MultiFlash - Modular Automatic Multi-Method Flash Point Testers

Pensky-Martens, Abel, Small Scale, Tag

Multiflash Flash Point Testers

• Highly automated low cost Modular System with in-built safety
• Strict conformity to test methods
• Fast and reliable performance
• Gas or Electric Ignition
• Temperature in °C or °F

A modular automated instrument designed for quick, reliable flash point testing of fuels, lubricating oils, solvents, chemicals and waste materials.

A universal base unit contains all of the control, data acquisition and display functions required by the interchangeable test modules. Each module is optimised to meet the specific requirements of the relevant method of test.  Modules available for Pensky Martens Flash Point, Tag Closed Cup Flash Point, Abel Closed Cup Flash Point, Cleveland Open Cup Flash Point and Small Scale Closed Cup Flash Point.  Methods: ASTM D93, ASTM D56, ASTM D92 and ASTM D3828.

Automated Pensky Martens Flash Point Tester

The truly modular design provides a cost effective means of flash point testing. Laboratories involved in more than one type of flash point test can purchase additional test modules separately when required.

The Pensky Martens closed cup Module comprises a Test area, Dips pod (Dipping, ignition, pilot and stirrer), flash point detector, sample temperature probe, and all necessary cables to interconnect with the 34000-0 universal base unit.

The Pensky Martens Test area consists of an electrically heated solid block/air bath with a removable sample cup and lid. The lid is equipped with a stirrer, rotating shutter, and ports for the flash detector and sample temperature probe. The Dips pod contains a fire detection probe, stirrer drive, shutter actuator and igniter dipping mechanism with a coaxial gas jet/electric hot wire igniter.

The sample temperature probe is a Class A prT, and flash detection is by a thermocouple. safety features include an initial dip to check that the sample is below its flash point, a prT check to ensure that the correct probe is connected and is immersed in the sample, and new 10°C dipping protocol. When in search mode, the software limits the maximum temperature to 50°C above the "expected flash point".  A bath temperature probe protects against over-temperature, and an independent fire detection probe is mounted over the Pensky Martens test area.

Automated Tag Closed Cup Flash Point Tester

The Tag Closed Cup Flash Point Module comprises a Test area, Dips pod (Dipping, ignition, pilot and stirrer), flash detector, sample temperature probe, bath temperature probe and all necessary cables and pipes to interconnect with the 34000-0 universal base unit and 34008 cooling boost Module.

The Tag closed Cup Flash Point Test area consists of a liquid filled bath with an internal cooling coil, a removable sample cup and lid, and an overflow vessel. The bath is heated by the hotplate within the 34000-0 universal base unit. The cooling coil is connected to the 34008-0 cooling boost Module by flexible pipes allowing circulation of water or cooling fluid via a cryostat for sub ambienttests. The top of the bath has a port for a temperature probe. 

The lid of the sample cup is equipped with a sliding shutter, and ports for the flash detector and sample temperature probe.

The Dips pod contains the shutter actuator and igniter dipping mechanism with a coaxial gas jet/electric hot wire igniter.

The sample and bath temperature probes are Class A prTs, and flash point detection is by a thermocouple.

Safety features include an initial dip to check that the sample is below its flash point at the start of the test and prT checks to ensure that the correct probes are connected and are immersed in bath liquid or sample.  When in search mode, the software limits the maximum temperature to 50°c above "expected flash". an over-temperature cut-out is mounted on the base flange of the bath.

Small Scale Closed Cup Flash Point Tester (Setaflash)

When the need exists for a Setaflash flash point tester, we typically recommend the stand alone system, either manual or automated.  However, if you wish to have this test module available for your Multiflash then this is an option.

The Small Scale (Setaflash) Closed Cup Module comprises a flash point Test area, Dips pod (Dipping, ignition, pilot and stirrer), flash detector, and all necessary cables to interconnect with the 34000-0 universal base unit.

The Test area consists of an electrically heated solid block bath/sample cup with an integral temperature probe. The bath has a network of internal passages and can be connected to a 34008-0 cooling boost Module, allowing circulation of cooling fluid via a cryostat for sub ambient tests.

