SIST EN 2591-411:2001

Overview

EN 2591-411:1998 - part of the CEN Aerospace series - specifies a method for assessing insert retention in housings (shells) of electrical and optical connection elements when subjected to torsional (rotational) loads. This test method is intended to be used in conjunction with the general EN 2591 series and applies to aerospace connectors and similar high-reliability connection devices.

Key topics and requirements

• Scope and purpose: Defines the objective and applicability of a torsional retention test for connector inserts in their housings.
• Test principle: Establishes a standardized method to subject connector assemblies to torsional stress and evaluate whether the insert remains retained in the housing.
• Specimen preparation: Covers requirements for representative samples and test configuration (sample selection and mounting) to ensure repeatable results.
• Test execution and observation: Specifies how torsional loads are applied and what retention behavior or failure modes are recorded (for example, displacement, rotation, or loss of retention).
• Evaluation: Describes the criteria and performance assessment used to judge acceptability of the insert retention under torsional loading.
• Use with EN 2591: Designed to be applied together with the overarching EN 2591 series to ensure consistent testing across electrical and optical connector elements.

(Note: EN 2591-411 sets the method and assessment approach rather than prescribing specific numerical limits that depend on connector type and contractual requirements.)

Applications

• Connector design and qualification: Used by OEMs and design engineers to validate mechanical retention features of electrical and optical connector housings.
• Production quality control: Employed by suppliers and assembly plants to verify consistent insert retention performance during manufacturing.
• Acceptance testing for procurement: Allows purchasers and prime contractors in aerospace to specify a repeatable test for supplier conformity.
• Maintenance and airworthiness support: Helps maintenance engineers assess connector integrity after installation, repair, or exposure to service-induced torsional stresses.
• Independent test laboratories: Provides a standardized method for third-party laboratories conducting aerospace connector performance tests.

Who should use this standard

• Aerospace connector manufacturers and designers
• Quality and test engineers in aerospace supply chains
• Procurement and certification teams specifying component acceptance tests
• Independent test laboratories performing connector qualification

Related standards

• EN 2591 series (general test methods for elements of electrical and optical connection)
• Other aerospace connector standards and industry specifications (referenced contractually as needed)

Keywords: EN 2591-411:1998, insert retention, torsional test, aerospace connectors, electrical and optical connection, CEN standard, connector housing, test methods.