What Does Lower Explosive Limit (LEL) Mean?
The lower explosive limit (LEL) is the lowest concentration of gas, fumes, or vapors required to produce fire in the presence of an ignition source like flame or heat. In the United States, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provides guideline limits for the presence of explosive and flammable liquids in the air as well as the for the safe storage of these materials to prevent fire and explosion.
The lower explosive limit is also known as the lower flammable limit (LFL).