Final answer:
Several factors must be considered when selecting wire size for aircraft installation, including mechanical strength, allowable power loss, ease of installation, resistance of the return path, permissible voltage drop, current carrying capability, and the type of load.
Step-by-step explanation:
When determining the wire size for an aircraft installation, several critical factors must be considered to ensure safety, efficiency, and reliability of the electrical system. These factors include:
- Mechanical strength: The wire must be strong enough to withstand the physical stresses it will encounter during operation.
- Allowable power loss: Minimizing power loss is essential to maintain the efficiency of the system.
- Ease of installation: The wire should be manageable and flexible enough to install in the aircraft without difficulty.
- Resistance of current return path through the aircraft structure: The entire circuit's resistance affects the performance, with the return path being a critical component.
- Permissible voltage drop: To ensure the proper functioning of equipment, the voltage drop across the wire must be within acceptable limits.
- Current carrying capability of the conductor: The wire must be capable of handling the expected current without overheating or degrading.
- Type of load (continuous or intermittent): Different types of loads affect the thermal and electrical properties of the wire over time.
These considerations are crucial for the safe and efficient operation of the aircraft's electrical system.