The purpose of this report is to provide information on the results of ultraviolet (UV) laser marking and mark contrast measurement of a wide range of aerospace wire and cable constructions, the specifications for most of which do not state specific requirements for laser markability. The contents of this document are for information and guidance only. It is not intended that it be used as the basis for marking process specifications or standards, which are covered by AS5649.
The thermal modeling guidelines and best practices provided in this document are applicable to powered aerospace vehicle wires and wire bundles in thermal environments ranging from -65 to +260 °C (-85 to +500 °F) and pressures ranging from sea level to space vacuum. Currently the ARP only considers steady state and direct current conditions. The effects of wiring terminations and connectors are not addressed. Both can significantly impact the overall current derating and safety margins for a wiring system.
This standard is applicable to manual soldering and machine soldering processes utilizing controlled soldering devices, for electrical connections for wiring and cabling used in aerospace vehicles. Description of a component or device herein is not to be construed as authorizing the use of the component or device.
This document covers the general recommendations for Transverse Electromagnetic Mode (TEM) Transmission Lines intended for use in airborne systems (see 6.2.14). For U.S military applications, TEM Transmission Lines shall meet the requirements in accordance with MIL-T-81490. The follow index lists the recommended requirements and methods covered by the Aerospace Recommended Practice (ARP):
Wire and cable products progress through a series of handling or operational steps from the time they leave the manufacturer, and until a finished harness or assembly is ready for installation on a vehicle. Throughout these many steps, environmental or processing conditions may be present which can generate damage detrimental to the wire or cable and/or its intended application.
This standard is applicable to the marking of aerospace vehicle electrical wires and cables using ultraviolet (UV) lasers. This standard specifies the process requirements for the implementation of UV laser marking of aerospace electrical wire and cable and fiber optic cable to achieve an acceptable quality mark using equipment designed for UV laser marking of identification codes on aerospace wire and cable. Wiring specified as UV laser markable subject to AS4373 and which has been marked in accordance with this standard will conform to the requirements of AS50881.