Aerospace

Safeguard the Skies! Secure Cable Reliability

The importance of cable systems in aerospace cannot be overstated. These intricate networks of cables play a critical role in ensuring the safety, functionality, and efficiency of aircraft and spacecraft.

Communication cables carry essential signals between avionics systems, sensors, and control units. Whether it’s transmitting flight data, navigation information, or communication signals, reliable cables are vital for seamless operation.

Power distribution cables transmit electrical power throughout the aircraft. From cockpit instruments to lighting systems, power cables ensure that critical systems receive the necessary energy. Failures in power distribution can lead to catastrophic consequences.

An overview of cable types commonly found in aerospace:

Coaxial Cables: These cables consist of a central conductor surrounded by an insulating layer, a metallic shield, and an outer insulating jacket. Coaxial cables are used for high-frequency signal transmission, such as in communication systems and radar equipment.
Data Bus Cables: These cables facilitate communication between various avionics systems within an aircraft. They transmit digital data and control signals, ensuring seamless operation of navigation, communication, and flight control systems.
Fiber Optic Cables: Fiber optic cables use light signals to transmit data. They offer high bandwidth, immunity to electromagnetic interference, and lightweight properties. Fiber optics are commonly used for high-speed data transmission, video displays, and avionics networking.
Thermocouple Cables: Thermocouples measure temperature by exploiting the voltage generated at the junction of two dissimilar metals. Thermocouple cables are used to connect temperature sensors in engines, avionics, and environmental control systems.
PTFE/ETFE Power Cables: These cables are designed for power distribution in aerospace applications. PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) and ETFE (ethylene tetrafluoroethylene) insulation provide excellent resistance to high temperatures, chemicals, and radiation.
Customised Assemblies: Aerospace cables often require custom configurations to fit specific aircraft designs. Custom assemblies may include combinations of different cable types, connectors, and shielding.
MIL-Spec Cables: These cables adhere to military specifications (MIL-STD) and are widely used in aerospace. They meet rigorous standards for performance, durability, and reliability.

Aerospace cables must withstand extreme conditions, including mechanical stress, temperature fluctuations, and exposure to radiation. Manufacturers continually innovate to develop cables that balance performance, weight reduction, and safety for aviation applications.

Cable testing secures reliable data transmission and energy flow. It also ensures adherence to safety standards in this challenging industry. As an example, cables must minimise electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI). Shielding and proper grounding prevent disruptions to sensitive avionics equipment.

AESA makes measurement instruments available to perform such testing.