Comment:
Even when residual fuels are at a temperature below their measured flash point they are capable of producing light hydrocarbons.
Info Centre >> Fuel and Lube Oil Technical Manual >> 2. Fuel Oil - Characteristics >> 2.4 Flash Point
Fuel Oil Flash Point
The flash point of a fuel is the temperature at which vapour given off will ignite when an external flame is applied under standardised conditions.
A flash point is defined to minimise fire risk during normal storage and handling. The minimum flash point for fuel in the machinery space of a merchant ship is governed by international legislation and the value is 60°C. For fuels used for emergency purposes, external to the machinery space, the flash point must be greater than 43°C. The normal maximum storage temperature of a fuel is 10°C below the flash point, unless special arrangements are otherwise made.