Flash Point Detection of Liquids and Solids with the MiniFlash FP Vision

MINIFLASH FP Vision is a flash point tester exclusively developed for determining the flash points of liquids and solids. The analyzer employs Grabner flash point detection method, which involves triggering by an energy-controlled electric arc and measuring the instantaneous increase in pressure within a closed chamber. Since the test chamber is heated from the top, the analyzer eliminates condensation of highly volatile compounds and ensures enhanced test results.

MINIFLASH FP Vision has a continuously closed cup design and requires a small sample volume of only 1–2 mL, thereby ensuring utmost safety. During a flash point test, there is no discharge of offensive fumes in the testing area and wastage of sample is very little or absent. Valuable labor time is saved by the rapid thermoelectric cooling following each flash point test and since the instrument is simple to handle.

MINIFLASH FP Vision is part of the Vision analyzer series. Vision analyzers offer remote access to test results through the COCKPIT Software and are fitted with a full-color touchscreen. MINIFLASH FP Vision’s touchscreen incorporates an easy-to-use graphical interface, thus avoiding the need for training. Technicians of any skill level can perform a flash point test using the MINIFLASH FP Vision. Similar to other analyzers in the Vision product series, MINIFLASH FP Vision not only ensures hassle-free communication with Ethernet, USB, PCs, and LIMS but also offers unlimited storage capacity to store the test results.

Grabner Instruments has developed two versions of MINIFLASH FP Vision: MINIFLASH FP Vision for temperatures ranging from 0 °C to 120 °C and MINIFLASH FPH Vision for higher temperatures of up to 400 °C.

The flash point testers determine the flash point in compliance with ASTM D6450, as well as the advanced ASTM D7094 standard. This procedure specifies the “Standard Test Method for Flash Point by Modified Continuously Closed Cup (MCCCFP),” which ensures optimal reproducibility and repeatability, as well as an excellent correlation to the D93 Pensky-Martens method.

According to the ASTM committee’s official statement, “there is no statistically significant bias observed between ASTM D7094 and ASTM D93 Procedure A.” Moreover, the ASTM committee has approved the ASTM D7094 standard for the Diesel Fuel and Kerosene specifications ASTM D975, D396, D2880, and D3699.

Test results produced by these ASTM methods are identical to other established standards like TAG and Abel. Moreover, the exclusive design of Grabner flash point analyzers enables the MINIFLASH FP Vision to be used for challenging applications such as flash point testing of biodiesel and contaminated samples. Gasoline in diesel fuel and diesel fuel in lube oil are some examples of contaminated samples that can be tested using this analyzer. The MINIFLASH FP Vision analyzer incorporates advanced methods for the simulation of EN ISO 3679 and EN ISO 3680 as well.

The MINIFLASH FP Vision’s robust housing and genuine portability make it the ideal solution for military applications and mobile laboratories.

The New Technology

Advanced Peltier Cooling Technology

Grabner Instruments has designed rapid thermoelectric control of heating and cooling, thereby ensuring quick sample turnaround and extended service life of the instrument. This technology not just allows the measuring temperature to be extended beyond 400 °C but also optimizes Peltier performance and service life of the instrument.

Ignition Protection Technology

The MINIFLASH design incorporates Ignition Protection Technology, which requires only 1–2 mL of samples for the tests. Moreover, while performing the flash point test, there is no open flame. The automatic explosion probing, continuously closed cup design, and controlled air feed prevent offensive fumes and fire, thereby ensuring unrivaled safety performance during flash point testing.

Combustion Analysis

At times, samples include flammable compounds in small concentrations, which do not display a definite flash point. MINIFLASH FP Vision has the potential to detect even a very small flame and graphically displays the existence of contaminations in such samples.

Flexibility

Thanks to the potential to control parameters such as ignition energy, heat rate, and the amount of atmospheric oxygen present in the combustion chamber, users can now simulate almost any flash point method and environmental condition.

Wide Range of Applications

Grabner flash point testers can be used to determine flash points over an extensive range of temperatures by simulating all established closed cup methods and GO/NOGO tests using only 1–2 mL of the samples. The programmable fuel dilution curve (natural gas or diesel fuel in lubricating oil) is a robust tool for the analysis of used oil to prevent expensive engine troubles. In the recent past, the excellent performance of MINIFLASH has been shown to be effective for product specifications, transport regulations/classifications, and used oil analysis across the globe.

Other Applications for MINIFLASH

Petrochemistry

Flash point testing of residuals

Rapid screening of diesel fuel and jet fuel to test for the occurrence of contaminants with flash contaminants

Benefit: extremely safe operating procedure and wide temperature range

Pharmacy

Flash point testing of products that include solvents such as glycerol, IPA, ethanol, etc.

Benefit: small sample volume

Transport

Flash point testing of flammable goods to scrutinize for compliance with transport safety regulations

Benefit: easy handling

Flavors and Fragrances

Flash point testing of aroma products that contain alcohol-based solvents

Benefit: small sample volume considerably minimizes the costs associated with high-priced base products

Paints and Varnishes

Flash point testing of varnishes, solvent-based paints, and enamels to ascertain the safest storage method

Benefit: easy to clean and small sample volume

Waste Disposal

Testing of industrial waste and unknown blends of liquid hydrocarbons

Benefit: small sample volume and rapid thermoelectric cooling for samples with a flash point well below ambient temperature

Maintenance of Engines and Pumps

In lube oils, fuel dilution alters oil viscosity and hence the lubricating properties. This leads to increased friction and wear of mechanical parts that could ultimately result in severe damage and engine disruption. Fuel dilution leads to a decrease in the flash point.

Benefit: preventive maintenance

Flash Point Detection of Liquids and Solids with the MiniFlash FP Vision

Advanced Peltier Cooling TechnologyIgnition Protection TechnologyCombustion AnalysisMINIFLASH FP Vision - Image 1MINIFLASH FP Vision - Image 2