EN 4056-001:2015

Overview

EN 4056-001:2015 is a European Standard developed by the Aerospace and Defence Industries Association of Europe (ASD-STAN) under the aegis of CEN. This aerospace series standard specifies the technical requirements, test methods, qualification, and acceptance criteria for plastic cable ties used in aircraft cable harnesses. These cable ties serve essential functions such as bundling, fixing, and marking wiring harnesses critical for aircraft electrical systems.

The standard emphasizes that cable ties must be installed using qualified application tools that control the application force, thereby preventing damage to cable insulation. EN 4056-001:2015 complements existing standards (notably EN 62275), addressing specific aerospace requirements for cable ties.

Key Topics

• Scope & Application
  Defines cable ties' characteristics for aerospace harnesses, specifying materials, design, temperature ratings, and flammability classes suitable for aircraft environments.

• Material and Design Guidelines
  Cable ties must be made from virgin or UV-resistant plastics, with optional controlled use of reprocessed materials (up to 25%). The design must ensure smooth finishes without sharp edges to avoid insulation damage or operator injury. Color coding follows defined codes for clear identification.

• Performance Testing
  Detailed test methods (EN 4057 series) cover criteria like:

  • Visual inspections for defects and smooth edges
  • Mass and dimensional conformity
  • Salt mist resistance for corrosion protection (metallic locking parts)
  • Flammability classifications (Class 1 or Class 2)
  • Fluid resistance
  • Tensile strength at various temperatures and life cycle endurance
  • Resistance to UV radiation and heat aging
  • Locking device retention and compass safe distance (for metallic barbs)
  • Verification of application tool calibration to assure consistent tension

• Quality Assurance and Qualification
  Mandates strict initial qualification testing of all product variants and periodic requalification every three years. Acceptance testing is performed on batches to ensure ongoing compliance.

• Marking and Traceability
  Each cable tie must bear a manufacturer’s monogram as per EN 2424 and be designated with product codes clarifying material, flammability, size, color, and serration variants for precise identification.

• Packaging and Storage
  Packaging must include vital traceability information and protect cable ties from UV exposure when stored.

Applications

EN 4056-001:2015 cable ties are specifically designed for use in aerospace electrical harnesses where safety, durability, and performance under rigorous conditions are paramount. Applications include:

• Bundling and securing aircraft cable looms without causing insulation damage
• Marking cables within complex harness assemblies for identification and maintenance
• Use in harsh environments with temperature fluctuations, potential chemical exposure, and fire safety requirements
• Installation with calibrated tools ensuring consistent tension and reliable fastening
• Critical in aerospace manufacturing, maintenance, and repair operations demanding certified, traceable, high-quality components

The standard supports engineers, quality managers, and procurement specialists seeking compliant cable tie solutions to meet stringent aerospace electrical system demands.

Related Standards

EN 4056-001:2015 interfaces with several other important aerospace and cable management standards:

• EN 4056-002: Index of product standards for aerospace cable ties
• EN 62275: General cable management system standards
• EN 3475-100: Aerospace cable testing methods
• EN 9133: Quality management systems qualification for aerospace standard parts
• EN 2825 & EN 2826: Test methods for burning behaviour and smoke/toxicity of non-metallic materials
• EN 2424: Marking of aerospace products
• ISO 8815: Aircraft electrical cable and cable harness vocabulary and definitions

Together, these form a comprehensive framework ensuring aerospace cable ties' safety, performance, and traceability for manufacturers and operators.

Keywords: EN 4056-001:2015, aerospace cable ties, aircraft cable harnesses, cable tie standards, aerospace electrical components, cable tie testing, flammability class aerospace, cable tie quality assurance, plastic cable ties for aviation.