EN 2591-6315:2001

Overview

EN 2591-6315:2001 is a European aerospace standard published by CEN that defines test methods for evaluating the fluid resistance of optical connection elements used in aerospace applications. The standard specifically focuses on optical elements, including permanent optical connections and fibre optic couplers, and their ability to withstand exposure to various fluids and lubricants without degradation of performance.

Designed for use in conjunction with EN 2591-100, EN 2591-6315 ensures that optical connections maintain their integrity and functionality in harsh aerospace environments where exposure to fluids is common. This standard is essential for manufacturers and testers of aerospace optical components who need to guarantee reliability under fluid exposure.

Key Topics

• Scope and Application
  The standard applies to all optical connection elements within aerospace electrical and optical connection systems. It covers methods to test resistance against fluids and lubricants, ensuring compatibility and durability.

• Test Methodology
  EN 2591-6315 outlines a detailed procedure for fluid resistance testing:

  • Specimens are prepared following product standards and terminated with appropriate accessories.
  • Testing involves immersion of specimens into specified fluids.
  • Post-immersion, the optical connections must be engaged and disengaged without tools to confirm mechanical functionality.
  • Cleaning of optical faces is conducted per EN 2591-100 requirements before final assessment.

• Measurements and Criteria
  After fluid exposure, several tests assess the condition and performance of the optical elements:

  • Insertion Loss (per EN 2591-601) to measure optical signal degradation.
  • Visual Examination (per EN 2591-6101) to detect any discoloration or damage, with special attention that optical faces remain free of discoloration.
  • Mating and Unmating Forces (per EN 2591-408) to verify mechanical engagement ease.
  • Contact Retention (per EN 2591-409) to ensure insert stability.

• Normative References
  EN 2591-6315 works closely with other test method parts in the EN 2591 aerospace series to provide a comprehensive evaluation framework.

Applications

This standard is critical for aerospace manufacturers and testing laboratories involved in the development, certification, and quality assurance of optical connectors used in:

• Avionics systems relying on fibre optic communication.
• Aerospace electrical and optical connection systems requiring high reliability in fluid-rich environments, such as fuel, hydraulic fluids, and lubricants.
• Engineering and maintenance procedures to validate fluid resistance of optical elements in aircraft and spacecraft.
• Ensuring compliance with international aerospace quality and safety requirements for optical interconnects.

Related Standards

• EN 2591-100: Aerospace series – Test methods – Part 100: General
  Provides the general guidelines and preparatory procedures for testing electrical and optical connection elements.

• EN 2591-315: Fluid resistance
  Details the procedure for testing fluid resistance applicable to both electrical and optical elements.

• EN 2591-601: Optical elements – Insertion loss
  Defines how to measure optical signal attenuation after testing.

• EN 2591-6101: Optical elements – Visual examination
  Specifies visual inspection protocols for optical connectors to detect defects or discoloration.

• EN 2591-408: Mating and unmating forces
  Describes testing of force requirements for connector engagement and disengagement.

• EN 2591-409: Contact retention in insert
  Covers methods to verify mechanical retention of contacts within connector inserts.

Keywords: EN 2591-6315, aerospace optical connectors, fluid resistance testing, fibre optic couplers, aerospace standards, optical connection testing, insertion loss, optical element durability, CEN aerospace standards, fluid exposure, optical connector reliability.