About IP65, IP67, IP69K? Four Things You Need to Know
An IP rating that is predefined by a manufacturer is frequently found when looking through product specification documents. What do those figures indicate? What does an IP rating mean?
In this article, we’ll concentrate on IP ratings and what they might reveal about a certain product.
An International Standard Defines IP Ratings
The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standard 60529 defines IP (or Ingress Protection) ratings, which are used to categorize the sealing efficacy of a specific electrical enclosure against incursion from outside bodies and moisture. Hands, fingers, tools, wires, and dust are a few examples of these foreign bodies. Instead than using ambiguous marketing jargon like “waterproof,” this international standard tries to convey more information. A nationally recognized laboratory and NVLAP approved laboratories can carry out ingress protection testing in accordance with IEC 60529 for lighting products.
The IP Rating’s Numbers Have Two Meaningns
An IP rating’s distinguishing numbers showed compliance with the conditions listed in the table below. The first digit indicates the degree of defense offered by a certain enclosure against dangerous components and the entry of solid foreign objects. The second digit indicates whether the equipment inside the enclosure is protected from water entry. For instance, an LED luminaire with an IP 65 rating is completely safe from dust incursion but becomes harmful if fully submerged in water.
In An IP Rating, A Third Digit May Exist.
IEC 60529 does not contain the letter K’s specifications; DIN 40050-9 does.
IP ratings beginning with the letter “K” (IP69K usually) are more prevalent in sectors that prepare food or in industries where upholding a high standard of sanitation and cleanliness is crucial. Dust, high temperatures, chemicals, and high pressure water are all protected by IP69K. This rating indicates that an enclosure can endure a thorough high pressure wash-down. The product will be placed on a turntable that rotates at a speed of 5±1 revolutions per minute for this specific water intrusion test. Then, at a temperature of 176°F (80°C), the product is sprayed at a close range at a rate of about 4 gallons per minute with water pressure ranging from 1160 to 1450 psi. Various angles are used to hold the water-spraying nozzle between 4 and 6 inches from the product enclosure.
An additional digit, frequently an additional letter, indicating the enclosure has additional security measures:
- F – Oil Resistant
- D – Wire
- H – High Voltage
- M – Moving Device During Water Test
- S – Device Standing Still During Water Test
- W – Conditions of the weather
IP Ratings Respectively Meet NEMA Enclosure Ratings
NEMA standard number 250 contains a definition of NMA enclosure types from the National Electrical Manufacturers Association. The table to the right lists which IEC 60529 IP code, as compared to the NEMA rating, corresponds to which standard, despite the fact that the two are not exactly similar. NEMA ratings call for other product characteristics and testing that aren’t covered by IP ratings, for functionality in ice conditions, hazardous locations, cable connection knockouts, and others.
Knowing What Your IP Ratings Mean
Understanding what an IP rating for a specific luminaire means can help you create the most logical lighting plan or make an informed purchase for your facilities. You can get assistance from our knowledgeable lighting professionals throughout the procedure! Please get in touch with us directly using the form below if you have any questions about a specific luminaire or simply require project advice.
