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RE: [PSUBS-MAILIST] Copper wiring.



Gene,
 
There are several types of wiring insulation that are smoke-free / Halogen-free & self extinguishing. You should avoid any kind off PVC wiring at all costs as "its burning insulation creates copious amounts of smoke, and the insulation can turn to hydrochloric acid when exposed to moisture." (http://www.aviationtoday.com/reports/wiring7.htm).
 
"Teflon is rated for continuous operation in temperatures from -60°C to 200°C and retains its exceptional toughness and Flexibility within this range. TFE Teflon is not degraded by chemicals which makes it ideal for use in harsh environments. Teflon is widely regarded as the ultimate high performance wire Insulation material for environments characterized by extreme thermal or chemical conditions." (http://www.alphawire.com/pages/175.cfm).
 
While teflon is a less likely to cause problems in a sub, there are still precautions to take as even though it has excellent properties, it releases a series of toxic fumes at different tempreatures which could be very hazardous in an enclosed compartment such as a submersible. I am not sure, but don't quote me on it, but I believe that Teflon is not approved to use in Pressure Vessels for Human Occupation (PVHO).
 
Some of the hazards of inhaling teflon-generated gases are at http://tuberose.com/Teflon.html
 
The best is to stick with smoke-free halogen-free wiring such as that used on aircraft.
 
On the safety side, a separate air supply for emergency breathing is advisable (required for ABS classed subs) for added safety.
 
I hope this helps,
 
Hugo

-----Original Message-----
From: owner-personal_submersibles@psubs.org [mailto:owner-personal_submersibles@psubs.org]On Behalf Of HUNTR2@aol.com
Sent: Thursday, May 27, 2004 3:34 AM
To: personal_submersibles@psubs.org
Subject: Re: [PSUBS-MAILIST] Copper wiring.

As far as wiring goes....  is there a wire insulation that does not give off toxic gasses if it happens to get too hot during a short circuit situation?  This might be an important safety issue to keep in mind.  The flexibility of the fine strand copperwire sounds good and makes sense otherwise. 
 
Gene Seus