81_FR_55512 81 FR 55351 - Special Conditions: The Boeing Company, Boeing Model 737-8 Airplane; Non-Rechargeable Lithium Battery Installations

81 FR 55351 - Special Conditions: The Boeing Company, Boeing Model 737-8 Airplane; Non-Rechargeable Lithium Battery Installations

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration

Federal Register Volume 81, Issue 161 (August 19, 2016)

Page Range55351-55353
FR Document2016-19856

These special conditions are issued for the Boeing Company (Boeing) Model 737-8 airplane. This airplane will have a novel or unusual design feature when compared to the state of technology envisioned in the airworthiness standards for transport-category airplanes. This design feature is associated with non-rechargeable lithium battery installations. The applicable airworthiness regulations do not contain adequate or appropriate safety standards for this design feature. These special conditions contain the additional safety standards that the Administrator considers necessary to establish a level of safety equivalent to that established by the existing airworthiness standards.

Federal Register, Volume 81 Issue 161 (Friday, August 19, 2016) 
[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 161 (Friday, August 19, 2016)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 55351-55353]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2016-19856]



========================================================================
Rules and Regulations
                                                Federal Register
________________________________________________________________________

This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains regulatory documents 
having general applicability and legal effect, most of which are keyed 
to and codified in the Code of Federal Regulations, which is published 
under 50 titles pursuant to 44 U.S.C. 1510.

The Code of Federal Regulations is sold by the Superintendent of Documents. 
Prices of new books are listed in the first FEDERAL REGISTER issue of each 
week.

========================================================================


Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 161 / Friday, August 19, 2016 / Rules 
and Regulations

[[Page 55351]]



DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 25

[Docket No. FAA-2015-5758; Special Conditions No. 25-632-SC]


Special Conditions: The Boeing Company, Boeing Model 737-8 
Airplane; Non-Rechargeable Lithium Battery Installations

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final special conditions.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: These special conditions are issued for the Boeing Company 
(Boeing) Model 737-8 airplane. This airplane will have a novel or 
unusual design feature when compared to the state of technology 
envisioned in the airworthiness standards for transport-category 
airplanes. This design feature is associated with non-rechargeable 
lithium battery installations. The applicable airworthiness regulations 
do not contain adequate or appropriate safety standards for this design 
feature. These special conditions contain the additional safety 
standards that the Administrator considers necessary to establish a 
level of safety equivalent to that established by the existing 
airworthiness standards.

DATES: Effective April 22, 2017.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Nazih Khaouly, Airplane and Flight 
Crew Interface Branch, ANM-111, Transport Airplane Directorate, 
Aircraft Certification Service, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, 
Washington, 98057-3356; telephone 425-227-2432; facsimile 425-227-1149.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Future Requests for Installation of Non-Rechargeable Lithium Batteries

    The FAA anticipates that non-rechargeable lithium batteries will be 
installed in other makes and models of airplanes. We have determined to 
require special conditions for all applications requesting non-
rechargeable lithium battery installations, except the installations 
excluded in the Applicability section, until the airworthiness 
requirements can be revised to address this issue. Applying special 
conditions to these installations across the range of all transport-
airplane makes and models ensures regulatory consistency among 
applicants.
    The FAA issued special conditions no. 25-612-SC to Gulfstream 
Aerospace Corporation for their GVI airplane. Those are the first 
special conditions the FAA issued for non-rechargeable lithium battery 
installations. We explained in that document our determination to make 
those special conditions effective one year after publication of those 
special conditions in the Federal Register, and our intention for other 
special conditions for other makes and models to be effective on this 
same date or 30 days after their publication, whichever is later.

Background

    On January 27, 2012, Boeing applied for an amendment to type 
certificate no. A16WE to include a new Model 737-8 airplane. The Model 
737-8 airplane is a twin-engine, transport-category airplane that is a 
derivative of the Model 737-800 airplane. The Model 737-8 has a maximum 
passenger capacity of 200 and a maximum takeoff weight of 181,200 lbs.

