Evaluation of Kapton pyrolysis, arc tracking, and arc propagation on the Space Station Freedom (SSF) solar array flexible current carrier (FCC)

The likelihood of Kapton pyrolysis, arc tracking, and propagation phenomena, and the magnitude of destruction conceivably inflicted on Space Station Freedom´s (SSF´s) flexible current carrier (FCC) for the photovoltaic array, is addressed. The geometric layout of the FCC, having a planar-type orientation as opposed to bundles, may reduce the probability of sustaining an arc. An experimental investigation has also been conducted to simulate conditions under which an arc can occur on the FCC, and the consequences of arc initiation