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Flammable Gas

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Flammable solid

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Flammable Limits

Definition

Flammable limits apply generally to vapors and are defined as the concentration range in which a flammable substance can produce a fire or explosion when an ignition source (such as a spark or open flame) is present. The concentration is generally expressed as percent fuel by volume. Above the upper flammable limit (UFL) the mixture of substance and air is too rich in fuel (deficient in oxygen) to burn. This is sometimes called the upper explosive limit (UEL). Below the lower flammable limit (LFL) the mixture of substance and air lacks sufficient fuel (substance) to burn. This is sometimes called the lower explosive limit (LEL). Any concentration between these limits can ignite or explode -- use extreme caution! Being above the upper limit is not particularly safe, either. If a confined space is above the upper flammable limit and is then ventilated or opened to an air source, the vapor will be diluted and the concentration can drop into the flammable limit range.

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Additional Info

Using a flammable material in a confined space without proper ventilation or engineering controls is asking for trouble. It is usually quite easy to reach the lower flammable limit. There are numerous cases where individuals have used a solvent, sealer, or other flammable materials in a basement or closed room with inadequate ventilation...and have been injured when the vapors were ignited by a pilot light, electric spark or other ignition source. See, for example, Fairdale (Louisville, KY) home explosion puts firefighter in ICU (2010), a fire/explosion caused when acetone vapors ignited in a basement.

In laboratories, special precautions against accidental spark sources need to be taken whenever a chemical is used in closed space such as a fume hood or laboratory refrigerator. Special explosion-proof or explosion-resistant equipment (refrigerators, hot plates, stir plates etc.) should be used in these situations. The better solutions have the controls and thermostats located outside of the work or storage zone with as few electrical connections as possible on the inside. The best solutions are called intrinsically safe in that they have no inherent spark source. For example, stir plates can be driven by compressed air instead of an electric motor.

A spectacular example of the consequences of introducing a spark to a flammable limit atmosphere occurred in Newcastle in September of 2003. A pipe fitter left an acetylene cylinder inside his vehicle over the weekend. Either the cylinder had a small leak or the valve was not fully closed. The flammable limits for acetylene are extremely broad, 2.5% to 100% in air.

When the worker opened the door, an undetermined spark source (the door light switch, light bulb, cellular phone, static etc.) ignited the mixture with catastrophic results:

In the close-up view notice how the roof/door pillars are bent completely sideways. It is amazing that the worker's injuries were confined to his face and ear drums.

MSDS Relevance

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When working with a flammable substance in a poorly ventilated and/or confined space, it is easy to reach the flammable limit range. Utilizing personal protective equipment such as gloves or a respirator provides no protection against explosion or fire! Always work with volatile substances in well-ventilated areas or use appropriate engineering controls. Even then, you may need to measure or calculate the concentration of the vapor to ensure that it does not reach the flammable limit range. Flowing liquids can generate static electricity. When transferring liquids from one container to another, be sure to follow proper bonding and grounding procedures.

Further Reading

• Flammable limits of common laboratory chemicals (PDF, 10K) at Ohio State U lists 16 chemicals.
• Gases - Explosive and Flammability Concentration Limits at The Engineering Toolbox.
• The ASTM standard "E681-09 Standard Test Method for Concentration Limits of Flammability of Chemicals (Vapors and Gases)" is available for purchase through their web site.
• This OSHA Training And Education document covers Flammable and Combustible liquids (29 CFR 1910.106).
• Flammability limit testing is offered by several companies including Chilworth Technology and Fike Corporation.

See also: combustible, flammable, flash point, vapor pressure, VOC.

Additional definitions from Google and OneLook.

Disclaimer: The information contained herein is believed to be true and accurate, however ILPI makes no guarantees concerning the veracity of any statement. Use of any information on this page is at the reader's own risk. ILPI strongly encourages the reader to consult the appropriate local, state and federal agencies concerning the matters discussed herein.