Choosing a CRM starts with your Flash Point test method
Routine verification helps laboratories maintain confidence that flash point equipment continues to perform as expected between calibration and service intervals.
But not all flash point tests are the same and neither are the Certified Reference Materials (CRMs) used to support them.
Different flash point methods use different apparatus, test conditions and procedures. Selecting an appropriate CRM therefore starts with understanding the test method your laboratory performs.
With an expanded range of ISO 17034 accredited Certified Reference Materials available for flash point testing, Stanhope-Seta can support laboratories performing MCCCFP, Abel, Tag, Pensky-Martens, Cleveland and Small Scale methods.
Why use a Certified Reference Material for Flash Point verification?
Flash point results can influence product classification, quality control, transportation and safety decisions. Maintaining confidence in the performance of flash point equipment is therefore an important part of laboratory quality assurance.
Routine testing with an appropriate CRM can help laboratories:
- Monitor instrument performance over time
- Identify unexpected changes or performance drift
- Support measurement traceability
- Investigate questionable results
- Support ISO/IEC 17025 quality processes
- Provide documented evidence of equipment performance
- Support analyst training and competency checks
Verification does not replace calibration where calibration is required. Instead, routine verification can provide an additional level of confidence that the test system continues to perform as expected between calibration activities.
Which Flash Point CRM do I need?
The starting point should be the test method used by your laboratory.
ASTM D7094 – MCCCFP Flash Point
For laboratories performing ASTM D7094 Modified Continuously Closed Cup Flash Point testing, Stanhope-Seta offers two ISO 17034 Certified Reference Materials:
The availability of two nominal flash point values gives laboratories greater flexibility when selecting a CRM appropriate to their routine testing requirements.
IP 170; ISO 13736; BS 2000-170 – Abel Flash Point
For laboratories performing Abel closed cup flash point testing, the SETA-CRM Abel Flash Point 40 °C supports:
- IP 170
- BS EN ISO 13736
- BS 2000-170
It provides laboratories performing Abel flash point testing with an ISO 17034 accredited CRM for routine verification and quality control.
ASTM D56 – Tag Closed Cup Flash Point
Laboratories performing ASTM D56 Tag Closed Cup flash point testing can use:
The CRM provides a certified value for laboratories looking to incorporate routine verification into their ASTM D56 testing procedures.
ASTM D93 – Pensky-Martens Flash Point
For laboratories performing Pensky-Martens closed cup flash point testing, Stanhope-Seta offers a range of Certified Reference Materials covering different nominal flash point values.
These can support laboratories carrying out routine verification of Pensky-Martens flash point equipment and provide a traceable reference as part of ongoing quality control procedures.
ASTM D92 – Cleveland Flash Point
For laboratories performing ASTM D92 Cleveland Open Cup flash and fire point testing, Stanhope-Seta offers a range of ISO 17034 accredited Certified Reference Materials.
The Cleveland CRM provides certified values for flash and fire point testing in accordance with ASTM D92, supporting routine instrument verification and laboratory quality control.
ASTM D3278; ASTM D3828; IP 523; ISO 3679 – Small Scale Flash Point
Stanhope-Seta also provides Certified Reference Materials developed for Small Scale flash point testing.
These materials can be used for routine performance verification, post-maintenance checks, audit preparation, analyst competency checks and method validation activities.
Can Stanhope-Seta CRMs be used with other manufacturers’ instruments?
Selecting a CRM should be based on its intended use and the applicable test method, rather than simply the manufacturer of the instrument.
Where a Stanhope-Seta Certified Reference Material is suitable for the specified test method and measurement requirements, it may therefore be suitable for use with compatible flash point equipment from other manufacturers.
Laboratories should always review the CRM certificate, applicable test method and their own quality procedures when determining suitability.
Why choose an ISO 17034 Certified Reference Material?
ISO 17034 specifies competence requirements for Reference Material Producers.
Using a CRM from an ISO 17034 accredited producer provides laboratories with confidence that the material has been produced under independently assessed processes for the activities covered by the producer’s accreditation.
Stanhope-Seta is a UKAS accredited ISO 17034 Reference Material Producer, providing Certified Reference Materials for a growing range of petroleum and laboratory test methods.
Supporting confidence throughout the instrument lifecycle
As both a manufacturer of flash point instruments and a producer of ISO 17034 accredited Certified Reference Materials, Stanhope-Seta understands the importance of maintaining confidence in test results throughout the operational life of laboratory equipment.
From initial installation and calibration through to routine verification, quality control and troubleshooting, appropriate reference materials can form an important part of a laboratory’s ongoing equipment management programme.
Whether you use a Stanhope-Seta flash point tester or compatible equipment from another manufacturer, our team can help you identify the appropriate Certified Reference Material for your test method.
Explore our Flash Point Certified Reference Material range >
