Qualification Levels
Section 10: Environmental Qualification (DO-160)
Definition
The specific test severity parameters (e.g., temperature extremes, vibration amplitudes, voltage limits) associated with each environmental test category in DO-160. Qualification levels define the exact conditions under which the equipment must operate or survive, and they vary based on the equipment's installation zone and the aircraft type (fixed-wing, rotorcraft, etc.).
Where This Shows Up
Qualification levels are often more severe than the expected operational environment to provide design margin. Some test sections distinguish between operating conditions (where the equipment must function) and survival conditions (where the equipment must not be damaged but may not need to operate). The specific levels selected for qualification testing must envelope the worst-case conditions of the intended installation with appropriate margin.
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Primary Sources
Test section tables define the specific severity levels for each category of each environmental test.
Related Terms
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