EN 2349-601:2007

Overview

EN 2349-601:2007 is a European standard developed by CEN under the Aerospace series, specifying the requirements and test procedures for determining the compass safety distance of relays and contactors used in aerospace applications. This standard is essential for ensuring that electrical switching devices, such as relays and contactors, do not adversely affect magnetic compasses through electromagnetic interference. EN 2349-601:2007 must be used in conjunction with EN 2349-100, which covers the general requirements and test procedures for aerospace relays and contactors.

Key Topics

• Compass Safety Distance: Establishes test procedures for measuring the minimum distance at which a relay or contactor does not cause compass deviation greater than a specified limit, safeguarding the reliability of onboard navigation systems.
• Test Procedures: Details the process for wiring, mounting, and energizing the device under test, and for measuring compass needle deflection as per the criteria set out in ISO 7137.
• Mounting Method: Specifies that devices must be connected and installed according to EN 2349-100 requirements before testing begins.
• Test Criteria: The primary criterion is that at the tested distance, the compass needle must not deviate more than 1°, according to ISO 7137 specifications.
• Normative References: Relies on EN 2349-100 for general procedures and ISO 7137 for environmental and testing specifics of airborne equipment.

Applications

EN 2349-601:2007 is tailored for the aerospace industry, particularly in environments where accurate directional data from compasses is critical. Key applications include:

• Aircraft Electrical System Design: Used during the selection and qualification of relays and contactors to minimize electromagnetic interference with navigation instruments.
• Component Qualification: Provides testing methodology for manufacturers to certify products intended for use in aircraft, ensuring compliance with aerospace safety standards.
• Maintenance and Upgrades: Applied during component replacement or maintenance to verify that new or modified equipment maintains appropriate compass safety distances.
• System Integration: Aids system integrators and engineers in designing layouts that comply with electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements, especially near sensitive navigation equipment.

Related Standards

• EN 2349-100: Aerospace series - Requirements and test procedures for relays and contactors - Part 100: General requirements. This is a foundational document required to apply EN 2349-601:2007.
• ISO 7137:1995: Aircraft - Environmental conditions and test procedures for airborne equipment. Specifies environmental conditions and testing methods referenced in EN 2349-601 for compass deflection testing.
• EUROCAE/ED-14 and RTCA/DO-160: Industry-recognized publications endorsed as part of ISO 7137 for environmental and EMC testing in aerospace contexts.

Practical Value

EN 2349-601:2007 plays a vital role in maintaining the operational integrity of airborne navigation systems. By addressing electromagnetic compatibility between electrical switching devices and magnetic compasses, the standard helps guarantee flight safety and equipment reliability. Compliance with EN 2349-601 is essential for aerospace manufacturers, systems integrators, and maintenance organizations that prioritize flight safety, product certification, and regulatory compliance.

Keywords: compass safety distance, aerospace standard, EN 2349-601, relays, contactors, CEN, aircraft electrical equipment, electromagnetic compatibility, ISO 7137, navigation system safety.