9. Preparation of Apparatus
9.1 Support the manual or automated apparatus on a level steady surface, such as a table.
9.2 Tests are to be performed in a draft-free room or compartment. Tests made in a laboratory hood or in any location where drafts occur are not reliable.
NOTE 7 - A shield, of the approximate dimensions 460 mm (18 in.) square and 610 mm (24 in.) high, or other suitable dimensions, and having an open front is recommended to prevent drafts from disturbing the vapors above the test cup.
NOTE 8 - With some samples whose vapors or products of pyrolysis are objectionable, it is permissible to place the apparatus along with a draft shield in a ventilation hood, the draft of which is adjustable so that vapors can be withdrawn without causing air currents over the test cup during the ignition source application period.
9.3 Prepare the manual apparatus or the automated apparatus for operation in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions for calibrating, checking, and operating the equipment. (Warning - Gas pressure should not be allowed to exceed 3 kPa (12 in.) of water pressure.)
9.4 Thoroughly clean and dry all parts of the test cup and its accessories before starting the test, to ensure the removal of any solvent which had been used to clean the apparatus. Use suitable solvent capable of removing all of the specimen from the test cup and drying the test cup and cover. Some commonly used solvents are toluene and acetone. (Warning - Toluene, acetone, and many solvents are flammable. Health hazard. Dispose of solvents and waste material in accordance with local regulations.)
10. Verification of Apparatus
10.1 Adjust the automated flash point detection system (when used) in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
10.2 Verify that the temperature measuring device is in accordance with 6.3.
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 A4, which is reasonably close to the expected temperature range of the samples to be tested. The material shall be tested according to Procedure A of these test methods and the observed flash point obtained in 11.1.8 or 11.2.2 shall be corrected for barometric pressure (see Section 13). The flash point obtained shall be within the limits stated in Table A4.1 for the identified CRM or within the limits calculated for an unlisted CRM (see Annex A4).
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 A4).
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 with regard to tightness of the lid (A1.1.2.2), the action of the shutter, the position of the ignition source (A1.1.2.3), and the angle and position of the temperature measuring device (A1.1.2.4). After any adjustment, repeat the test in 10.3 using a fresh test specimen, with special attention to the procedural details prescribed in these test methods.
