SAE ARP lightning guidance material is a huge piece of the puzzle for radome design engineers.
These documents are meant to help designers comply with FAA regulations to protect against the catastrophic effects of lightning. Both the FAA and EASA require adequate protection to keep passengers and crew safe.
In this article, we’ll break down the SAE ARP documents and explain what you need to know.
Note: This guide to SAE documents was created as a helpful reference; we are not affiliated with the SAE and do not receive any commission on the sale of their documents.
SAE ARP 5414B: Aircraft Lightning Zone Guidance
The SAE ARP5414B – Aircraft Lightning Zone – was last revised in December of 2018.
This document shows the different aircraft lightning zones along with guidance in protecting them from strikes.
- Applicable To: Parts 23, 25, 27 and 29 aircraft.
- Current Revision? Yes
- Most Recent Revision Date: 12-05-2018
- Free to Download? No
Document Download: SAE ARP5414B document is found here.
Why Do You Need The SAE ARP 5414B Document?
Watch this video below for a brief explanation about SAE ARP 5414B and how it fits within the scope of a new radome design.
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Lightning Zones Can Be Tough to Understand
We’ve color coded our own diagrams to more clearly illustrate the different lightning zones, which can be tough to differentiate.
Lightning Zone Breakdown Video
For a more in-depth explanation of aircraft lightning zones, watch the short video below–we help break it down for you.
If you liked this video, check out our podcast on aerospace engineering.
SAE ARP 5412B – Aircraft Lightning Test and Related Waveforms
This document was last revised in 2013.
SAE ARP5412B explains how electrical waveforms are important in meeting FAA lightning protection standards. It should be used in conjunction with the other ARP documents.
The Full SAE ARP5412B document is found here.
- Applicable To: Lightning Testing Standards
- Current Revision? Yes
- Most Recent Revision Date: 1-11-2013
- Free to Download? No
Video: Overview of SAE ARP 5412B
Allen Hall, FAA designated engineering representative (DER) explains the basics of 5412B below.
Want help with your radome design? Give us a call.
SAE ARP 5416A – Guidance Material on Lightning Test Methods
The SAE ARP5416A sheds light on lightning testing methods, standards and practices. It also provides guidance on which items should and should not be tested.
- Applicable To: Lightning Testing Standards
- Current Revision? Yes
- Most Recent Revision Date: 1-07-2013
- Free to Download? No
Document Link: SAE ARP5416A is found here.
Video Overview of SAE ARP 5416A
Get a quick video overview of ARP 5416A in this video by Allen Hall.
The full document is found here.
Need Radome Design Guidance and Consulting?
FAA DER, Allen Hall, of Weather Guard Lightning Tech is here to help you finish your radome design.
Additional FAA and EASA Lightning Protection Resources
- FAA 25.581: How to Comply (detailed article with video presentation)
- Lightning Protection for Weather Nose Radomes
- Struck Podcast EP3: SAE Documents Explained [iTunes]
- Contact us if you need more design help