Arc Tracking (Dry Arc Propagation Resistance) (NASA Test 18)

Arc Tracking (Dry Arc Propagation Resistance)
The purpose of this test is to provide an assessment of the ability of an insulation to prevent damage in an electrical arc environment.  This test also evaluates the ability of the insulation to prevent further arc propagation when the electrical arc is re-energized. This test method evaluates the general arc propagation resistance characteristics of wire insulation.  The test consists of connecting five wires of a seven-wire bundle to a specified power supply and installing the bundle in a test fixture to hold the wire bundle perpendicular to an abrader blade.  The abrader blade is used to initiate an arc through oscillation.  The extent of damage caused by arc propagation and the capability of wires to maintain their dielectric strength are evaluated…Learn more