IP Codes and what they mean
An IP code is the International Protection marking, or Ingress Protection marking, assigned to outdoor electrical enclosures, some electrical enclosure locks and latches, and electrical accessories used indoors. They’re commonly used in Europe, but are growing in use here in the U.S., so it’s a good idea to become familiar with them.
Essentially, it’s a ranking that tells you the amount of protection the product provides against the entry of solid foreign objects, such as fingers and tools, and against moisture infiltration. To the uninitiated, the mixture of letters and numbers requires an enigma machine. Here’s a quick breakdown of what they mean:
First Digit (Solids)
This indicates the level of protection that the electrical accessory or enclosure, for example an outdoor utility cabinet, provides against hazardous parts and the ingress of solid foreign objects.
| Level | Protection from a solid object: |
|---|---|
| 1 | Greater than 50mm, such as a hand |
| 2 | Greater than 12.5mm, such as fingers |
| 3 | Greater than 2.5mm, such as fine or small tools or thick wires |
| 4 | Greater than 1mm, such as most wires, slender screws, large insects, etc. |
| 5 | Dust, but not entirely protected – only enough that won’t interfere with the quality of the equipment’s operation |
| 6 | Complete protection from dust; dust tight, with a vacuum applied |
Second Digit (Water)
This is the level of protection the enclosure provides against water ingress.
| Level | Protection from: |
|---|---|
| 1 | Vertically falling drops of water, such as drips. Limited Ingress expected |
| 2 | Vertically falling drops of water, with enclosure titled up to 15 degrees from vertical position. Limited Ingress expected |
| 3 | Sprays of water up to 60 degrees from vertical position. Limited ingress allowed for 3 minutes |
| 4 | Sprays of water up to 60 degrees from vertical position. Limited ingress allowed for 3 minutes |
| 5 | Low pressure jets of water. Limited ingress expected |
| 6 | Water from seas or projected in high-pressure jets shall not enter in harmful amounts |
| 7 | Effects of immersion in water between 15cm and 1m for 30 minutes |
| 8 | Effects of immersion in water of 1m or more, under pressure for long periods |
| 9 | Close range, high-pressure, high-temperature spray downs |
How cable management can help
Electrical cable management can give you additional protection for say, a rack mount cabinet with a high IP rating. Cord grips and sealing grommets, for example, are available with IP ratings. You should also consider your rack cable management and cable management panels. You may also need heat resistant cables.
Cable mounts are important, too, when heat is a factor. Avoid adhesive cable mounts in his situation, because they won’t hold up in high temperatures. Always think about the enclosure’s environment. Taking these extra steps means your electrical enclosure will operate at maximum efficiency.
How different types of locks and latches can help
Locks and latches should uphold the IP rating of your outdoor enclosure for electrical equipment. Quarter turn enclosure latches are available with IP ratings and make an excellent choice. For inside enclosures, compression latches also come IP rated and provide you with the characteristics you need, including noise isolation.
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Questions?
Email us at sales@essentracomponents.com or speak to one of our experts for further information on the ideal solution for your application 800-847-0486.