Flammabiliity: Small Part Exemption (SPE) 1

[lgarby]

Hello all, I am new to this forum and stumbled across it will searching for a solution to a problem I am having.

I am installing a small ribbon cable approx 3/4" by 4" that has a PVC insulation. I know that PVC is not allowed but this cable with a teflon insulation just does not exist with out an expensive custom order in large quantities. I wanted to know if this could qualify for SPE or if I could wrap a certified heatshrink around the cable? Ive heard in some cases you can get away with that.

Your oppinions are greatly appriciated, Thanks.

-Loren

 

[der8110]

Welcome. Opinions are about all you could expect. This is one of the most divisive topics out there. By ribbon cable I'd assume it is flat - if so, my opinion is that is definitely small parts. Unless of course there are a thousand such pieces.

Along that line, it is amazing the lengths that (pick your favorite Dilbert character) will go to assemble small part after small part just to avoid a $100 burn test. Also recognize that wire and cable is a different burn test - so it just might pass!

Two viewpoints (out of a thousand) are (1) if it is smaller than a 3x12" specimen it does not have to be burned, and (2) 1/2 pound.

 

[epeus]

Check out the proposed FAA Memorandum Memo No. ANM-115-09-XXX 'Policy Statement on Flammability Testing of Interior Materials'

It contains alot of good information regarding the flammability requirements which may help in your case.

Below is the Summary;

Summary
This policy statement provides guidance on acceptable methods of compliance with the flammability requirements of Title 14, Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) part 25 for
commonly constructed parts, construction details, and materials.

hth