What is an Auto ignition Temperature?
A material’s auto ignition or ignition temperature is the temperature at which a material self-ignites without any obvious sources of ignition, such as a spark or flame. Most common flammable and combustible liquids have auto ignition temperatures in the range of 300C (572F) to 550C (1022F). Some have very low auto ignition temperatures. For example, ethyl ether has an auto ignition temperature of 160C (356F) and its vapors have been ignited by hot steam pipes. Serious accidents have resulted when solvent-evaporating ovens were heated to temperatures above the auto ignition temperature of the solvents used. Auto ignition temperatures, however, are intended as guides, not as fine lines between safe and unsafe. Use all precautions necessary.
