SIST EN 2591-309:2001

Overview

EN 2591-309:1997 is a CEN aerospace series test method that specifies how to assess the ability of elements of electrical and optical connection to function under dry heat conditions. This part is intended to be used in conjunction with EN 2591 and forms part of the EN 2591-302 test suite. National adoptions, such as SIST EN 2591-309:2001, mirror the EN text.

The standard targets designers, test engineers, procurement teams and quality managers responsible for aerospace connectors and interconnect systems. It focuses on ensuring that electrical and optical connection elements sustain acceptable performance and reliability when exposed to elevated temperature and low-humidity environments.

Key Topics

• Scope and applicability: Defines which elements of electrical and optical connection are covered and how the dry heat method integrates with EN 2591.
• Test purpose: Evaluates functional ability and degradation risks for connectors and associated components when subjected to dry heat.
• Test sequence and reporting: Establishes principles for test execution, observation of performance criteria, and documentation of results (used together with EN 2591 requirements).
• Performance assessment: Focuses on operational continuity, signal integrity, contact resistance trends and optical transmission where applicable, without prescribing numerical limits that belong to product specifications.

Applications

This dry heat test method has practical value across aerospace electrical and optical interconnect workflows:

• Design validation: Integrate the test into prototype verification to confirm connector materials and assemblies resist dry heat degradation.
• Qualification testing: Use as part of environmental qualification campaigns for components destined for high-temperature, low-humidity flight regimes or ground storage.
• Supplier control: Include in supplier contracts and inspection plans to ensure compliant production batches meet environmental resilience expectations.
• Maintenance and repair planning: Inform service life assessments and determine appropriate inspection intervals for connectors exposed to hot, dry conditions.

Keywords: dry heat, test method, electrical and optical connection, aerospace connectors, EN 2591-309:1997.

Related Standards

• EN 2591 - overarching series for elements of electrical and optical connection and associated test methods
• EN 2591-302 - test series of which Part 309 forms a component

For implementation, always apply EN 2591-309:1997 together with the general provisions and any product-specific performance criteria defined in EN 2591 and related product specifications.