APPENDIX I GLOSSARY

AI-2 CONDUCTANCE—The ability of a material to conduct or carry an electric current. It is the reciprocal of the resistance of the material. CORONA—The discharge of electricity from a conductor with a high potential. CURRENT RATING—The safe current-carrying capacity of a wire or cable on a continuous basis. DIELECTRIC STRENGTH—The ability of an insulator to withstand a potential difference without breaking down. (Usually expressed in terms of voltage). DUCTILE—Easily drawn out-as to form filaments or wires. ELECTRICAL SYMBOLS—Graphic symbols used to illustrate the various electrical or electronic components of a circuit. ELECTROLYSIS—The process of changing the chemical composition of a material by passing an electric current through it. ELECTROSTATIC STRESS—The force exerted on an insulator by the voltage in a conductor. ENAMEL—Synthetic compound of cellulose acetate (wood pulp and magnesium). Used to insulate wire in meters, relays, and motor windings. EXTRUDED POLYTETRAFLUOROETHYLENE—A high-temperature insulation used extensively in aircraft and equipment installations. (Emits dangerous fumes when heated.) FEP Fluorinated Ethylene Propylene)—A synthetic type of insulation. FIBROUS BRAID—An outer covering used to protect the insulating material of a conductor. Commonly made from cotton, linen, silk, rayon, or fiberglass. FLUX—A material that removes oxides from surfaces to be joined by soldering or welding. GALVANOMETER—A meter used to measure small values of current by electromagnetic or electrodynamics means. HEAT-SHRINKABLE TUBING—A plastic tube that, when heated, shrinks to encapsulate, protect, or insulate connections, splices, terminations, and other configurations. HEAT SHUNT—A device (preferably a clip-on type) used to absorb heat and protect heat-sensitive components during soldering. INSULATION—Materials used to coat or wrap conductors to prevent current leakage. INSULATION RESISTANCE—The resistance offered by an insulating material to current leakage. ISOMETRIC DIAGRAM—A diagram showing the outline of a ship or aircraft or equipment, and the location of equipment and cable runs. JUNCTION BOX—A box with a cover for joining different runs of wire or cable and for providing space for the connection and branching of the enclosed conductors. LACING SHUTTLE—A device upon which lacing may be wound to prevent fouling the tape or cord and facilitate the lacing process. (Usually made from brass, aluminum, fiber, or plastic.)