Type Certification Basis

    Under the provisions of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations (14 
CFR) 21.101, Boeing must show that the Model 737-8 airplane meets the 
applicable provisions of the regulations listed in type certificate no. 
A16WE or the applicable regulations in effect on the date of 
application for the change, except for earlier amendments as agreed 
upon by the FAA. The regulations listed in the type certificate are 
commonly referred to as the ``original type certification basis.'' The 
regulations listed in type certificate no. A16WE are 14 CFR part 25 
effective February 1, 1965 including Amendments 25-1 through 25-77 with 
exceptions listed in the type certificate. In addition, the 
certification basis includes other regulations, special conditions, and 
exemptions that are not relevant to these special conditions. Type 
certificate no. A16WE will be updated to include a complete description 
of the certification basis for this airplane model.
    If the Administrator finds that the applicable airworthiness 
regulations (i.e., 14 CFR part 25) do not contain adequate or 
appropriate safety standards for the Model 737-8 airplane because of a 
novel or unusual design feature, special conditions are prescribed 
under the provisions of Sec.  21.16.
    Special conditions are initially applicable to the airplane model 
for which they are issued. Should the type certificate for that model 
be amended later to include any other model that incorporates the same 
novel or unusual design feature, or should any other model already 
included on the same type certificate be modified to incorporate the 
same novel or unusual design feature, these special conditions would 
also apply to the other model under Sec.  21.101.
    In addition to the applicable airworthiness regulations and special 
conditions, the Model 737-8 airplane must comply with the fuel-vent and 
exhaust-emission requirements of 14 CFR part 34, and the noise-
certification requirements of 14 CFR part 36.
    The FAA issues special conditions, as defined in 14 CFR 11.19, in 
accordance with Sec.  11.38, and they become part of the type-
certification basis under Sec.  21.101.

Novel or Unusual Design Features

    The Boeing Model 737-8 airplane will incorporate non-rechargeable 
lithium batteries.
    A battery system consists of the battery and any protective, 
monitoring, and alerting circuitry or hardware inside or outside of the 
battery. It also includes vents (where necessary) and packaging. For 
the purpose of these special conditions, a ``battery'' and ``battery 
system'' are referred to as a battery.

Discussion

    The FAA derived the current regulations governing installation of 
batteries in transport-category airplanes from Civil Air Regulations 
(CAR) 4b.625(d) as part of the re-codification of CAR 4b that 
established 14 CFR part 25 in February 1965. We basically reworded the 
battery requirements, which are currently in Sec.  25.1353(b)(1) 
through (4), from the CAR requirements.

[[Page 55352]]

