Is vacuum pump oil flammable?
Is vacuum pump oil flammable?
While vacuum pump oil is combustible and can be flammable under certain conditions (like extreme heat and the presence of an ignition source), it is not flammable under normal conditions of use. It has a high flash point, meaning it requires high temperatures to ignite, according to multiple safety data sheets.
Here’s a more detailed explanation:
- Combustible, not flammable under normal use:Vacuum pump oil is a type of mineral oil, similar to motor oil, and it is combustible. However, it’s not easily ignited under normal operating conditions.
- High flash point:It has a high flash point, meaning it needs to be heated to a high temperature (e.g., >200°C or 400°F) before it will ignite.
- Potential for combustion:If the oil is subjected to extreme heat and an ignition source, it can burn.
- Hazardous decomposition products:If it does burn, it can produce hazardous combustion products such as carbon oxides, nitrogen oxides, and smoke.
- Static discharge:In certain situations, like high flow rates or splash filling, static electricity can build up and potentially ignite flammable vapors. Proper grounding and bonding procedures should be followed to mitigate this risk.
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