What is BS EN 61191-2018?

BS EN 61191-2018 is a technical specification issued by the European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization (CENELEC). It sets the requirements and guidelines for the qualification, acceptance, and performance criteria of electronic assemblies and electric components used in various industries. This article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the key aspects covered in BS EN 61191-2018.

Scope and Application

BS EN 61191-2018 applies to the electrical and electronic assemblies that are used in electronic equipment across different sectors, including automotive, aerospace, telecommunications, medical devices, consumer electronics, and more. The standard outlines the necessary performance parameters, test methods, and acceptance criteria for these assemblies, ensuring their reliability and suitability for their intended applications.

The scope of BS EN 61191-2018 covers a wide range of topics, including design rules, assembly processes, environmental considerations, and electrical testing. It provides detailed guidelines on identifying potential issues during the development and production stages, as well as recommendations to mitigate risks and enhance product quality.

Key Requirements and Test Procedures

One of the key requirements highlighted in BS EN 61191-2018 is design for manufacturability. It emphasizes the importance of optimizing the design of electronic assemblies to ensure ease of manufacturing, inspection, and testing. The standard provides guidelines for PCB layout, component placement, and thermal management, among other aspects, to facilitate efficient production processes.

Furthermore, BS EN 61191-2018 addresses the need for proper documentation and communication between stakeholders. It defines requirements for assembly drawings, bill of materials (BOM), and other technical documents that enable seamless collaboration among designers, manufacturers, and suppliers.

In terms of testing, the standard outlines various procedures to evaluate the performance and reliability of electronic assemblies. These include electrical testing, such as continuity, insulation resistance, and dielectric strength, as well as mechanical tests like shock and vibration resistance. Additionally, BS EN 61191-2018 provides guidance on environmental testing, including temperature cycling, humidity, and salt mist exposure, to assess the assembly's durability under different conditions.

Conclusion

BS EN 61191-2018 plays a vital role in ensuring the quality and reliability of electronic assemblies used in diverse industries. By following its guidelines and requirements, manufacturers can produce products that meet the necessary performance standards, enhancing customer satisfaction and reducing the risk of costly failures. This specification serves as an essential reference for designers, engineers, and manufacturers involved in the production of electronic assemblies, contributing to the overall advancement and innovation of the electronics industry.