Non-rechargeable lithium batteries are novel and unusual with respect 
to the state of technology considered when these requirements were 
codified. These batteries introduce higher energy levels into airplane 
systems through new chemical compositions in various battery-cell sizes 
and construction. Interconnection of these cells in battery packs 
introduces failure modes that require unique design considerations, 
such as provisions for thermal management.
    Recent events involving rechargeable and non-rechargeable lithium 
batteries prompted the FAA to initiate a broad evaluation of these 
energy-storage technologies. In January 2013, two independent events 
involving rechargeable lithium-ion batteries demonstrated unanticipated 
failure modes. A National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) letter to 
the FAA, dated May 22, 2014, which is available at http://www.ntsb.gov, 
filename A-14-032-036.pdf, describes these events.
    On July 12, 2013, an event involving a non-rechargeable lithium 
battery in an emergency-locator-transmitter installation demonstrated 
unanticipated failure modes. The United Kingdom's Air Accidents 
Investigation Branch Bulletin S5/2013 describes this event.
    Some known uses of rechargeable and non-rechargeable lithium 
batteries on airplanes include:
     Flight deck and avionics systems such as displays, global 
positioning systems, cockpit voice recorders, flight data recorders, 
underwater locator beacons, navigation computers, integrated avionics 
computers, satellite network and communication systems, communication-
management units, and remote-monitor electronic line-replaceable units;
     Cabin safety, entertainment, and communications equipment, 
including emergency-locator transmitters, life rafts, escape slides, 
seatbelt air bags, cabin management systems, Ethernet switches, routers 
and media servers, wireless systems, internet and in-flight 
entertainment systems, satellite televisions, remotes, and handsets;
     Systems in cargo areas including door controls, sensors, 
video surveillance equipment, and security systems.
    Some known potential hazards and failure modes associated with non-
rechargeable lithium batteries are:
     Internal failures: In general, these batteries are 
significantly more susceptible to internal failures that can result in 
self-sustaining increases in temperature and pressure (i.e., thermal 
runaway) than their nickel-cadmium or lead-acid counterparts. The 
metallic lithium can ignite, resulting in a self-sustaining fire or 
explosion.
     Fast or imbalanced discharging: Fast discharging or an 
imbalanced discharge of one cell of a multi-cell battery may create an 
overheating condition that results in an uncontrollable venting 
condition, which in turn leads to a thermal event or an explosion.
     Flammability: Unlike nickel-cadmium and lead-acid 
batteries, lithium batteries use higher energy and current in an 
electrochemical system that can be configured to maximize energy 
storage of lithium. They also use liquid electrolytes that can be 
extremely flammable. The electrolyte, as well as the electrodes, can 
serve as a source of fuel for an external fire if the battery casing is 
breached.
    Special condition 1 requires that each individual cell within a 
non-rechargeable lithium battery be designed to maintain safe 
temperatures and pressures. Special condition 2 addresses these same 
issues but for the entire battery. Special condition 2 requires that 
the battery be designed to prevent propagation of a thermal event, such 
as self-sustained, uncontrolled increases in temperature or pressure 
from one cell to adjacent cells.
