Overview
EN ISO 13736:2021 - Determination of flash point (Abel closed-cup method) specifies the Abel closed‑cup procedure for measuring the flash point of combustible liquids. The method covers both manual and automated closed‑cup testing and applies to liquids with flash points between −30.0 °C and 75.0 °C, with the published precision being valid for the range −8.5 °C to 75.0 °C. The document is published by CEN as an adoption of ISO 13736:2021 and supersedes the 2013 edition.
Key topics and requirements
- Test method: Abel closed‑cup technique for flash‑point determination (manual and automated).
- Scope limits: Applicable temperature range −30.0 °C to 75.0 °C; precision statements valid from −8.5 °C to 75.0 °C.
- Apparatus & verification: Requirements for the Abel test cup, thermometers (manual thermometer limits upper test temperature to 70.0 °C), temperature measuring devices and apparatus verification are addressed in normative annexes.
- Sampling & handling: Guidance on sampling, subsampling, mixing and handling of samples prior to testing.
- Precision and performance: Repeatability and reproducibility definitions and limits are given (see Clauses 13.1–13.3); precision statements updated in line with ISO 4259-1.
- Limitations & cautions: Not applicable to water‑borne paints (see ISO 3679). Liquids containing halogenated compounds may produce anomalous results. Safety warnings for hazardous materials and operations are included.
- Supporting annexes: Normative annexes cover apparatus design (Annex A), thermometer positioning (Annex B), temperature device specs (Annex C), apparatus verification (Annex D); an informative Annex E lists flash point values of chemicals.
Practical applications and users
- Applications:
- Classification of liquids for transport, storage and safety regulations.
- Quality control in petroleum products, solvents and related industries.
- Screening for volatile components in unknown or blended liquids prior to further analysis.
- Compliance testing for flammability/combustibility limits used in regulatory frameworks.
- Who uses it:
- Test laboratories (industrial and commercial QC labs).
- Petroleum and chemical producers and formulators.
- Regulatory bodies and inspectors responsible for transport and storage safety.
- Manufacturers of flash‑point testing equipment and instrument calibration services.
Related standards
- ISO 3679 - method for water‑borne paints (alternative where EN ISO 13736 is not applicable).
- ISO 4259‑1 - referenced for precision and acceptance criteria.
- ISO/TR 29662 - guidance on carrying out flash‑point tests and interpretation.
Use keywords: EN ISO 13736:2021, Abel closed-cup, flash point test, combustible liquids, manual and automated flash point, flash point precision, petroleum products.
