EN 3218-010:2006

Overview

EN 3218-010:2006 is a European standard developed by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) that defines the specification requirements for protective covers used with aerospace rectangular connectors. These connectors feature metallic shells and screw-locking mechanisms and conform specifically to standards EN 3218-006 and EN 3218-008. As part of the aerospace series for electrical connectors, this standard ensures that protective covers provide effective safeguarding of connector interfaces under demanding aerospace operational conditions.

The standard is essential for manufacturers, designers, and quality engineers involved in aerospace electrical systems, ensuring consistency in performance, durability, and compatibility across components. EN 3218-010:2006 supports the reliability and safety of aerospace electrical connections by specifying protective cover materials, dimensions, and technical characteristics aligned with the connectors they protect.

Key Topics

• Scope: Defines protective covers designed exclusively for rectangular connectors covered under EN 3218-006 (receptacles with non-removable solder contacts) and EN 3218-008 (receptacles with rear-removable crimp contacts).
• Materials: Covers must be made from metallic alloys matching the connector’s material type and finish to maintain compatibility and corrosion resistance.
• Design and Dimensions: Detailed dimensions and tolerances are provided, measured in millimeters, ensuring proper fitting of protective covers over connectors. Key size variants include Size 1 and Size 2 shells, each with specified width, height, and depth parameters.
• Marking and Identification: Protective covers carry markings consistent with EN 3218-001, including a designation system that codes cover type, size, finish, and contact arrangement for traceability and standardization.
• Normative References: This standard is closely linked with other EN 3218 parts (001, 002, 006, 008) and EN 2591-100 which governs testing methods relevant to aerospace electrical connectors and components.
• Technical Requirements: Incorporates screw-locking captive screws and interfacial seals matching the mating zones defined in EN 3218-001 to guarantee secure mechanical and environmental protection.

Applications

EN 3218-010:2006 protective covers are critical in aerospace and defense sectors requiring robust and reliable electrical interconnections. Typical applications include:

• Aircraft Wiring Systems: Protecting unmated connectors from contamination, moisture ingress, and mechanical damage during maintenance or transport.
• Avionics Modules: Ensuring connectors maintain integrity by preventing connector pins from environmental exposure and debris.
• Ground Support Equipment: Safeguarding connectors that need to remain clean and functional in aerospace assembly or testing environments.
• Spacecraft and Satellites: High-performance aerospace connectors protected by covers adhering to this standard help maintain longevity and operational reliability in harsh conditions.

By specifying performance and design parameters for these protective covers, this standard supports the longevity, safety, and interoperability of aerospace electrical systems globally.

Related Standards

• EN 3218-001: Technical specification for rectangular connectors with metallic shells and screw-locking, foundational for design and marking practices.
• EN 3218-002: Performance and contact arrangement specifications for connectors in this aerospace series.
• EN 3218-006: Product standard governing receptacles with non-removable size 22 solder contacts, essential companion to protective covers.
• EN 3218-008: Product standard for receptacles with rear-removable size 20 crimp contacts, defining connectors compatible with the protective covers in EN 3218-010.
• EN 2591-100: Aerospace series test methods focusing on electrical and optical connection elements, providing testing protocols applicable to connectors and protective covers.

Implementing EN 3218-010:2006 ensures aerospace connectors are protected according to harmonized European standards, promoting safety, compatibility, and high performance in aerospace electrical equipment.

Keywords: aerospace connectors, protective covers, EN 3218-010, rectangular connectors, metallic shells, screw-locking connectors, aerospace standards, connector protection, EN 3218-006, EN 3218-008, aerospace electrical systems.