | 1 | 3, I |
| Flash Point < 73°F (23°C) & Initial boiling point > 95°F (35°C) | 2 | 3, II |
| Flash Point ≥ 73°F (23°C) & ≤ 140°F (60°C) | 3 | 3, III |
| Flash Point > 140°F (60°C) & ≥ 200°F (93.3°C) | 4 | Combustible liquid, III |
ADDRESS
Dynalene Labs
5250 West Coplay Road
Whitehall, PA 18052
1.877.244-5525 | 610.262.9686
lab@dynalene.com