1,500 rpm. Read the combined volume
contains a cup with a lid, a stirring device, a
of water and sediment at the bottom of each tube.
thermometer, and a heat source.
Readings from the tubes are a direct percentage
The flash point of a petroleum product is the
of water and sediment. Determine the BS&W
lowest temperature at which it gives off sufficient
of the fuel, add the readings from the two centrifuge
vapors to form a combustible mixture that can
tubes, and divide by two.
be ignited momentarily. Knowledge of the flash
point aids you in determining precautionary
should repeat this operation until the volume of
measures to take against fire and explosion
water and sediment in each tube remains
constant for two consecutive readings. In general,
hazards. A flash point substantially lower than
you will not have to perform more than four
expected is a reliable indication of contamination
whirlings.
with a highly volatile product (such as aviation
gasoline). Contamination of a product can lower
PENSKY-MARTENS CLOSED-CUP
its flash point beyond safe handling and storage
FLASH POINT TESTER
procedures for that product. This test will also
indicate dilution of the product by substances that
The Pensky-Martens closed-cup flash point
will cause the flash point to be excessively high.
tester determines the flash point of fuel received
The minimum flash point for all fuel on Navy
on board ship. Figure 3-31 shows the tester, which
ships is 140F.
Figure 3-31.--Pensky-Martens closed-cup flash point tester.
3-23
