EN 4057-402:2014

Overview

EN 4057-402:2014 defines the standardized procedure to determine the life cycle of cable ties for harnesses under random vibration conditions for aerospace applications. It is intended to be used together with EN 4057-100 (general test methods) and referenced product specifications. The standard sets out the required apparatus, sequence of vibration and environmental cycling, and final inspection steps to assess long-term durability and suitability for use in aircraft harness assemblies.

Key Topics

• Test scope and purpose: Establishes a reproducible life-cycle test for cable ties used on harnesses subject to aircraft vibration and environmental stress.
• Apparatus: Requires a random-vibration-capable vibration system (conforming to EN 2591-403), a laboratory oven able to reach the maximum working temperature plus specified margin, a refrigerator to attain the minimum rated temperature, and a tensile tester per EN 4057-401.
• Vibration procedure: Specimens are mounted on a representative cable bundle/harness and subjected to the EN 2591-403 random vibration spectrum. Vibration is applied for defined periods in two mutually perpendicular axes, one parallel to the bundle axis.
• Temperature cycling: After vibration, specimens remain mounted and undergo hot and cold transfers with limited transfer times. The cycling sequence is repeated for the prescribed number of cycles to reveal degradation from thermal stress combined with mechanical fatigue.
• Final inspection and mechanical verification: Visual inspection using ×10 magnification, inspection of cable insulation beneath each tie after removal of the centre cable, and loop tensile strength testing in accordance with EN 4057-401.
• Acceptance: Performance must meet the requirements of EN 4056-001 (technical specification) and the applicable product standard for the cable tie under test.

Applications

This test method is directly applicable to:

• Aerospace harness engineers validating cable tie durability for flight hardware.
• Manufacturers qualifying cable tie designs and materials for use on wiring harnesses.
• Maintenance and procurement teams requiring objective test evidence of long-term performance against vibration and thermal cycling.

Practical value: the procedure reproduces combined mechanical and environmental stresses encountered in service, enabling selection of cable ties that maintain secure bundling, protect insulation, and retain mechanical strength over the expected product life-cycle.

Related Standards

• EN 4057-100 - Cable ties for harnesses: Test methods - General
• EN 4057-401 - Cable ties: Loop tensile strength test
• EN 4056-001 - Cable ties for harnesses: Technical specification
• EN 2591-403 - Sinusoidal and random vibration test methods
• EN 2266-007 / EN 2267-009 / EN 2267-010 - Relevant cable product standards

Keywords: life cycle, cable ties, harnesses, random vibration, temperature cycling, EN 4057-100, EN 4057-401, aerospace testing, loop tensile strength.