10. Calibration and Standardization
10.1 Adjust the automated flash point detection system, when used, according to the manufacturer's instructions.
10.2 Calibrate the temperature measuring device according to the manufacturer's instructions.
10.3 Verify the performance of the manual apparatus or the automated apparatus at least once per year by determining the flash point of a certified reference material (CRM), such as those listed in Annex A2, which is reasonably close to the expected temperature range of the samples to be tested. The material shall be tested according to the procedure of this test method and the observed flash point obtained in 11.1.10 or 11.2.5 shall be corrected for barometric pressure (see Section 12). The flash point obtained shall be within the limits stated in Table A2.1 for the identified CRM or within the limits calculated for an unlisted CRM (see Annex A2).
10.4 Once the performance of the apparatus has been verified, the flash point of secondary working standards (SWSs) can be determined along with their control limits. These secondary materials can then be utilized for more frequent performance checks (see Annex A2).
NOTE 10 - The verification fluid is a material with a predetermined, interlaboratory tested, flash point temperature that is used to verify proper operation of the apparatus. Calibration is undertaken by the operator according to the apparatus manufacturers' instructions should the result of the verification be outside the stated reproducibility.
10.5 When the flash point obtained is not within the limits stated in 10.3 or 10.4, check the condition and operation of the apparatus to ensure conformity with the details listed in Annex A1, especially in regard to the position of the temperature measuring device, the application of the test flame, and the heating rate. After adjustment of the apparatus, repeat the test with a fresh test specimen (see 10.3) wit special attention to the procedural details prescribed in Section 11.