The hinged lid is equipped with a shutter and ports for the flash detector and injecting sample.  The Dips pod contains the shutter actuator and igniter dipping mechanism with a coaxial gas jet/electric hot wire igniter.  The temperature probe is a Class A prT and flash point detection is by a precision thermocouple.

Safety features include a check to ensure that the sample probe and flash detector are connected. When in search mode, the software limits the maximum temperature to 50°c above "expected flash point".

Note: Call for more information if you require Cleveland Open Cup Flash Point Module or Abel Flash Point Module.  For ore information on Setaflash click here.

Setaflash Series 3 Manual Flash Point Testers

Setaflash Method For: ASTM D3278; D3828 ; D7236; E502; IP 303 (obs) Parts 1 & 2; IP 523; IP 524; IP 534; ISO DIN 3679; ISO 3680; BS EN 456; BS 3900 Part A13; BS 6664 Part 3 & 4; UN Class 3 Non-viscous Flammable Liquids; CHIPS Regulations; EPA 1020 A & B;

• Sub-Ambient Tests and Rapid Cool Down
• Temperature range 10 to 135°C (50 to 275°F)
• Rapid Equilibrium and Ramp tests
• Corrosion Resistant option
• 1 Minute Flash / No Flash and Actual Flash Point
• 2/4ml Sample Size

Setaflash Active Cool is the latest instrument in the highly acclaimed Setaflash Series 3 family of Small Scale Flash Point testers. Peltier cell/ forced air technology allows sub-ambient testing and rapid cool down without the need of an external coolant supply. 

Its compact design, with integral gas tank, automatic flash detection, and an easy to-use control panel, combined with high reliability and accuracy continues to make Setaflash Series 3 the market leader in Small Scale Flash Point testing.

See Also: Setaflash Series 8 Automatic Testers

Setaflash Series 8 Automatic Flash Point Testers

Automatic Setaflash For: ASTM D3278; ASTM D3828; ASTM D7236; ASTM E502; IP 523; IP 524; IP 534; IP 303 (obs); ISO 3679; ISO 3680

• Flash/no flash & ramp mode
• Temperature range of -20°C to 130°C (-4 to 266°F)
• Small sample size, 2 or 4ml
• Corrosion Resistant option
• Electric ignitor (with gas option)
• Automatic dipping and flash detection
• ActiveCool electronic Peltier cooling
• °C or °F temperature display 

The Series 8 'ActiveCool' Setaflash is an automated closed cup flash point tester with a temperature range of 0°C to 130°C (32 to 266°F) with no external cooling. When connected to a suitable water supply, the range is extended down to -20°C (-4°F). 

There are two modes of operation; Flash/No Flash and Ramp. The Setaflash ramp mode (ASTM D7236) increases the sample temperature at a rate of 2°C/min automatically and dips the ignitor every 1°C up to 100°C (every 2°C above 100°C), until either a flash is detected or the end of test temperature is reached. 

Peltier cell technology is used in the Series 8 Setaflash for heating and cooling ensuring precise temperature control and rapid cool down after a test is completed. The ignitor uses an electrical hot wire (a gas flame option is available). The colour LCD shows test parameters and the test result. The text and colour of the top line indicates instrument status. All functions are accessed via menus, navigated by the keypad. 64 test results can be stored in the memory, each tagged with a sample reference and operator name. Results can be downloaded to a PC or printer via the RS232C port (USB or LAN port options available).

See Also Series 3 Manual Setaflash

Seta Multi Filtration Tester (MFT)

ASTM D2068; IP 387 (Procedures A, B & C);

• Portable test for filterability/blocking tendency of Fuel Oils, meeting ASTM D2068
• Testing of Bio components including FAME material and cold soak testing
• Easy to use, fully automated operation with large LCD display
• Results in less than 15 minutes
• Automatic calculation of FBT and F-QF
• Simple calibration/verification of flow, pressure and temperature
• Interface for PC or Printer
• Downloadable Filterability Graph
• Filter housing and filter packs are available according to test method requirements

Cold Flow issues with diesel containing FAME and FAME Material has resulted in the development of the new Energy Institute Cold Soak test method standard to check quality of FAME and diesels to avoid major fuel operability problems.

