Design and Certification of Lightning Ignition Source Protection of Civil Aircraft Fuel System

Abstract

A more generalized fuel system is proposed in the AC25.954-1, which includes the fuel tank structure and the internal pipes and cables with which it exists. Based on the reference FAA relevant documents and standards, this paper summarizes the verification requirements and methods of lightning ignition protection for fuel system, including establishment lightning zone and lightning environment, identification of lightning protection design features, potential failure mode analysis, safety analysis, coupon test, and establish airworthiness restrictions, etc.