Understanding Flammable vs. Inflammable: Can You Help Clarify My Doubts?

Hi all, I am Natarajan from India, specifically Tamil Nadu, studying safety. I would like to understand the differences between flammable, inflammable, and highly inflammable. Kindly guide me as I have several doubts that need clarification.

Thank you and regards,
Natarajan R.

Hi, as you are a student, I suggest you find out the answers yourself. I can give you a clue. Please refer to the Petroleum Act (available on the Internet) where the definitions are provided.

Thanks & Regards,
Sudhir

In my opinion, flammable means those substances that catch fire by themselves under favorable conditions, while inflammable means those that do not burn by themselves. Highly flammable substances are those that catch fire easily under favorable conditions, e.g., petrol.

Regards,
Ajay Sharma

Clarification on Flammable Terms

Flammable means capable of catching fire readily.

Inflammable means quickly and easily set on fire and burned.

Highly flammable means having the highest readiness or capability of catching fire.

Regards,
Suri Babu Komakula

Both words "Flammable" and "Inflammable" have the same meaning, and "highly flammable" means quickly catching fire.

Regards,
V. Subbarao

Flammable, Inflammable, and Highly Inflammable

- **Flammable:** Flash point > 23 degrees Celsius
- **Inflammable:** Flash point equal to 23 degrees Celsius
- **Highly Inflammable:** Flash point less than 23 degrees Celsius

Regards.

You have hit the nail right on the head, and you are correct too. Generally, these terms are used differently by the US and British. The British favor "inflammable," while Americans use "flammable." Both terms are correct and mean the same thing, i.e., easily ignitable.

Thank you.