EN 2591-314:1997

Overview

EN 2591-314:1997 is a European standard published by CEN, focusing on aerospace series elements related to electrical and optical connections. This part of the standard defines a specific test method for assessing the sealing ability of connection elements when immersed in salt water under conditions of low air pressure. The test method ensures the reliability and durability of aerospace connectors exposed to harsh environmental conditions. This standard is intended for use alongside the general guidelines provided in EN 2591, enhancing the safety and performance of electrical and optical connection components in aerospace applications.

Key Topics

• Test Method for Sealing Ability
  The core of EN 2591-314:1997 is a test procedure verifying how effectively connection elements resist leakage or corrosion when submerged in salt water and subjected to low air pressure environments.

• Aerospace Electrical and Optical Connectors
  It covers both electrical and optical connection elements used in aerospace systems, ensuring high reliability in vital operational components.

• Environmental Simulation
  The method simulates realistic aerospace conditions, such as immersion in salt water (to mimic marine or humid environments) and exposure to low air pressure (as encountered at high altitudes or during flight).

• Complementary Usage with EN 2591
  This part is designed to be used together with EN 2591, providing additional testing rigor and aiding in comprehensive certification of aerospace connectors.

Applications

• Aerospace Industry
  Ensuring the sealing integrity of connectors used in aircraft and spacecraft, critical for maintaining electrical and optical system functionality under extreme environmental conditions.

• Connector Manufacturing and Quality Control
  Manufacturers use this standard to validate the performance of their connection elements, ensuring products meet aerospace quality requirements.

• Maintenance and Safety Compliance
  Aerospace operators can apply this test method during maintenance or inspection to confirm ongoing connector reliability and prevent failure induced by environmental exposure.

• Design and Development
  Engineers can adopt the guidelines during the development of new connectors or systems to certify that components will withstand immersion and low-pressure conditions during actual service.

Related Standards

• EN 2591 Series
  Provides overall specifications and test methods for aerospace electrical and optical connection elements, offering a comprehensive framework for designing and evaluating connectors.

• IEC 60512 Series
  International standards addressing electrical connector testing methods, which complement EN 2591-314 by covering broader connector performance requirements.

• MIL-DTL-38999
  A U.S. military specification widely used in aerospace applications, focusing on circular connectors and their environmental resistances, useful as a comparative reference.

• ISO 14685
  Related to general test methods for electrical connectors, supporting international harmonization with aerospace-specific standards.

By implementing EN 2591-314:1997 test methods, aerospace manufacturers and operators ensure optimal sealing performance, durability, and safety of electrical and optical connectors exposed to challenging low-pressure and saltwater environments. This reinforces the reliability of critical systems essential to aerospace missions and enhances compliance with international aerospace quality benchmarks.