How are control cables tested corrosion?

Corrosion will be indicated by broken wires or powdered, oxidized metal on the surface of the cable. Examine the cable by rubbing it with a soft white cotton cloth. If the cloth snags, broken wires are present.

What is the purpose of a control cable aviation?

Cables are the most widely used linkage in primary flight control systems. Cable-type linkage is also used in engine controls, emergency extension systems for the landing gear, and various other systems throughout the aircraft.

How do we prevent corrosion and broken strands?

The amount of corrosion can be reduced by reducing the exposed surface. This can be done by galvanizing the rope wires. A steel core can also be protected by a plastic coating. An internal and external lubrication will also reduce or prevent corrosion.

What should be done to a control cable having some internal corrosion and why?

Replace cables that have internal corrosion. Remove light external corrosion with a nonwoven abrasive pad lightly soaked in oil or, alternatively, a steel wire brush. When corrosion products have been removed, recoat the cable with preservative.

What is cable inspection?

A visual inspection of all the cables in your facility is a great way to find trouble before it causes you a downtime. We look for corrosion on the copper, cracks in the insulation, moisture on the cables and many other indicators of damage to the cables.

Where is the cable tension checked?

Aileron systems actually have three cables: two cables connect the left and right bellcranks to the control wheels, and a third, “carry–through” cable connects the two bellcranks to each other. A tensiometer is used to check the tension on each cable.

How does a control cable work?

Control cables are multi-conductor cables used in automation and instrumentation applications. Control cables can measure and regulate transmissions of automated processes. Control cables are often UL rated. Control cables typically are shielded with a foil shield, braid shield or combination of the two.

What is done to check for slippage of the cable end?

Check the cable for slippage at the masking tape and for cut and broken wire strands. Using a go/no-go gauge supplied by the swaging tool manufacturer or a micrometer and swaging chart, check the terminal shank diameter for proper dimension. [Figures 2-69 and 2-70]

What type of corrosion prevention is used on control cable?

The traditional method for preventing this type of corrosion is to apply a faying surface of sealant or quality primer between metal and composite joints to prevent moisture buildup, thereby reducing galvanic potential.

How can we detect corrosion in faying surfaces seams and joints that resulted from the intrusion of moisture and other corrosive agents?

Similar to corrosion around fasteners, corrosion in faying surfaces, seams, and joints is caused by the intrusion of moisture and other corrosive agents. The effect of this type of corrosion is usually detectable by bulging of the skin surface. Magnesium Skins.

What are the ways to inspect the cables?

What is Done During Cable Testing?

1. Compare cable data with drawings and specifications.
2. Check uncovered parts of cable for material damage.
3. Check bolted electrical connections for high resistance with the use of a calibrated torque-wrench, low-resistance ohmmeter or thermographic survey.

How do you check for broken wire on a cable?

The easiest way to check for exposed strands of broken wire on a cable is to have one person move the cable through its length of travel while another person holds a cotton cloth gently around the wire looking for places that the cable snags the wire.

What should I look for when inspecting low voltage wire?

Look at the condition of the exposed cable jacket and insulation when performing a visual inspection on low voltage wire and cable. Inspect compression-applied connections by verifying that the connector is properly rated for the installed cable size and has the proper indentations.

How do you know if you have a fault in cables?

Many times, a fault in a cable can be seen well before it becomes an actual problem. A visual inspection of all the cables in your facility is a great way to find trouble before it causes you a downtime. We look for corrosion on the copper, cracks in the insulation, moisture on the cables and many other indicators of damage to the cables.

How often should control cables be inspected for broken wires?

At every annual or 100-hour inspection, all control cables must be inspected for broken wire strands.