Flashpoint Testing Apparatus
code: LVSAV1990.024
Description
Apparatus for testing the flashpoint of oils, by Standard Engineering Co. Ltd, England, c. 1950.
Used in the laboratories of Pumpherston Refinery to measure the flashpoint of an oil sample. The oil sample is gradually heated and mixed. The temperature at which a trial flame ignites the sample determines the flashpoint. This was part of the quality control of the products of the oil refining processes. Small samples of the various products were submitted to the laboratories within the works, and the various tests carried out to ensure a consistent and high quality. The flashpoint of a lamp oil was an important safety consideration. If the flashpoint of an oil was too low there was a greater tendency to ignite or explode when stored or spilt. During the 19th century imported American oils were cheaper but less thoroughly refined with a lower flashpoint than Scottish oils. Scottish companies campaigned to ban American imports on grounds of safety.