Test Report

Exel Oy arranged a full-scale impact test on Exel Approach Light Masts on September 28 and 29, 1991 at Joensuu airport in Finland under supervision of Frangibility Aid Study Group set by ICAO. The main objectives were to evaluate the frangibility of Exel masts and to give guidance to the FASG in developing new Frangibility Standards for Airport Approach Lighting. The test set up consisting of a wing section of a typical lightweight commercial aircraft mounted on a vehicle travelling at the speed of 140 km/h at the time of impacting a 6 m tall mast at 4 m height is today referred to as "the standard test".

The tests were performed to six masts, all of them having a 15 kg weight at the top of the mast simulating the effect of a cross-bar with 3 approach lights. Three of the masts were fitted with electric cables and their cover tubes. Based on the test results, Exel recommend today the wiring to be done with connectors at the top and the bottom of the mast, and using leads only, not a rubber cable along the mast between these connectors