    Special conditions 1 and 2 are intended to ensure that the non-
rechargeable lithium battery and its cells are designed to eliminate 
the potential for uncontrolled failures. However, a certain number of 
failures will occur due to various factors beyond the control of the 
designer. Therefore, other special conditions are intended to protect 
the airplane and its occupants if failure occurs.
    Special conditions 3, 7, and 8 are self-explanatory, and the FAA 
does not provide further explanation for them at this time.
    Special condition 4 makes it clear that the flammable-fluid fire-
protection requirements of Sec.  25.863 apply to non-rechargeable 
lithium battery installations. Section 25.863 is applicable to areas of 
the airplane that could be exposed to flammable fluid leakage from 
airplane systems. Non-rechargeable lithium batteries contain 
electrolyte that is a flammable fluid.
    Special condition 5 requires each non-rechargeable lithium battery 
installation to not damage surrounding structure or adjacent systems, 
equipment, or electrical wiring from corrosive fluids or gases that may 
escape. Special condition 6 requires each non-rechargeable lithium 
battery installation to have provisions to prevent any hazardous effect 
on airplane structure or systems caused by the maximum amount of heat 
it can generate due to any failure of it or its individual cells. The 
means of meeting these special conditions may be the same, but they are 
independent requirements addressing different hazards. Special 
condition 5 addresses corrosive fluids and gases, whereas special 
condition 6 addresses heat.
    These special conditions will apply to all non-rechargeable lithium 
battery installations in lieu of Sec.  25.1353(b)(1) through (4) at 
Amendment 25-123. Sections 25.1353(b)(1) through (4) at Amendment 25-
123 will remain in effect for other battery installations.
    These special conditions contain the additional safety standards 
that the Administrator considers necessary to establish a level of 
safety equivalent to that established by the existing airworthiness 
standards.

Discussion of Comments

    Notice of proposed special conditions no. 25-16-02-SC, for the 
Boeing 737-8 airplane, was published in the Federal Register on 
February 11, 2016 [81 FR 7249]. We received two substantive comments.
    The Aerospace Industries Association (AIA) provided several 
comments that were identical to their comments for special conditions 
no. 25-612-SC (81 FR 23573), which we issued to Gulfstream Aerospace 
Corporation for non-rechargeable lithium battery installations on 
Gulfstream GVI airplanes. The FAA responded to each of these comments 
in that final special conditions document. We incorporated the same 
revisions into this Boeing 737-8 special conditions that we 
incorporated into the Gulfstream GVI special conditions as a result of 
AIA's comments.
    Boeing commented that they fully support AIA's comments.
    Boeing requested that the FAA provide adequate time before non-
rechargeable lithium battery special conditions become effective to 
support validation activities by foreign civil airworthiness 
authorities (FCAA) and to not adversely impact future airplane 
deliveries by all applicants. The FAA considered this same comment from 
Boeing for special conditions no. 25-612-SC and provided a detailed 
response in that document. We determined the effective date for these 
Boeing 737-8 special conditions based on Boeing's comment and other 
factors stated in special conditions no. 25-612-SC.
    Boeing commented that the FAA needs to clearly define the 
applicability of these special conditions. The FAA concurs. Boeing's 
comment is similar to

