SIST EN 2591-306:2001

Overview

EN 2591-306:1998 - "Aerospace series - Elements of electrical and optical connection - Test methods - Part 306: Mould growth" is a CEN standard that specifies a method to assess the resistance of electrical and optical connector elements or their constituent materials to mould growth. It is intended to be used together with the broader EN 2591 series. This test method helps determine whether connector components and materials are suitable for use in aerospace environments where biological contamination can affect performance and reliability.

Key Topics

• Scope of assessment: Defines that the method applies to elements of electrical and optical connection and to samples of their component materials for the evaluation of mould growth resistance.
• Test purpose: Describes the objective to assess susceptibility of connector parts and materials to fungal colonization under controlled conditions.
• Sample handling and preparation: Covers requirements for representative samples and preparation procedures appropriate for connector materials (general, not specific numerical conditions).
• Exposure and evaluation: Addresses exposure of samples to mould-promoting conditions and subsequent assessment techniques (visual examination and documented scoring or reporting of growth).
• Reporting and interpretation: Specifies documentation requirements so results can be compared or used alongside other EN 2591 test data.
• Use with EN 2591: Emphasises that Part 306 is complementary to the main EN 2591 standard and should be applied in conjunction with other relevant parts of the aerospace series.

Keywords: EN 2591-306, mould growth test, aerospace connectors, electrical and optical connection, test methods, mould resistance, connector materials.

Applications

• Design validation: Engineers and material specialists use EN 2591-306 to verify that connector designs and materials resist mould growth before qualification for aerospace installations.
• Procurement and specification: Procurement teams and OEMs reference the standard to include mould resistance requirements in supplier specifications and contractual tests.
• Qualification and certification: Test laboratories and certification bodies use the method as part of environmental qualification and reliability assessments for aerospace electrical and optical components.
• Maintenance and sustainment: Maintenance organizations may use test results to inform inspection intervals and remediation decisions on in-service components exposed to humid or biologically active environments.

Related Standards

• EN 2591 (series) - overarching standard for elements of electrical and optical connection; EN 2591-306 should be used together with the EN 2591 series.
• Other CEN aerospace standards and national adoptions of EN 2591 series may provide complementary environmental and mechanical test methods relevant to connector qualification.

This standard is especially relevant to aerospace manufacturers, connector suppliers, test laboratories, certification authorities, and maintenance engineers concerned with mould resistance and long-term reliability of electrical and optical connections.