EN 2349-410:2007

Overview

EN 2349-410:2007 is a European aerospace standard developed by CEN that specifies the testing method to evaluate the resistance of relays and contactors to mould contamination. It forms part of the EN 2349 series, which sets comprehensive requirements and test procedures for aerospace relays and contactors. This particular part, titled "Part 410: Mould," ensures that electrical components used in aviation and aerospace applications maintain reliability and safety when exposed to potential mould environments.

The standard is intended to be used in conjunction with EN 2349-100, which covers general requirements for relays and contactors. Together, these documents provide a robust framework to assess the durability and performance of these electrical devices under environmental stress caused by biological contamination such as mould.

Key Topics

• Scope and Purpose
  Defines a method to check the capability of aerospace relays and contactors to resist mould attack, crucial for maintaining operational integrity.

• Normative References
  The standard references key documents including:

  • EN 2349-100: General requirements for aerospace relays and contactors
  • EN 2349-201: Visual inspection procedures
  • ISO 7137: Environmental conditions and test methods for airborne equipment

• Test Methodology
  The test requires wiring the relay or contactor as per product specifications, then subjecting it to a mould exposure test following ISO 7137 for 28 days. This simulates real-life environmental conditions where mould development could compromise component functionality.

• Acceptance Criteria
  Post-test inspection must show no evidence of mould attack or degradation. Compliance is checked through visual inspection according to EN 2349-201.

Applications

EN 2349-410:2007 applies specifically to the aerospace industry, where the reliability of electrical components like relays and contactors is critical under demanding environmental conditions, including high humidity and potential biological contaminants. Key applications include:

• Aircraft Electrical Systems
  Ensuring relays and contactors resist mould growth helps maintain electrical integrity and avoid failures in critical avionics and power distribution.

• Spacecraft Components
  Aerospace-grade standards are essential for components exposed to varying atmospheric conditions, where mould could compromise sealing and electrical connections.

• Defense Aviation Equipment
  Military aerospace systems require strict adherence to environmental resistance standards to guarantee mission safety and equipment longevity.

The standard supports manufacturers, quality control engineers, and certification bodies focused on validating component durability and compliance in harsh environments.

Related Standards

• EN 2349-100: Aerospace Series – General Requirements for Relays and Contactors
  Provides foundational requirements required for all parts of EN 2349, including environmental, electrical, and mechanical specifications.

• EN 2349-201: Visual Inspection for Relays and Contactors
  Defines methods to visually assess the condition of components after environmental testing, including mould resistance.

• ISO 7137: Aircraft – Environmental Conditions and Test Procedures
  Specifies environmental test conditions relevant to airborne equipment including temperature, humidity, and mould exposure.

• EUROCAE ED-14 / RTCA DO-160
  Internationally recognized environmental test standards for avionics, endorsed and referenced by ISO 7137.

Benefits of Compliance

• Enhanced Component Reliability
  Ensures relays and contactors remain operational without degradation caused by mould, critical for flight safety.

• Regulatory Alignment
  Meets European and international aerospace testing mandates, facilitating approvals and certifications.

• Improved Product Quality
  Fosters robust design and manufacturing processes resistant to biological contamination.

• Risk Mitigation
  Reduces failure incidents linked to environmental factors, contributing to safer and more durable aerospace systems.

By adhering to EN 2349-410:2007, aerospace manufacturers and suppliers ensure that their relay and contactor products meet stringent environmental resistance criteria, safeguarding equipment performance in mould-prone conditions while supporting aerospace industry standards and certifications.