Treo has long specialised in testing equipment and components in the aviation sector. Now, with new, advanced equipment, we are further enhancing EMC testing according to the Airbus standard ABD 0100.
For many years, we have been recognised as experts in the field of aviation testing. The devices and components used in aircraft are exposed to various hazards, such as lightning strikes, short circuits or crosstalk of high switching pulses on power lines (inductive coupling). The resulting voltage spikes can impair the function of sensitive components or, in the worst case, irreparably damage them.
Treo improves EMC tests according to ABD 0100
Components are equipped with avalanche diodes and varistors to protect them from voltage spikes. In our EMC laboratory, we test whether the semiconductor components can withstand high voltage surges. These tests are comparable to surge voltage tests in the industrial sector. One of these, for example, is IEC 61000-4-5 (test standard of the International Electrotechnical Commission), which we use to test industrial equipment.
In order to be even better positioned for EMC tests in the aviation sector, we have added new test equipment. With our new, state-of-the-art equipment, our engineers can test the ability of devices and components to withstand voltage spikes according to RTCA/DO-160, and are also able to comply with the specifications of the more comprehensive Airbus standard ABD 0100. This standard defines even more extensive tests for voltage spikes of different strengths and exceeds the requirements of RTCA/DO-160. With our new equipment, we can carry out all the required tests according to ABD 0100 with even greater precision.
Lightning strikes of up to 3200 amperes can be simulated in the test laboratory
To be able to test the different voltage spikes, we have a 270-kilogram coupling clamp in operation. This allows us to simulate indirect lightning strikes (waveform 4) with a voltage of up to 1600 V and a current strength of up to 3200 A, for example. We have also equipped the laboratory with a new, larger temperature test cabinet to perform conducted EMC tests at various ambient temperatures, as also required by ABD 0100. In daily flight operations, the temperatures can differ greatly. The inrush current and the start-up behaviour at ambient temperature can differ massively from a cold start at low minus temperatures, and operation at low voltage and high temperatures such as +55 degrees Celsius can stress the cooling systems of the equipment. Our experts check whether the proper functions are guaranteed even in extreme temperatures.
The new equipment allows us to test faster and better
Another advantage is that thanks to the new technology, our processes are even faster and better. The procedure is simple and works at the push of a button: in addition to the RTCA/DO-160 test, the component can also be tested according to ABD 0100 simply by changing the settings. With the new equipment, we can support manufacturers in the aviation industry even more comprehensively – all the way from development to qualification testing.
