ARMING WIRE ASSEMBLIES

Figure 1-24.—Arming wire assemblies. general-purpose bombs currently being used aboard ships are required to be thermally protected. Thermally protected Mk 80 series bombs can be identified by the words THERMALLY PROTECTED in the identification legend, a bumpy exterior surface, and two yellow bands around the nose. ARMING WIRE ASSEMBLIES Arming wire assemblies (fig. 1-24) are used for arming procedures during ordnance evolutions. The primary function of arming wire assemblies is to maintain ordnance components in a safe condition until actual release of the bomb from the aircraft. Normally, the wires consist of one or two brass or steel metal strands attached to a swivel loop. Safety Fahnstock clips (fig. 1-24) or safety clips, MAU 166/182, are attached to the ends of the arming wires after installation. They prevent premature or accidental withdrawal of the arming wires from the component. NOTE: Safety clips are used vice Fahnstock clips unless otherwise specified. Normally, arming wire assemblies are shipped in spiral-wound fiber tubes, overpacked in a wooden box. Generally, the safety Fahnstock clips are packed in the tubes with the arming wires. The most commonly used arming wire assemblies are listed in table 1-3. Arming wire installation procedures are discussed in the TRAMAN where the use of arming wire assemblies is required. FIN ASSEMBLIES Fin assemblies, used with the Mk 80 (series) LDGP bombs, provide stability to the bomb. They cause the bomb to fall in a smooth, definite curve to the target, instead of tumbling through the air. The fin assemblies, except the MAU-91A/B, are shipped on metal pallets. Each individual fin is crated Table 1-3.—Arming Wire Data 1-27