Aerospace wire and cable are frequently identified by color to designate system, purpose, etc. It is crucial that the insulation of a wire or cable is able to maintain its assigned color throughout normal operating conditions to ensure reliable identification.
The color retention test evaluates an insulation’s ability to maintain its color under elevated temperature exposure. The test sample is placed in an an oven at conditions set forth in the product specification. Upon removal, the sample will be thoroughly inspected for color conformance as is required by the product specification.