Wire Design and Routing

Tutorial on how to safely and efficiently manage wires.

IREC Requirements

IREC has some requirements for safety critical wires. This is defined as wiring associated with drogue (or other drag device) deployment, main parachute deployment, and any air-start rocket motors. These requirements are summarized as follows:

  • “Individual wires should be bundled together to make a harness”

    • Twisted together

    • Zip Ties every 5 cm

    • Mesh sleeving ( should allow for inspection of wiring inside)

  • Harness supported by plastic P-clamps

  • All connected items by the harness should be rigidly fixed and cannot move

  • Allow some slack in the wire

General Wiring Suggestions

Wires should allow for some slack but avoid excess length when possible. Dedicated wire support can be mounted on the walls so wires can be run-through them conserving space. Wires can also be labeled so that they can easily be distinguished in a timely manner.

IREC wiring requirements and suggestions can be referenced starting at page 23 here:

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