The central question concerns the flammability of a specific substance when subjected to the conditions created by being propelled from a large-bore artillery piece. Mineral oil, a derivative of petroleum, possesses a relatively high flash point compared to more volatile fuels like gasoline or alcohol. The high flash point means it requires a considerable heat source to generate sufficient vapor to form an ignitable mixture with air. For example, typical mineral oil has a flash point above 300F (150C), whereas gasoline’s flash point is often below -40F (-40C).
Understanding the substance’s properties and the specific scenario is critical. Artillery pieces generate significant force and heat during firing. However, the primary energy is directed towards propelling the projectile, not necessarily towards raising the temperature of any lubricating or ancillary materials. Furthermore, historically, artillery lubrication focused on reducing friction and preventing corrosion rather than initiating combustion. Military effectiveness benefits from reliability and predictability, making spontaneous ignition of lubricants an undesirable and potentially hazardous outcome.