[[Page 55353]]

their comment on special conditions no. 25-612-SC. We provided a 
detailed response in special conditions no. 25-612-SC and have now 
clearly defined the applicability for these Boeing 737-8 special 
conditions. One aspect of Boeing's comment that we did not address in 
special conditions no. 25-612-SC is that some design changes may not 
change a lithium battery installation but affect it, which results in 
these special conditions being applicable. For example, adding a heat 
source next to a lithium battery can increase its possibility of 
entering into thermal runaway. Lithium battery installations affected 
by design changes must meet these special conditions. Some examples of 
changes that affect lithium battery installations are those that:
     Increase the temperatures or pressures in a battery,
     Increase the electrical load on a battery,
     Increase potential for imbalance between battery cells,
     Modify protective circuitry for a lithium battery,
     Increase the airplane level risk due to the location of an 
existing lithium battery. An example is installation of a new oxygen 
line next to an existing part that has a lithium battery. The airplane 
level risk may increase due to the potential hazard of a lithium 
battery fire in the proximity of oxygen.
    The FAA has determined that ``uncontrolled'' in special condition 2 
should be ``uncontrollable'' to more accurately describe the concern. 
This revision does not change the intended meaning of this special 
condition.
    Except as discussed above, the special conditions are adopted as 
proposed.

Applicability

    As discussed above, these special conditions are applicable to the 
Model 737-8 airplane. Should the applicant apply at a later date for a 
change to the type certificate to include another model incorporating 
the same novel or unusual design feature, or should any other model 
already included on the same type certificate be modified to 
incorporate the same novel or unusual design feature, these special 
conditions would apply to that model as well.
    These special conditions are only applicable to design changes 
applied for after the effective date of the special conditions. The 
existing airplane fleet and follow-on deliveries of airplanes with 
previously certified non-rechargeable lithium battery installations are 
not affected.
    These special conditions are not applicable to previously certified 
non-rechargeable lithium battery installations where the only change is 
either cosmetic or relocating the installation to improve the safety of 
the airplane and occupants. The FAA determined that this exclusion is 
in the public interest because the need to meet all of the special 
conditions might otherwise deter such design changes that involve 
relocating batteries. A cosmetic change is a change in appearance only, 
and does not change any function or safety characteristic of the 
battery installation.

Conclusion

    This action affects only certain novel or unusual design features 
on one model of airplane. It is not a rule of general applicability.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 25

    Aircraft, Aviation safety, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements.


0
The authority citation for these special conditions is as follows:

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701, 44702, 44704.

The Special Conditions

    Accordingly, the following special conditions are part of the type 
certification basis for the Boeing Model 737-8 airplane.

Non-Rechargeable Lithium Battery Installations

    In lieu of Sec.  25.1353(b)(1) through (b)(4) at Amendment 25-123, 
each non-rechargeable lithium battery installation must:
    1. Maintain safe cell temperatures and pressures under all 
foreseeable operating conditions to prevent fire and explosion.
    2. Prevent the occurrence of self-sustaining, uncontrollable 
increases in temperature or pressure.
    3. Not emit explosive or toxic gases, either in normal operation or 
as a result of its failure, that may accumulate in hazardous quantities 
within the airplane.
    4. Meet the requirements of Sec.  25.863.
    5. Not damage surrounding structure or adjacent systems, equipment, 
or electrical wiring from corrosive fluids or gases that may escape in 
such a way as to cause a major or more-severe failure condition.
    6. Have provisions to prevent any hazardous effect on airplane 
structure or systems caused by the maximum amount of heat it can 
generate due to any failure of it or its individual cells.
    7. Have a failure sensing and warning system to alert the 
flightcrew if its failure affects safe operation of the airplane.
    8. Have a means for the flightcrew or maintenance personnel to 
determine the battery charge state if the battery's function is 
required for safe operation of the airplane.

    Note: A battery system consists of the battery and any 
protective, monitoring, and alerting circuitry or hardware inside or 
outside of the battery. It also includes vents (where necessary) and 
packaging. For the purpose of these special conditions, a 
``battery'' and ``battery system'' are referred to as a battery.


