scope:

Abstract:

A 500-volt insulation/isolation resistance test intended for the propellant line heaters and tank heaters was mistakenly applied to all electrical connections in the Space Infrared Telescope Facility (SIRTF) propulsion subsystem, caused the failure of 6 pressure transducers.

Test procedures should protect flight hardware by specifying all voltage limitations. Before approving the test procedures, the cognizant subsystem engineer must perform a careful, detailed review both for functionality and to preclude injury to personnel or damage to the hardware.