flash point — Oil & Gas Glossary
The lowest temperature at which application of a flame to the test chamber of a tester causes vapors of the sample in the chamber to ignite. The test can be applied to base fluids being considered for use in an oil mud or a synthetic mud or to any flammable liquid to determine at what temperature an explosion hazard exists.
Detailed Explanation
Test methods, established by API and ASTM, include open-cup and closed-cup tests.