    Issued in Renton, Washington, on August 12, 2016.
Michael Kaszycki,
Assistant Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft 
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2016-19856 Filed 8-18-16; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

55351 Rules and Regulations Federal Register Vol. 81, No. 161 Friday, August 19, 2016 This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER installed in other makes and models of exemptions that are not relevant to these contains regulatory documents having general airplanes. We have determined to special conditions. Type certificate no. applicability and legal effect, most of which require special conditions for all A16WE will be updated to include a are keyed to and codified in the Code of applications requesting non- complete description of the certification Federal Regulations, which is published under rechargeable lithium battery basis for this airplane model. 50 titles pursuant to 44 U.S.C. 1510. If the Administrator finds that the installations, except the installations The Code of Federal Regulations is sold by excluded in the Applicability section, applicable airworthiness regulations the Superintendent of Documents. Prices of until the airworthiness requirements (i.e., 14 CFR part 25) do not contain new books are listed in the first FEDERAL can be revised to address this issue. adequate or appropriate safety standards REGISTER issue of each week. Applying special conditions to these for the Model 737–8 airplane because of installations across the range of all a novel or unusual design feature, transport-airplane makes and models special conditions are prescribed under DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION ensures regulatory consistency among the provisions of § 21.16. applicants. Special conditions are initially Federal Aviation Administration The FAA issued special conditions applicable to the airplane model for no. 25–612–SC to Gulfstream Aerospace which they are issued. Should the type 14 CFR Part 25 Corporation for their GVI airplane. certificate for that model be amended [Docket No. FAA–2015–5758; Special Those are the first special conditions the later to include any other model that Conditions No. 25–632–SC] FAA issued for non-rechargeable incorporates the same novel or unusual lithium battery installations. We design feature, or should any other Special Conditions: The Boeing explained in that document our model already included on the same Company, Boeing Model 737–8 determination to make those special type certificate be modified to Airplane; Non-Rechargeable Lithium conditions effective one year after incorporate the same novel or unusual Battery Installations publication of those special conditions design feature, these special conditions in the Federal Register, and our would also apply to the other model AGENCY: Federal Aviation intention for other special conditions for under § 21.101. Administration (FAA), DOT. In addition to the applicable other makes and models to be effective ACTION: Final special conditions. airworthiness regulations and special on this same date or 30 days after their SUMMARY: These special conditions are publication, whichever is later. conditions, the Model 737–8 airplane issued for the Boeing Company (Boeing) must comply with the fuel-vent and Background exhaust-emission requirements of 14 Model 737–8 airplane. This airplane will have a novel or unusual design On January 27, 2012, Boeing applied CFR part 34, and the noise-certification feature when compared to the state of for an amendment to type certificate no. requirements of 14 CFR part 36. technology envisioned in the A16WE to include a new Model 737–8 The FAA issues special conditions, as airworthiness standards for transport- airplane. The Model 737–8 airplane is a defined in 14 CFR 11.19, in accordance category airplanes. This design feature twin-engine, transport-category airplane with § 11.38, and they become part of is associated with non-rechargeable that is a derivative of the Model 737– the type-certification basis under 800 airplane. The Model 737–8 has a § 21.101. lithium battery installations. The maximum passenger capacity of 200 and applicable airworthiness regulations do Novel or Unusual Design Features a maximum takeoff weight of 181,200 not contain adequate or appropriate The Boeing Model 737–8 airplane will lbs. safety standards for this design feature. incorporate non-rechargeable lithium These special conditions contain the Type Certification Basis batteries. additional safety standards that the Under the provisions of title 14, Code A battery system consists of the Administrator considers necessary to of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) 21.101, battery and any protective, monitoring, establish a level of safety equivalent to Boeing must show that the Model 737– and alerting circuitry or hardware inside that established by the existing 8 airplane meets the applicable or outside of the battery. It also includes airworthiness standards. provisions of the regulations listed in vents (where necessary) and packaging. DATES: Effective April 22, 2017. type certificate no. A16WE or the For the purpose of these special FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: applicable regulations in effect on the conditions, a ‘‘battery’’ and ‘‘battery Nazih Khaouly, Airplane and Flight date of application for the change, system’’ are referred to as a battery. Crew Interface Branch, ANM–111, except for earlier amendments as agreed Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft upon by the FAA. The regulations listed Discussion Certification Service, 1601 Lind Avenue in the type certificate are commonly The FAA derived the current SW., Renton, Washington, 98057–3356; referred to as the ‘‘original type regulations governing installation of telephone 425–227–2432; facsimile certification basis.’’ The regulations batteries in transport-category airplanes jstallworth on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with RULES 425–227–1149. listed in type certificate no. A16WE are from Civil Air Regulations (CAR) SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 14 CFR part 25 effective February 1, 4b.625(d) as part of the re-codification 1965 including Amendments 25–1 of CAR 4b that established 14 CFR part Future Requests for Installation of Non- through 25–77 with exceptions listed in 25 in February 1965. We basically Rechargeable Lithium Batteries the type certificate. In addition, the reworded the battery requirements, The FAA anticipates that non- certification basis includes other which are currently in § 25.1353(b)(1) rechargeable lithium batteries will be regulations, special conditions, and through (4), from the CAR requirements. VerDate Sep<11>2014 14:10 Aug 18, 2016 Jkt 238001 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 E:\FR\FM\19AUR1.SGM 19AUR1

