Failure Analysis Techniques for the Evaluation of Electrical and Electronic Components in Aircraft Accident Investigations

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Abstract:

Failure analysis techniques for the evaluation of electrical and electronic components are summarized for lamps, wiring, connectors, switches, magnetic materials, printed wiring boards and microelectronic devices. Techniques using optical and scanning electron microscopy SEM for the analysis of these components are described. Energy Dispersive X-ray analysis EDAX of elemental constituents, X-ray radiography, and specialized electrical measurements are also described. The potential for the techniques to distinguish pre-accident conditions from post-impact damage was assessed. Data on the failure rates of aircraft electrical components was reviewed. Data from the Air Force Mishap database indicates that 36 percent of electrical failures on aircraft are caused by interconnections wiring and connectors. Corrosion is identified as a major cause of connector problems.

Author(s):
Galler, Donald ; Allison, Donald E. ; Mercaldi, David W.
Author Organization(s):
FAILURE ANALYSIS ASSOCIATES WESTBOROUGH MA
Descriptive Note:
Final rept. Sep 1989-Apr 1990
Pagination:
0151

Security Markings

DOCUMENT & CONTEXTUAL SUMMARY

Distribution:
Approved For Public Release
Distribution Statement:
Approved For Public Release; Distribution Is Unlimited.

RECORD

Collection: TR
Identifying Numbers
Report Number(s):
WRDC-TR-90-4075
Contract/Grant Number(s):
F33615-89-C-5647
Task Number(s):
52
Project Number(s):
3005
Monitor Series:
TR-90-4075, WRDC
 Subject Terms
Joint Capability Areas:
JCA_5_Command and Control; JCA_5.3_Planning; JCA_5.5_Direct; JCA_5.5.1_Communicate Intent and Guidance; JCA_4.3_Maintain; JCA_1.3.2_Personnel Management; JCA_1.2.5_Lessons Learned; JCA_5.5.2_Task
Modernization Areas:
Microelectronics
Communities of Interest:
Advanced Electronics
Descriptor(s):
*ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT, *AVIATION ACCIDENTS, *ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT, DATA BASES, ELECTRONICS, AIR FORCE, SCANNING ELECTRON MICROSCOPES, RATES, ELECTRON MICROSCOPY, MICROELECTRONICS, FAILURE(ELECTRONICS), DISPERSIONS, MAGNETIC MATERIALS, ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENT, RADIOGRAPHY, MAGNETS, CONNECTORS, PRINTED CIRCUITS, AIRCRAFT EQUIPMENT, ACCIDENT INVESTIGATIONS, SUBMINIATURE ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT, OPTICAL ANALYSIS, X RAYS, FAILURE, AIRCRAFT, CORROSION, ENERGY
Field(s)/Group(s):
Aircraft, Electrical and Electronic Equipment
Keyword(s):
PE65502F, WUWRDC30055263
Report Date:
1990 Aug 01