What are the flash point and ignition point of gasoline?
2 Answers
The flash point of gasoline is between -50 to -20°C, the ignition point is 427°C, and the auto-ignition temperature is 510--530°C. Below is the relevant introduction: 1. Ignition point: The ignition point refers to the minimum temperature at which a substance begins and continues to burn when heated in air. 2. Flash point: The flash point is the lowest temperature at which the vapor and air mixture above the heated oil can ignite momentarily when a flame is passed over it under specified heating conditions, expressed in °C. The flash point of an oil product indicates its flammability, the content of volatile compounds, the degree of vaporization, and safety. The hazard classification of oil products is also determined based on the flash point. 3. Auto-ignition temperature: The auto-ignition temperature is the minimum temperature at which an oil product, when heated to a very high temperature and exposed to air, spontaneously ignites due to intense oxidation without any external ignition source.
I've always been fascinated by the details of cars, such as the flash point and ignition point of gasoline. The flash point of gasoline is approximately -43 degrees Celsius, meaning that at extremely low temperatures, gasoline vapors can ignite—not sustain a continuous burn, but rather flash into flames upon sudden contact with an ignition source. The ignition point is slightly higher, typically between -38 degrees Celsius and -43 degrees Celsius, which is the temperature at which gasoline can truly sustain combustion. Why is gasoline designed to have such low values? It's to ensure that during cold starts, gasoline can evaporate and ignite quickly, helping the engine to start running. However, this also introduces significant risks. Gasoline is highly flammable, and any accidental leakage or proximity to a heat source can be dangerous. For instance, when handling gasoline cans in a garage, they must be stored in a cool, shaded area away from sunlight. Otherwise, if the temperature rises slightly, the vapors can escape, and a single spark could cause an explosion. That's why I always emphasize this point when working on cars—safety comes first. Remember these values: the flash point is low, and the ignition point is close, so don't confuse them. This is crucial for everyday driving. Always turn off the engine when refueling, and avoid using your phone during the process.
