Meaning and Purpose
4.1 Mixtures of flammable and non-flammable liquids, such as mixtures of alcohol and water, are classified by the US government according to the definition of flammable liquids based on the closed cup flash point method. Therefore, mixtures can be classified as flammable even if they cannot withstand combustion. This test method determines the ability of a liquid mixture to sustain combustion and, when used in conjunction with the closed cup flash point method, indicates the flammability characteristics of the mixture.

ASTM D 4206-96-2018 Test for Continuous Combustion of Liquid Mixtures with a Miniature Cup Opener

Scope of
1.1 This test method 2 describes the procedure for determining the sustained combustion characteristics of flammable and non-flammable liquid mixtures and mixtures containing liquids with very different flash points.

1.2 Values expressed in inch-pounds should be considered standard values. The values given in parentheses are mathematical transformations of SI units and are for reference only and are not considered standard.

1.3 This standard shall be used to measure and describe the reaction of materials, products or components to heat and flame under controlled conditions and shall not be used to describe or evaluate the fire hazard or fire risk of materials, products or components under actual fire conditions. However, the test results can be used as elements of a fire hazard assessment or fire risk assessment, where all factors relevant to the assessment of fire hazard or fire risk for a particular end-use are taken into account.

1.4 This standard is not intended to address all safety issues, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health and environmental practices and to determine the applicability of regulatory restrictions prior to use.

1.5 This international Standard has been developed in accordance with the internationally recognized standardization principles established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guidelines and Recommendations issued by the Committee on Technical Barriers to Trade of the World Trade Organization.