Fuel cleanliness is also an important issue as modern fuel injectors and injection pumps are being manufactured to more precise tolerances. Particles due to contamination, degradation, or corrosion of storage vessels can quickly clog filtration systems.

Seta MFT is a unique instrument designed to test the Filter Blocking Tendency (FBT) and Filterability Quality Factor (FQF) of diesel, biodiesel, gas oil, gas turbine fuel and kerosene.

Test parameters for IP 387/ D2068 and D6426 test are preprogrammed. 

The Seta MFT has a compact design with a robust carrying case making it easily transportable from the laboratory to the test site.

Setaclean Total Sediment Tester

ASTM D4870; IP 375; IP 390 (Procedure A); ISO 10307;

• Measures sediment up to 0.5%m/m
• Sample viscosities up to 130mm2/s
• 10g sample size
• Two test stations

A compact bench-mounted unit for determining the insoluble material content of distillate and residual fuel oils.

Consists of two filtration cells, heating (steam) and cooling (water) circuits, and a vacuum circuit with Buchner flask and gauge. Each filtration cell comprises a steam heated/water cooled brass cup with a sintered brass disc to support the microfibre filters. Temperature test points are fitted into the steam input lines, and a digital indicator and probe are available as an accessory.

Seta Existent Gum Solid Block Bath

ASTM D381-IP 131; IP 540; BS 2000 Part 131; BS 4348 (obs); ISO 6246; DIN 51 784; NF M07-004; FTM 791 3302; JIS K2261

• 5 Test stations
• Integral steam superheater
• Digital temperature control
• 140 to 260°C temperature range
• Flow gauge calibrated for air and steam

A Solid Block Bath designed to carry out up to five simultaneous tests for determining existent gum content in fuels by the Jet Evaporation method.

The unit comprises a solid block bath with integral superheater, removable taper-fit conical steam/air jet adaptor with copper screens, and a steam/air flow control valve and gauge. The bath has five test wells, and a thermometer well. Outlets can be individually checked for uniform flow of air or steam. The bath has a temperature range of 140 to 260°C, and is controlled by a digital temperature controller which displays both the set temperature and the actual bath temperature measured by a probe. The flow of steam or air is adjusted by an inlet control valve and monitored on a Bourdon gauge calibrated for both air and steam.

Seta-Shell Four Ball Tester

ASTM D2596; D2783; IP 239; IP 300 Procedure A & B (obs); EN ISO 20623; ISO CD 11008; CEC L-45-T-93; (ASTM D2266 & D4172 when used with Wear Loading Kit 19940-0)

• Applied loads range 40 to 800kgF
• Drive speed from 720 to 1900rpm
• Timer range 0.1s to 9999hr
• Torque measurement and limiting
• Full Digital Control
• Digital displays of Applied Load, torque, time
• Safety/splash guard

Determines the friction properties of extreme pressure oils and greases. Used in tribology research laboratories and in the routine quality control of finished lubrication products.

A ball, mounted in a chuck, is rotated against three stationary balls in a pot containing the sample lubricant. The digital speed controller has four programmable presets, three are factory pre-programmed with the most commonly used speeds. A load, adjustable in the range of 40 to 800kgF, is applied to the balls via a balance beam and electric jack. The applied load is displayed on a digital readout. The torque transferred between the rotating and stationary balls is measured and displayed. The digital timer, with a range of 0.1 second to 9999 hours, can be used to control the duration of the test. If the torque exceeds a preset level, or the balls weld, during a test, power to the drive motor is automatically turned off.

Seta Roll Stability Tester

ASTM D1831; MIL-G-10924

• 10 rev/min and 165 rev/min
• Air bath temperature range ambient to 150°C
• Integral timer
• Four test cylinder capacity

The Seta Roll Stability Tester simulates the effect of squeezing grease between the rollers and the outer race of a roller bearing. Up to four test cylinders, each containing a heavy roller, is loaded with the sample grease and placed horizontally upon a set of drive wheels that rotate the cylinders at either 10 or 165 rev/min. A digitally controlled fan assisted air bath provides evenly distributed heating up to 150°C, and an integral timer is used to set the test duration.

