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Evaluation of Kapton pyrolysis, arc tracking, and arc propagation on the Space Station Freedom (SSF) solar array flexible current carrier (FCC)Recent studies involving the use of polyimide Kapton coated wires indicate that if a momentary electrical short circuit occurs between two wires, sufficient heating of the Kapton can occur to themally chlar (pyrolyze) the Kapton. Such charred Kapton has sufficient electricxl conductivity to create an arc which tracks down the wires and possibly propagates to adjoining wires. These studies prompted an invetigation to ascertain the likelihood of Kapton pyrolysis, arc tracking and propagation phenomena, and the magnitude of destruction conceivably inflicted on Space Station Freedom's (SSF's) Flexible Current Carrier (FCC) for the photovoltaic array. The geometric layout of the FCC, having a planar-type orientation as opposed to bundles, may reduce the probability of sustaining an arc. An experimental investigation was conducted to simulate conditions under which an arc can occur on the FCC of the SSF, and the consequences of arc initiation.
Document ID
19920070585
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Stueber, Thomas J.
(Sverdrup Technology, Inc.; NASA, Lewis Research Center Cleveland, OH, United States)
Date Acquired
August 15, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1991
Subject Category
Spacecraft Propulsion And Power
Meeting Information
Meeting: IEEE Photovoltaic Specialists Conference
Location: Las Vegas, NV
Country: United States
Start Date: October 7, 1991
End Date: October 11, 1991
Accession Number
92A53209
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NAS3-25266
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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