EN 2591-405:1998

Overview

EN 2591-405:1998 - Aerospace series - Elements of electrical and optical connection - Test methods - Part 405: Axial load is a European test-method standard published by CEN. It defines a procedure for assessing the ability of electrical and optical connection elements (for example connectors, contacts and cable terminations) to withstand axial (pull) forces without mechanical or electrical damage. This part is intended to be used together with the general requirements in EN 2591 and applies to aerospace applications where connector integrity under axial stress is critical.

Key Topics and Requirements

• Purpose: Establishes a reproducible method to evaluate axial-load resistance of connection elements used in aerospace systems.
• Scope: Applies to both electrical and optical connection elements subject to axial pulling forces during installation, handling, service or failure scenarios.
• Performance criterion: Focus on avoiding mechanical breakage, loss of contact, or measurable electrical degradation after axial loading (the standard specifies assessment criteria rather than design values).
• Test methodology: Defines the general approach for applying axial force and observing resultant mechanical and electrical conditions - to be read in conjunction with EN 2591 for complementary procedures, test conditions and specimen preparation.
• Applicability: Intended for qualification, verification and acceptance testing of connector designs and assemblies used in aerospace environments.
• Reference classification: Falls under ICS 49.060 (Aerospace electric equipment and systems).

Applications

EN 2591-405:1998 is practical for:

• Aerospace manufacturers validating connector designs for aircraft, spacecraft and related systems.
• Component suppliers establishing product data for axial-load resistance and reliability.
• Test laboratories performing standardized mechanical and electrical verification of connectors and optical termini.
• Quality, reliability and certification engineers who need a documented test method for supplier acceptance, maintenance qualification, and design assurance.
• Maintenance and repair organizations assessing connector integrity after field incidents involving tensile loads.

Related Standards

• EN 2591 (general parts) - EN 2591-405 must be used together with the general EN 2591 series that covers broader test procedures and common requirements for electrical and optical connection elements.
• Other aerospace connector standards and industry test methods (refer to national adoptions and sector-specific guidance) may complement axial load testing for complete qualification.

This content helps engineers, test houses and procurement specialists find and apply EN 2591-405:1998 when assessing connector axial-load performance in aerospace systems. Keywords: EN 2591-405:1998, axial load test, aerospace connectors, electrical and optical connection, CEN test methods, connector qualification.