Aviation data company FlightAware estimates that there is an average of 9,728 planes carrying 1.27 million people in the air at any given moment. With that in mind, it should come as no surprise that it’s essential to maintain safe and properly functioning electrical components in any aircraft setting. Many people underestimate the importance of wire labeling and covering in this industry, but it makes a bigger difference in safety and proper setup than most people realize. That being said, here’s what you need to know about the importance of wire labeling and covering in the aircraft and aviation industry.
Prevent Overcurrent
An overcurrent occurs in an electrical circuit when the normal load current is exceeded. There are two basic forms of overcurrents: overloads and short circuits. The use of fuses and circuit breakers protect workers, consumers, and equipment when dangerous overcurrents occur. But the wiring also makes a difference — safe t cables need to be covered and insulated properly to minimize risk. Electrical hazards lead to more than 300 deaths and 4,000 injuries among U.S. workers every year. Currently, electrocution is the sixth leading cause of workplace deaths in America. But these risks become even more severe in aircraft and aviation settings due to the high altitudes.
Increase Resistance to Damaging Elements
At the typical cruising altitude of 35,000 feet, the air pressure drops by more than 75%; the outside temperature drops to negative 60 degrees Fahrenheit. For this reason, it’s important for safe t cables and other aviation wires to be properly insulated. An improperly insulated wire is more susceptible to certain types of damage. With that in mind, insulation type is often selected based on resistance to abrasion and corrosion, overall strength, dielectric abilities, heat distortion, flame resistance, impact and mechanical strength, smoke emission, and resistance to fluids. A 100% rated circuit breaker is intended for continuous operation at 100% of its marked rating, meaning it will carry 100% of the rated current without overheating or tripping. When used in tandem with properly insulated wired, overheating risk is virtually nonexistent, keeping aviation passengers and engineers safe.
Ultimately, understanding the importance of proper wire insulation in the aviation industry is integral to selecting the right electrical components based on your needs. For more information about wire sleeving, contact us today.
