Wire Lacing Guide

This guide provides instructions for wire lacing, a method of organizing and securing wire bundles using lacing cord. Wire lacing is a durable and space-efficient alternative to cable ties, commonly used in aerospace and aviation applications.

Materials Needed

• Lacing cord (nylon or waxed polyester)
• Scissors or a sharp knife
• Heatshrink tubing (optional, for securing ends)

General Guidelines

• Follow FAA AC 43.13-1B, Chapter 11 for wire lacing standards.
• Use a single loop or continuous lacing pattern, depending on the application.
• Avoid overtightening the lacing cord to prevent damage to the wires.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Wire Bundle

• Group wires logically based on their destination or function.
• Align the wires neatly and ensure there are no sharp bends or kinks.

2. Start the Lacing

• Begin at one end of the wire bundle.
• Tie a secure knot (e.g., a square knot) around the bundle to anchor the lacing cord.

3. Apply the Lacing Pattern

• For single loop lacing:
  • Wrap the cord around the bundle at regular intervals (e.g., every 25–50mm).
  • Tie a knot at each loop to secure it.
• For continuous lacing:
  • Wrap the cord in a spiral pattern along the length of the bundle.
  • Tie a knot at the end to secure the lacing.

4. Secure the Ends

• Trim any excess lacing cord.
• Optionally, apply heatshrink tubing over the knots for additional security.

5. Inspect the Lacing

• Ensure the lacing is tight enough to hold the wires securely but not so tight that it damages the insulation.
• Check for consistent spacing and neatness.

Tips

• Use contrasting lacing cord colors for easy identification of wire bundles.
• Avoid lacing wires that may need frequent reconfiguration; use cable ties instead.
• Document the lacing pattern and materials used for future reference.