55352 Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 161 / Friday, August 19, 2016 / Rules and Regulations Non-rechargeable lithium batteries are lithium can ignite, resulting in a self- the maximum amount of heat it can novel and unusual with respect to the sustaining fire or explosion. generate due to any failure of it or its state of technology considered when • Fast or imbalanced discharging: individual cells. The means of meeting these requirements were codified. These Fast discharging or an imbalanced these special conditions may be the batteries introduce higher energy levels discharge of one cell of a multi-cell same, but they are independent into airplane systems through new battery may create an overheating requirements addressing different chemical compositions in various condition that results in an hazards. Special condition 5 addresses battery-cell sizes and construction. uncontrollable venting condition, which corrosive fluids and gases, whereas Interconnection of these cells in battery in turn leads to a thermal event or an special condition 6 addresses heat. packs introduces failure modes that explosion. These special conditions will apply to require unique design considerations, • Flammability: Unlike nickel- all non-rechargeable lithium battery such as provisions for thermal cadmium and lead-acid batteries, installations in lieu of § 25.1353(b)(1) management. lithium batteries use higher energy and through (4) at Amendment 25–123. Recent events involving rechargeable current in an electrochemical system Sections 25.1353(b)(1) through (4) at and non-rechargeable lithium batteries that can be configured to maximize Amendment 25–123 will remain in prompted the FAA to initiate a broad energy storage of lithium. They also use effect for other battery installations. evaluation of these energy-storage liquid electrolytes that can be extremely These special conditions contain the technologies. In January 2013, two flammable. The electrolyte, as well as additional safety standards that the independent events involving the electrodes, can serve as a source of Administrator considers necessary to rechargeable lithium-ion batteries fuel for an external fire if the battery establish a level of safety equivalent to demonstrated unanticipated failure casing is breached. that established by the existing modes. A National Transportation Special condition 1 requires that each airworthiness standards. Safety Board (NTSB) letter to the FAA, individual cell within a non- rechargeable lithium battery be designed Discussion of Comments dated May 22, 2014, which is available at http://www.ntsb.gov, filename A–14– to maintain safe temperatures and Notice of proposed special conditions 032–036.pdf, describes these events. pressures. Special condition 2 addresses no. 25–16–02–SC, for the Boeing 737–8 On July 12, 2013, an event involving these same issues but for the entire airplane, was published in the Federal a non-rechargeable lithium battery in an battery. Special condition 2 requires Register on February 11, 2016 [81 FR emergency-locator-transmitter that the battery be designed to prevent 7249]. We received two substantive installation demonstrated unanticipated propagation of a thermal event, such as comments. failure modes. The United Kingdom’s self-sustained, uncontrolled increases in The Aerospace Industries Association Air Accidents Investigation Branch temperature or pressure from one cell to (AIA) provided several comments that Bulletin S5/2013 describes this event. adjacent cells. were identical to their comments for Some known uses of rechargeable and Special conditions 1 and 2 are special conditions no. 25–612–SC (81 non-rechargeable lithium batteries on intended to ensure that the non- FR 23573), which we issued to airplanes include: rechargeable lithium battery and its Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation for • Flight deck and avionics systems cells are designed to eliminate the non-rechargeable lithium battery such as displays, global positioning potential for uncontrolled failures. installations on Gulfstream GVI systems, cockpit voice recorders, flight However, a certain number of failures airplanes. The FAA responded to each data recorders, underwater locator will occur due to various factors beyond of these comments in that final special beacons, navigation computers, the control of the designer. Therefore, conditions document. We incorporated integrated avionics computers, satellite other special conditions are intended to the same revisions into this Boeing 737– network and communication systems, protect the airplane and its occupants if 8 special conditions that we communication-management units, and failure occurs. incorporated into the Gulfstream GVI remote-monitor electronic line- Special conditions 3, 7, and 8 are self- special conditions as a result of AIA’s replaceable units; explanatory, and the FAA does not comments. • Cabin safety, entertainment, and provide further explanation for them at Boeing commented that they fully communications equipment, including this time. support AIA’s comments. emergency-locator transmitters, life Special condition 4 makes it clear that Boeing requested that the FAA rafts, escape slides, seatbelt air bags, the flammable-fluid fire-protection provide adequate time before non- cabin management systems, Ethernet requirements of § 25.863 apply to non- rechargeable lithium battery special switches, routers and media servers, rechargeable lithium battery conditions become effective to support wireless systems, internet and in-flight installations. Section 25.863 is validation activities by foreign civil entertainment systems, satellite applicable to areas of the airplane that airworthiness authorities (FCAA) and to televisions, remotes, and handsets; could be exposed to flammable fluid not adversely impact future airplane • Systems in cargo areas including leakage from airplane systems. Non- deliveries by all applicants. The FAA door controls, sensors, video rechargeable lithium batteries contain considered this same comment from surveillance equipment, and security electrolyte that is a flammable fluid. Boeing for special conditions no. 25– systems. Special condition 5 requires each 612–SC and provided a detailed Some known potential hazards and non-rechargeable lithium battery response in that document. We failure modes associated with non- installation to not damage surrounding determined the effective date for these rechargeable lithium batteries are: structure or adjacent systems, Boeing 737–8 special conditions based jstallworth on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with RULES • Internal failures: In general, these equipment, or electrical wiring from on Boeing’s comment and other factors batteries are significantly more corrosive fluids or gases that may stated in special conditions no. 25–612– susceptible to internal failures that can escape. Special condition 6 requires SC. result in self-sustaining increases in each non-rechargeable lithium battery Boeing commented that the FAA temperature and pressure (i.e., thermal installation to have provisions to needs to clearly define the applicability runaway) than their nickel-cadmium or prevent any hazardous effect on of these special conditions. The FAA lead-acid counterparts. The metallic airplane structure or systems caused by concurs. Boeing’s comment is similar to VerDate Sep<11>2014 14:10 Aug 18, 2016 Jkt 238001 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 E:\FR\FM\19AUR1.SGM 19AUR1

Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 161 / Friday, August 19, 2016 / Rules and Regulations 55353 their comment on special conditions no. rechargeable lithium battery 8. Have a means for the flightcrew or 25–612–SC. We provided a detailed installations where the only change is maintenance personnel to determine the response in special conditions no. 25– either cosmetic or relocating the battery charge state if the battery’s 612–SC and have now clearly defined installation to improve the safety of the function is required for safe operation of the applicability for these Boeing 737– airplane and occupants. The FAA the airplane. 8 special conditions. One aspect of determined that this exclusion is in the Note: A battery system consists of the Boeing’s comment that we did not public interest because the need to meet battery and any protective, monitoring, and address in special conditions no. 25– all of the special conditions might alerting circuitry or hardware inside or 612–SC is that some design changes otherwise deter such design changes outside of the battery. It also includes vents may not change a lithium battery that involve relocating batteries. A (where necessary) and packaging. For the installation but affect it, which results cosmetic change is a change in purpose of these special conditions, a in these special conditions being appearance only, and does not change ‘‘battery’’ and ‘‘battery system’’ are referred to applicable. For example, adding a heat any function or safety characteristic of as a battery. source next to a lithium battery can the battery installation. Issued in Renton, Washington, on August increase its possibility of entering into 12, 2016. Conclusion thermal runaway. Lithium battery Michael Kaszycki, installations affected by design changes This action affects only certain novel Assistant Manager, Transport Airplane must meet these special conditions. or unusual design features on one model Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. Some examples of changes that affect of airplane. It is not a rule of general [FR Doc. 2016–19856 Filed 8–18–16; 8:45 am] lithium battery installations are those applicability. BILLING CODE 4910–13–P that: List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 25 • Increase the temperatures or pressures in a battery, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION • Increase the electrical load on a battery, ■ The authority citation for these Federal Aviation Administration • Increase potential for imbalance special conditions is as follows: between battery cells, Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701, 14 CFR Part 39 • Modify protective circuitry for a 44702, 44704. lithium battery, [Docket No. FAA–2015–3986; Directorate • Increase the airplane level risk due The Special Conditions Identifier 2015–NM–057–AD; Amendment to the location of an existing lithium 39–18613; AD 2016–16–15] Accordingly, the following special battery. An example is installation of a conditions are part of the type RIN 2120–AA64 new oxygen line next to an existing part certification basis for the Boeing Model that has a lithium battery. The airplane 737–8 airplane. Airworthiness Directives; Bombardier, level risk may increase due to the Inc. Airplanes potential hazard of a lithium battery fire Non-Rechargeable Lithium Battery in the proximity of oxygen. Installations AGENCY: Federal Aviation The FAA has determined that Administration (FAA), DOT. In lieu of § 25.1353(b)(1) through ‘‘uncontrolled’’ in special condition 2 (b)(4) at Amendment 25–123, each non- ACTION: Final rule. should be ‘‘uncontrollable’’ to more rechargeable lithium battery installation accurately describe the concern. This SUMMARY: We are adopting a new must: airworthiness directive (AD) for certain revision does not change the intended 1. Maintain safe cell temperatures and meaning of this special condition. Bombardier, Inc. Model DHC–8–400, pressures under all foreseeable Except as discussed above, the special –401, and –402 airplanes. This AD was operating conditions to prevent fire and conditions are adopted as proposed. prompted by reports of chafing damage explosion. 2. Prevent the occurrence of self- due to insufficient clearance on the Applicability main landing gear (MLG) stabilizer sustaining, uncontrollable increases in As discussed above, these special temperature or pressure. brace, the nacelle A-frame structure, and conditions are applicable to the Model 3. Not emit explosive or toxic gases, the adjacent electrical wiring harnesses. 737–8 airplane. Should the applicant either in normal operation or as a result An insufficient fillet radius may also apply at a later date for a change to the of its failure, that may accumulate in exist on certain airplanes. This AD type certificate to include another hazardous quantities within the requires, depending on airplane model incorporating the same novel or airplane. configuration, an inspection of the unusual design feature, or should any 4. Meet the requirements of § 25.863. nacelle A-frame structure for other model already included on the 5. Not damage surrounding structure insufficient fillet radius; an inspection same type certificate be modified to or adjacent systems, equipment, or for cracking of affected structure, and incorporate the same novel or unusual electrical wiring from corrosive fluids or rework or repair if necessary, and design feature, these special conditions gases that may escape in such a way as rework of the nacelle A-frame structure; would apply to that model as well. to cause a major or more-severe failure repetitive inspections of the nacelle A- These special conditions are only condition. frame structure and the MLG stabilizer applicable to design changes applied for 6. Have provisions to prevent any brace for insufficient clearance and after the effective date of the special hazardous effect on airplane structure or damage, and repair if necessary, and jstallworth on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with RULES conditions. The existing airplane fleet systems caused by the maximum rework of the nacelle A-frame structure, and follow-on deliveries of airplanes amount of heat it can generate due to which would terminate the repetitive with previously certified non- any failure of it or its individual cells. inspections; installation of new stop rechargeable lithium battery 7. Have a failure sensing and warning brackets and a shim on each MLG installations are not affected. system to alert the flightcrew if its stabilizer brace assembly; and rework of These special conditions are not failure affects safe operation of the the electrical wiring harnesses in the applicable to previously certified non- airplane. nacelle area. We are issuing this AD to VerDate Sep<11>2014 14:10 Aug 18, 2016 Jkt 238001 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 E:\FR\FM\19AUR1.SGM 19AUR1


Document Created: 2016-08-19 01:35:34
Document Modified: 2016-08-19 01:35:34
CategoryRegulatory Information
CollectionFederal Register
sudoc ClassAE 2.7:
GS 4.107:
AE 2.106:
PublisherOffice of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration
SectionRules and Regulations
ActionFinal special conditions.
DatesEffective April 22, 2017.
ContactNazih Khaouly, Airplane and Flight Crew Interface Branch, ANM-111, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington, 98057-3356; telephone 425-227-2432; facsimile 425-227-1149.
FR Citation81 FR 55351 
CFR AssociatedAircraft; Aviation Safety and Reporting and Recordkeeping Requirements
2025 Federal Register | Disclaimer | Privacy Policy
USC | CFR | eCFR