Seta Water Washout Tester

ASTM D1264; IP 215; ISO 11009; DIN 51 807; FTM 791 3252

• Bearing speed and water flow fine adjustment
• Jet bypass switch for pre-heat re-circulation
• Easy access drain valve

The test bearing is mounted on a hub, and rotated by an electric motor and toothed belt at 600 rev/min. A peristaltic pump draws heated water from the tank, through a filter, and sprays it, via a 1mm capillary, onto the face of the bearing at a rate of 300ml/min. The temperature of the water is digitally controlled in the range of ambient to 80°C. The water containing washed out grease is collected in the tank, filtered and recycled. A drain tap allows the tank to be emptied at the end of test.

The front panel has controls for water temperature, fine adjustment of water flow rate and bearing rotational speed, and a jet bypass switch to allow pre-heated water to circulate without passing through the jet.

Setafoam Dual Twin Foam Test Baths

ASTM D892; IP 146; BS 2000 Part 146; ISO 6247; NF T60-129; FTM 791 3211; JIS K2518

• High and low temperature baths
• Temperature range ambient to 100°C
• Up to two simultaneous tests per bath
• Two pre-heating stations per bath
• Integral flowmeters and regulators
• Two integral normalising coils

A pair of highly transparent water baths for detecting foaming characteristics in lubricating oils, which could cause inadequate lubrication, overflow and cavitation. The instrument comprises a high temperature (93.5°C) and a low temperature (24°C) bath, each with the capacity to hold four 1000ml graduated glass cylinders. Each bath assembly comprises an inner glass bath contained in a polycarbonate safety vessel, a top mounted thermostir unit and a side mounted module containing two calibrated flowmeters with control valves and protection shields. Integral back-lighting with an opaque reflector aids sample visibility and foam measurements. The low temperature bath also has a cooling coil for use when the ambient temperature exceeds the required bath temperature, and two air normalising coils to cool the air emerging from the high temperature bath test cylinders prior to passing to external volume meters.  The thermostir units provide precision temperature control to within ±0.5°C across a temperature range of ambient to 100°C, and feature a low fluid level alarm. Easy to remove stoppers ensure air tight seals and central location of the diffusers. All air connections are via quick release connectors, and the diffuser tubes can be used with either Mott diffusers or Norton stones.

KV6 Viscometer Bath

ASTM D2170-IP 319, ASTM D2270-IP 226, ASTM D445-IP 71, ASTM D446, BS 188, BS 2000 Parts 71 & 319, DIN 51 366, DIN 51 562, EN 12595, EN 3104, FTM 791 305, ISO 3105, JIS K2283, NF T60-100, NF T60-136

• Up to 6 viscometer tubes
• 50 litre oil/water bath
• Temperature range ambient to 150°C
• Digital display with 0.01°C resolution
• Toughened glass front panel
• Integral back lighting

The Seta KV-6 has a 50 litre temperature controlled bath that can accommodate up to six standard viscometer tubes. Digital temperature control and an inbuilt cold water cooling coil provide accurate and stable test temperatures from ambient to 150°C (±0.02°C up to100°C and ±0.05°C between 100 and 150°C). The bath is protected by low liquid level and overtemperature cut-outs.

Equipped with a toughened glass front window, easily accessible drain valve, integral back lighting, top plate, provision for reference thermometer and attachment.

