FED-STD-228A
Method 5131.1
18 APRIL 2014
DRIP, FIBROUS COVERING
1. SCOPE
1.1 This method is intended for use in determining the softening of the finish in the fibrous covering of
insulated wire or cable and its tendency to soften sufficiently to run from the cable. The temperature is
higher than that used for the melt test.
2. SPECIMEN
2.1 The specimen should be a 6-inch length of the inspection unit from which any covering over the
fibrous covering has been removed.
3. APPARATUS
3.1 The apparatus shall be as follows:
3.1.1 A circulating air oven capable of maintaining the specimen at the required temperature within ±1°C
(2°F).
3.1.2 Means shall be provided for suspending the specimen at an angle of 45°.
3.1.3 A sheet of paper or container for collecting any drippings from the specimen.
4. PROCEDURE
4.1 Unless otherwise specified in the detail specification, the specimen shall be subjected to a
temperature of 82° ± 1°C (180° ± 2°F).
4.2 All covering and the insulation shall be removed from the conductor of the specimen for a distance of
¾ inch from each end. The specimen shall be suspended by the bare ends of the conductor at an angle
of 45° in the oven which has been pre-heated to the required temperature. A sheet of paper or container
shall be placed in the bottom of the oven in a position to collect any dripping from the specimen. The
specimen shall be heated for the required time and at the required temperature. At the end of the
exposure period the specimen shall be examined for dripping, formation of globules on the lower side, or
bubbles upon the surface.
5. RESULTS
5.1 Unless otherwise specified in the detail specification, two specimens from each inspection unit shall
be tested.
5.2 The resistance to dripping of the fibrous covering of the inspection unit shall be the results obtained
from the specimens tested.
5.3 Any dripping, formation of globules on the lower side, or bubbles upon the surface of the inspection
unit shall be recorded.
5.4 The temperature and time of exposure shall be recorded.
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