What is "Flash Point" and why and when is it important?

 

The flash point is the temperature at which the vapors of a substance ignite when exposed to an ignition source. This is a key measure of fire safety for lubricants, as a higher flash point means the oil is less likely to ignite, making it safer in high-temperature applications.

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Beyond safety, the flash point can also reveal important insights into an oil’s composition and volatility. Oils with lower flash points may contain lighter, more volatile compounds that can evaporate or break down more quickly under heat. Conversely, a high flash point often indicates that the oil is made up of heavier, more stable molecules, which can be beneficial in applications requiring low evaporation and high thermal stability.