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What is Aviation Cable for Airbus A320 and Where is it Used?

The Airbus A320 family, a single-aisle, twin-engine jetliner, is the world’s best-selling commercial aircraft series. Since its introduction in 1988, it has relied on a vast internal wiring and cable network to connect its avionics, flight controls, engines, and cabin systems. This network is the aircraft’s central nervous system, and the cables within it are known as aviation cables for Airbus A320.

This article explains what these cables are, their key types, and their critical locations throughout the A320.


What is Aviation Cable for Airbus A320?

Aviation cable for Airbus A320 refers to the specialized wires and cables designed and certified for installation on A320 family aircraft. They are engineered to meet stringent requirements for weight, size, temperature, and electromagnetic compatibility, far exceeding those of industrial cables.

Key Characteristics:

  • High Reliability:Built for a service life of 20-30+ years with minimal failure risk.
  • Harsh Environment Tolerance:Withstands temperatures from -65°C to over 200°C, high vibration, and constant flexing.
  • Lightweight & Compact:Designed to minimize aircraft weight, using high-performance conductors and insulation.
  • EMI Shielding:Equipped with shielding to prevent signal interference between critical systems.
  • Flame Resistance & Low Smoke:Complies with standards like FAR 25.853 to ensure safety during a fire.

Main Types of A320 Aviation Cables

A320 cables are categorized by their function and construction. Here are the primary types:

CategoryKey ExamplesPrimary Function
Power CablesAluminum Power Feeder Cables(e.g., 180°C)
High-Temperature Copper Wires(e.g., MIL-W-7139, 250°C)
Distribute electrical power from generators and batteries to systems and equipment.
Signal & Control CablesEN / MIL Standard Wires(e.g., E0261, E0270)
Thermocouple Extension Wires
Carry low-current signals for sensors, switches, and control systems, ensuring accurate data transmission.
Data Bus & Communication CablesARINC 429 Data Bus Cables
Coaxial Cables
Fiber Optic Cables
Transmit digital data between avionics units (ARINC 429), RF signals (coax), and high-bandwidth data (fiber).
Audio & Intercom CablesShielded audio cablesConnect crew intercom, passenger address, and entertainment systems, with shielding to block interference.
Fire-Resistant Safety CablesCables per MIL-W-25038Provide critical control and indication during fires, maintaining operation for a minimum duration (e.g., 5 minutes at 1093°C).
Flight Control System (EFCS) CablesWires to actuators, pink-tagged per E0248Connect the fly-by-wire computers to control surfaces (ailerons, elevators, rudder). Often have redundant shielding and special routing.

Where Are These Cables Located in the A320?

Cables are routed throughout the entire aircraft, organized into harnesses that connect systems across compartments. Key locations include:

  • Cockpit & Avionics Bay:Connects flight instruments, displays, autopilot, and radios. Houses critical EFCS data and signal cables, often in shielded bundles with pink identification tags.
  • Wings & Flight Control Surfaces:Routes cables from the cockpit to ailerons, flaps, and spoilers. These areas experience high vibration and temperature swings, requiring high-flex cables. The rudder retains a mechanical cable backup.
  • Engines & APU:Carries high-current power and high-temperature control/monitoring signals. Uses specialized 200-250°C rated cables like MIL-W-7139 and E0261.
  • Fuselage & Landing Gear:Distributes power and signals for lighting, environmental controls, doors, brakes, and sensors. These areas demand flame-resistant wiring and robust mechanical protection.
  • Empennage (Tail Section):Connects systems in the vertical and horizontal stabilizers. Houses EFCS wiring and data cables for trim and control surfaces.
  • Cabin & Cargo Areas:Supports in-flight entertainment, lighting, and environmental controls. Uses a mix of power, data, and audio cables, often with lightweight, flexible constructions.

Sourcing & Selection Considerations

Selecting the right aviation cable for Airbus A320 applications requires careful attention to detail.

  • OEM vs. Aftermarket:New aircraft use OEM-specified parts. In MRO, approved PMA (Parts Manufacturer Approval) or FAA/EASA-approved equivalents can be used if they meet the same specifications.
  • Compliance & Traceability:Cables must meet standards like EN, MIL-SPEC, or SAE AS, and come with full certification and lot traceability for airworthiness.
  • Correct Part Number:Using the precise part number (e.g., E0261, MIL-W-7139) is crucial, as small differences can impact performance and regulatory compliance.
  • Supplier Expertise:Choose suppliers with proven experience in A320 projects, capable of providing test reports and technical support.

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