Seta Oil Test Centrifuge

API 2542, API 2548, ASTM D1290, ASTM D1796, ASTM D1966, ASTM D2273, ASTM D2709, ASTM D2711, ASTM D4007, ASTM D5546, ASTM D893, ASTM D91, ASTM D96 (obs), IP 359, IP 75 (obs), ISO 3734, ISO 9030

• Conforms to safety requirements IEC 1010-1; 1010-2-D
• 4 place swing out rotor
• Static, near vertical bucket positioning
• Specifically designed for testing oils
• Heated chamber, ambient to 80°C
• Membrane ‘touch’ control panel
• Pre-heat facility to ensure bowl is at test temperature prior to test
• Universal buckets for 12.5ml, 6 and 8 inch glassware
• Optional ‘Setafuge’ Hazard Reduction System
• Microprocessor control with 99 memories

Seta Oil Test Centrifuge is fully programmable allowing automatic configuration to the specified oil test parameters. A four place swing out rotor and universal bucket assembly accommodates low cost adaptors and cushions suitable for borosilicate glass centrifuge tubes of the types specified for oil testing: 6 or 8 inch conical, 8 inch trace sediment, 8 inch pear-shaped or 12.5ml. To reduce errors in measurement of tube content, the rotor design allows tubes to stand in a near upright (vertical) position at rest.

SAFETY features include a motor driven lid latch with a safety interlock to prevent centrifuge operation while the lid is unlocked, imbalance detection, and over-temperature protection for both the motor and the chamber. The centrifuge is almost silent in operation with measured noise levels below 55 dB (A). Two types of trolleys are available as optional accessories to allow easy movement of the instrument. The centrifuge meets the safety requirements of BS 4402; DIN 58970; IEC 1010-1; IEC 1010-2-D; pr EN 61 010-1 & 61 010-1; BGR 500; Chapter 2.11; Part 3; UVV VBG4; and VDE 0871.

Setavap2 Portable RVP Tester

ASTM D5191; IP 394; IP 409 (37.8°C); IP 481; EN 13016-1; EN 13016-2 (37.8°C); Correlates with: D323; D4953; D5482; D6378; IP 69; IP 402 (obs); ISO3007; EN 12 (obs); JIS K2258; NF M07-079

• Rapid automatic vapour pressure testing
• Automatic drain and purge
• “Mini” method uses only 3ml sample size
• Selectable units - kPa or psi
• Results available as Ptot, DVPE, EPA, Crude, Pabs
• Audible and on-screen prompts 

The Setavap 2 is an automated instrument for the measurement of the vapour pressure of gasoline, solvents, light crude oils, and other similar products using the “Mini” test method.  Fully evacuated chamber technology guarantees that the sample is tested under a full vacuum, as required by the “Mini” test methods, unlike the expansion technologies that rely on moving pistons.

All functions are accessed via a two button keypad and a rotary control.  The digital display leads the operator through the test sequence, displays the instrument status and the test results. An audible prompt is sounded when an action is required from the operator. A sample is injected through a septum into a fixed volume chamber that is maintained at 37.8°C ± 0.1°C. The vapour to liquid ratio is 4:1. The pressure is automatically measured at one minute intervals until three readings are within 0.1 kPa, which determines the end of the test.  Results can be displayed as total pressure (Ptot), dry vapour pressure equivalent (DVPE), EPA requirements, or Reid (crude) using preprogrammed correlation equations, and may be printed via the integral RS232 port and optional 81002-0 printer. A facility is included to allow two part tests (Pabs) to be conducted at 37.8°C. All valve operations are automated including sample draining and chamber venting and purging. The valves utilise solvent resistant Kalrez seals.  Calibration of temperature and pressure is automated and simple to carry out.

Seta Reid Vapour Pressure Bath

ASTM D323 Procedures A, C & D; D1267; D4953 Procedure A; IP 69 Procedures A, C & D; IP 402 (obs); IP 410; BS 2000 Parts 69, 402 (obs), 410, ISO 3007; ISO 4256; EN 12 (obs); FTM 791 1201; NF 12 (obs); NF M07-007; NF M41-010 (LPG); JIS K2258

• Accepts up to 6 pressure cylinder assemblies
• Temperature range ambient to 90°C (194°F) ± 0.1°C
• Uniformity better than ± 0.1°C @ 37.8°C ( ± 0.2°F @ 100°F)
• Digital temperature control
• Low fluid level and over-temperature protection

A floor standing water bath specifically designed for the determination of vapour pressure with Seta Reid or Seta Vapour pressure cylinders. The stainless steel 80 litre water bath has a temperature range of ambient +5°C to 90°C and can achieve a test temperature of 37.8°C (100°F) with a uniformity of ±0.1°C (0.2°F).

