This project addressed a new process approved by the FAA for certifying Printed Wiring Boards (PWBs) and Printed Wiring Assemblies (PWAs) to flammability regulations using a similarity analysis.
Researchers identified PWBs and PWAs that are used by multiple suppliers. They identified common PWB materials and conformal coating combinations used in 7E7 electronic assemblies.
Researchers then performed flammability tests on the PWBs and PWAs. Results were used to support certification of flammability requirements by similarity.
Using this new process, suppliers can establish flammability assurance for any PWB and conformal coating combination that is manufactured in compliance with the list of materials and dimensions defined in these tests.
