Class 9 - Magnetized Material

There are specific regulations for any magnetized material that has a maximum magnetic field strength sufficient to cause a compass deflection of more than 2 degrees at a distance of 2.1 m from any point on the surface of the assembled package. That magnetic field strength is equal to 0.418 A/m. Magnets with relatively high magnetic field strength can interfere with the instruments onboard an aircraft.

When testing the magnetic field strength, the compass used must be sensitive enough to read a 2-degree variation, preferably in 1-degree increments or finer. The measurements must be taken in a location that is free from any other magnetic interference other than the Earth's magnetic field. The compass and the material being tested must be aligned in an east/west direction. Shielding may be used to reduce the package's magnetic strength.

Magnetic metals, such as iron, nickel, and cobalt used in automobiles, automotive parts, metal fencing, and piping, may affect aircraft compasses. Even if they do not meet the magnetic field strength specifications listed above, groups of these substances can have a cumulative magnetic field strength to be considered a hazard.

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