A programmable, digitally controlled thermostir unit combines the functions of heater, temperature controller, timer and stirrer. The thermostir unit is equipped with an RS 232 port, a switched output for an external relay, a socket for an external PT100 temperature probe and alarms and cut-outs for low fluid level and over-temperature. The 22210-3 will accept up to four 22410-0 and up to six 22400-0 Seta Vapour Pressure Cylinder / Ullage Chamber assemblies.

Setavap Analyzer

ASTM D5188; D5191; IP 394; IP 409; EN 13016-1; EN 13016-2 (37.8°C) Correlates with: ASTM D323; D2533; D4953; D5482; D6378; IP 69; IP 402 (obs); ISO 3007; EN 12 (obs); JIS K2258; NF M07-079

• Five vapour pressure modes, including Reid
• Vapour-Liquid ratio mode
• Automatic operation
• Selectable units
• Integral printer
• RS232 interface

An automatic multi-mode vapour pressure tester with a pressure range of 0 to700kPa (0 to 100psi) and a temperature range of 25°C (45°F) below ambient to 100°C (212°F).  Five vapour pressure test modes, including a Reid vapour pressure mode, allow single or multiple vapour pressure tests to be carried out on a sample at static, ramping or stepped temperatures. A vapour-liquid mode enables the user to determine the temperature required to produce a pre-set pressure.

All functions are accessed via a membrane keypad/digital display, while audible and visual prompts advise the status of the instrument and progress of the tests. Units of pressure can be presented in kPa, psi (lbf/in2), kg/cm2, mbar, mmHg, or inHg, and units of temperature can be set to °C or °F. The Setavap analyser is fully automatic apart from the injection of sample. To ensure gas tight operation, the septum is in strip form and automatically advances for each test. A septum strip is sufficient for up to 50 tests.

At the end of the test the sample is automatically drained and the test results, with time, date, and sample identity, are output via the integral printer and RS232 port.
Calibration is automated and can be carried out at either full vacuum, atmospheric pressure, or high pressure. A calibration certificate can be printed out. 

Liquid & Solid Block Baths for Oxidation Stability Tests

• RPVOT Bath and Pressure Monitoring Systems
• Oxidation Stability Tests Baths and Pressure Monitoring Systems
• OxiCor Combination Bath for Oxidation and Corrosion Testing
• Universal High Temperature Oxidation Bath
• Seta TOST Bath
• Seta Oxidation Bath With Oxiflo Controller
• Seta HITS Bath

Temperature Controlled Baths for Copper Corrosion, Silver Corrosion and Rust Prevention Characteristics

• Copper and Silver Corrosion Baths
• Corrosion Test Kits
• LPG Copper Corrosion Bath
• Seta Rust Prevention Bath

Manual Cloud and Pour Point Bath

ASTM D2500-IP 219, ASTM D5853-IP 441, ASTM D6422, ASTM D97-IP15

• Four test positions
• Temperature range 9°C to -69°C

A test bath with stainless steel cover and a drain tap. Accommodates four test jackets and a bath thermometer.

Cold Filter Plugging Point Bath and Apparatus

ASTM D6371, BS 2000 Part 309, BS 6188, EN 116, IP 309, NF 116

• Determines low-temperature flow characteristics of diesel fuels, gas oils and other distillate fuels
• Compatible with fuels containing flow improving additives

Seta Freezing Point Apparatus

ASTM D2386; IP16

• Detects solid hydrocarbon crystals
• Reference method

Comprises sample tube, paddle, unsilvered flask, cork stopper/thermometer support, and an insulated metal case with a viewing slot.

Stanhope Seta Equipment & Accessories for other Test Methods

Stanhope Seta manufactures a wide variety of instruments and components for other petroleum and petrochemical test methods.

To look up a particular ASTM method please visit our ASTM Test Method Database