scope:

INTRODUCTION

Intent.¹ The intent of this procedure is to determine the ability of fiber optic components to withstand the effects of controlled amounts of ozone. Although intended primarily for the evaluation of parts such as interconnecting devices, the method may be applied to other components when applicable and when required by a Detail Specification.

Failure Modes. Potential failure modes for this test include, but are not limited to:

a. Loosening or breaking of parts,

b. Insert bonding failure,

c. Excessive swelling of resilient materials, or other degradation of elastomers,

d. Damage to interface seals.

Ozone Hazard. Ozone is a physiologically hazardous gas at elevated concentrations. Levels of acceptable industrial exposure have been established by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists, 6500 Glenway Ave., Building D-7, Cincinnati, Ohio 45211. Ozone has a distinctive odor which is initially discernible at low concentrations. It is likely to be present whenever voltages exist which are sufficient to cause partial or complete discharges in air or in other atmospheres containing oxygen. (It may also be formed in air by ultraviolet radiation, as a combustion product, etc.) When the odor of ozone is persistently present or when ozone generating conditions continue, temporary impairment of the sense of smell could occur. Thus the concentration of ozone in the atmosphere should be measured using commercially available monitoring devices. Appropriate means, such as installation of exhaust vents, should be taken to maintain ozone concentrations in working areas within acceptable levels.

For citizen health reasons, it should be noted that many large cities of the world become very concerned whenever ozone levels exceed 100 pphm (parts per hundred million).

¹This method is similar to Method 1007.1 of MIL-STD-1344A.