Tagliabue Closed-Cup Flash Point Tester Series - TAG 500 and TAG 300

Significance of Flash Point Testing

Flash point measurement is a fundamental safety assessment in analytical chemistry, determining the lowest temperature at which a liquid emits enough vapor to ignite. Accurate flash point data is crucial for handling, storage, transportation, and regulatory compliance of flammable liquids in industries such as fuel production, solvents, fragrances, and quality control laboratories.

Objectives and Overview

The Tagliabue Closed-Cup Flash Point Tester Series (TAG 300 and TAG 500) aims to deliver fully automated, high-precision flash point determinations in compliance with international standards. The instruments cover a broad temperature range, integrate rapid maintenance cycles, and offer enhanced user safety and data connectivity.

Methodology

The flash point is determined in a closed cup according to standards such as ASTM D56, ASTM D3934, ISO 1516, ISO 1523, EN 924, IP 491, and IP 492. The tester heats the sample at a controlled rate and introduces an electric igniter to detect the flash. Automatic barometric pressure correction and Pt100 temperature monitoring ensure precision across varied laboratory conditions.

Used Instrumentation

• TAG 300: Tagliabue closed-cup tester with internal Peltier cooling enabling sample temperatures from –7 °C to 110 °C and flash point range of 10 °C to 110 °C.
• TAG 500: Enhanced model with optional external cooling down to –35 °C and flash point determination from 10 °C to 130 °C. Offers optional gas ignition and integrated fire-extinguishing system.

Main Findings and Discussion

Both TAG models feature an electric igniter with patented ceramic coatings, providing a lifetime ten times longer than competing devices. The robust cooling systems—internal Peltier and optional external chillers—enable reliable testing from –35 °C to +130 °C. Automatic flash detection via thermocouple and fail-safe fire detection with integrated CO2/N2 extinguishing ensure operator safety. Intelligent status lights and full LIMS connectivity through Anton Paar’s AP Connect software streamline workflow and maintain data integrity.

Benefits and Practical Applications

The TAG series enhances laboratory productivity through:

• High sample throughput and minimal downtime due to rapid disassembly and cleaning of wetted parts.
• Compliance with a wide range of global flash point standards for fuels, solvents, and specialty chemicals.
• Improved safety with automatic fire-extinguishing systems and user-level access management.
• Flexible operation with or without external chillers, accommodating diverse sample types and temperature requirements.
• Seamless data management via USB, LAN, automated email, or LIMS export.

Future Trends and Opportunities

Advancements in flash point testing will likely focus on further miniaturization, increased automation, and real-time remote monitoring. Integration with Industry 4.0 platforms, enhanced AI-driven diagnostics for maintenance prediction, and greener cooling technologies are expected to shape the next generation of safety analyzers.

Conclusion

The Anton Paar TAG 300 and TAG 500 Tagliabue Closed-Cup Flash Point Testers provide accurate, reliable, and safe flash point determination across a wide temperature range. Their innovative design, long-life igniters, and comprehensive software connectivity position them as leading solutions for industrial and research laboratories.

References

No literature references were cited in the source document.