Standardization of Flammability Tests for Hydraulic Fluids.

The modification of the physical and chemical properties of various fluids developed for use as hydraulic fluids has necessitated the development or modification of tests required to evaluate the performance criteria of these fluids. The Federal Government utilized certain Federal Test Methods and ASTM flammability test procedures in fluid specification requirements to determine the relative flammability of fluids currently being developed for use as hydraulic fluids. These tests include the flash and fire points, autoignition temperature, flame propagation, high-pressure spray, and hot manifold ignition test procedures. Unfortunately, as fluid composition and applications change, new or modified tests must be developed to provide accurate assessments of the fluids' performance. This report presents the results produced by a systematic study of mist-flammability parameters that will lead to development of a standard mist-flammability test for hydraulic fluid specification purposes.