SAE AIR5558A PDF

SAE AIR5558A PDF

The purpose of this report is to provide information on the results of ultraviolet (UV) laser marking and mark contrast measurement of a wide range of aerospace wire and cable constructions, the specifications for most of which do not state specific requirements for laser markability. The contents of this document are for information and guidance only. It is not intended that it be used as the basis for marking process specifications or standards, which are covered by AS5649.

For the purpose of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.

CABLE: Electrical cable, unless noted as a fiber optic cable. Two or more insulated conductors, solid or stranded, contained in a common covering, or two or more insulated conductors twisted or molded together without common covering, or one insulated conductor with a metallic covering shield or outer conductor.

CONTRAST: A measurement relating to the difference in luminance of the mark and its associated background according to a precise formula.

EXCIMER: A gas laser deriving its name from the term “excited dimer.” The laser is energized by means of an electrical discharge in a specialized mixture of rare gases and halogens. Excimer lasers are available operating at a number of discrete wavelengths throughout the UV, the most common of which are 193 nm, 248 nm, 308 nm, and 351 nm. The wavelength is dependant only on the gas mix used; 308 nm is commonly used for UV laser wire marking.

FLUENCE: The energy density, measured in joules per square centimeter (J/cm-2) of a single pulse of the laser beam, which for the purposes of this standard is at the surface of the wire insulation or cable jacket.

INFRARED (IR): Electromagnetic radiation in the wavelength range from approximately 700 nm to in excess of 10000 nm.

INSULATION: For the purposes of this standard, the outer polymer covering of an electrical wire or multi-conductor cable or fiber optic cable.