Flash Point: Paint

Why measure the flash point of paint?

  • To classify material to ensure it is handled, stored, transported and disposed of correctly
  • By law, all paint manufacturers must provide a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) which includes flash point
  • This is communicated through the Classification, Labelling and Packaging Regulation (CLP) in Europe and the United Nations Globally Harmonised System (GHS) worldwide
  • A series of pictograms are used to identify a product by type and packing group

Flash point flammable categories

  • Applicable to all modes of transport and governed by relevant legislative bodies, whether by air (IATA), rail (COTIF), road (ADR) or maritime (IMDG)
  • The lower the flash point, the greater the risk

What are the implications of CLP non-compliance?

Flash Point of Paint

  • It is a criminal offence to fail to comply with CLP regulations which can result in fines and/or imprisonment
  • The maximum civil penalty for violation of hazardous materials transportation law can reach tens of thousands of dollars
  • For a violation that results in death, serious illness, severe injury or substantial property damage, the civil penalty can reach hundreds of thousands of dollars
Test methods

  • Commonly specified flash point tests include ISO 3679, ISO 3680, ISO 1523, ASTM D3728, ASTM D3941
  • ISO 3679 (ASTM D3278 equivalent) Setaflash Small Scale is the universal test method that covers almost all types of paints, solvents and thinners, including the more environmentally friendly water borne paints and thinners
  • ISO 3679 specifies procedures for flash point tests, within the temperature range of -30 °C to 300 °C, for paints, including water-borne paints, varnishes, binders for paints and varnishes, adhesives, solvents, petroleum, and related products

How does Setaflash help?

    Series 3 Activecool Electric

  • A rapid equilibrium flash no-flash test is very reliable and precise for water borne paints
  • Setaflash requires just 2 ml of sample and a test takes under 2 minutes, reducing waste
  • Tests can be carried out onsite rather than sending samples to a test house, saving time and money

See our range of Setaflash flash point testers

Download the Flash Point: Paint PDF