EN 2591-202:1996

Overview

EN 2591-202:1996 is a European standard developed by CEN as part of the aerospace series addressing electrical and optical connection elements. This specific part of the standard outlines the test methods for measuring contact resistance at rated current between mated electrical contacts and their terminations. It serves as a critical reference for ensuring reliable electrical performance in aerospace applications where connection integrity is paramount.

The standard must be applied in conjunction with the broader EN 2591 series to fully cover the requirements and testing procedures for electrical and optical connectors used in aerospace environments. By defining precise conditions and methods for contact resistance measurement, EN 2591-202 supports quality assurance and consistency in manufacturing and maintenance of aerospace electrical systems.

Key Topics

• Contact Resistance Measurement
  Procedures for determining the electrical resistance at the contact interface during the rated current flow, crucial for evaluating connector performance.

• Rated Current Conditions
  Testing at specified current levels that simulate real operational conditions to ensure contacts maintain low resistance and prevent failures.

• Sample Preparation and Setup
  Guidelines on preparing mated contacts and their terminations for accurate and reproducible resistance measurements.

• Test Equipment and Methodology
  Specifications for test instruments, including measuring devices and circuit configurations, to maintain standardization.

• Data Recording and Interpretation
  Instructions for documenting resistance values and assessing compliance with acceptable limits for aerospace electrical connectors.

Applications

EN 2591-202:1996 is primarily used in the aerospace industry, including manufacturers, testing laboratories, and maintenance teams responsible for:

• Aerospace Electrical Connectors
  Verifying the integrity and performance of connectors used in aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems under rated current conditions.

• Quality Control and Certification
  Supporting compliance verification during production and final inspection to meet aerospace reliability requirements.

• Maintenance and Troubleshooting
  Assisting in diagnosing connection issues in service by measuring contact resistance to detect wear, corrosion, or damage.

• Research and Development
  Facilitating the design and evaluation of new connector technologies by applying standardized test methods.

Related Standards

For comprehensive application, EN 2591-202 should be used alongside other relevant standards, including but not limited to:

• EN 2591 (series)
  The overarching standard series covering various elements and test methods for electrical and optical connections in aerospace equipment.

• IEC Standards for Connectors
  International standards that define connector performance and testing, complementing the regional focus of EN 2591.

• Material and Environmental Standards
  Related standards that address environmental conditions and material properties affecting contact resistance.

• Military and Aerospace Electrical Standards
  Other standards such as MIL-STD and aerospace-specific documents that detail connection requirements and testing procedures.

By adhering to EN 2591-202:1996, aerospace manufacturers and engineers ensure that electrical connectors maintain reliable contact performance under operational currents, reducing risks of failure and enhancing overall system safety. This standard is essential for anyone involved in the production, testing, or maintenance of aerospace electrical and optical connections.