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Difference between Flammable and Combustible
Nov
22
2011
Difference between Flammable and Combustible
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Answer #1
Combustible and flammable are both related to fire. However, they each have their own distinctive meanings. People generally have a dilemma when it comes to classifying and measuring these terms. Explained below are the main differences.
1. Calculation
The combustion capability of a substance is measured through using an apparatus known as a calorimeter. This apparatus uses a very simple concept. A calorimeter functions with the assistance of a jar that contains substances of already recognized combustion properties. The specific material that is being measured is heated in a way that the whole heat gets transferred automatically into the material inside the jar or container. This means the material placed in the container is going to experience an increase in temperature. After that, the rate and of heat combustion is then easily measured. In contrast, to determine the extent of flammability of any material or substance, it requires being passed through a process called fire testing. There are many test protocols being used currently for quantifying the level of flammability.
2. Properties
Flammable materials are the ones that can catch fire easily under the normal circumstances as well as with minimal ignition. Even one spark is adequate for causing flammable substances to ignite. The best example of such a substance is propane. Precautions should therefore be taken when storing flammable materials both outside and inside of a building structure. Appropriate steps are also used when carrying these substances on airplanes. Meanwhile, combustible materials include any substance that burns easily. Propane can be placed here in this category also. However, more vigorous situations are needed for combustible substances to burn. Simple sparks are therefore insufficient. The best examples of such materials include wood or paper.
Remember that all flammable items are essentially combustible, but not all combustible items are flammable. Furthermore, combustion is measured with a calorimeter, while flammability is measured using a fire test.