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What is IP Protection Class?

When using both mechanical and electronic devices, it must be checked whether it is suitable for the conditions of the environment to be used. Otherwise, the devices may break down and may cause serious damages to other integrated systems.

Well, how can we know does the device is suitable for the conditions of the environment to be used? Of course, we have to investigate the device’s technical features from the user manual.

In the user manual, having different technical features depends on the device type. Technical features like size, weight, operating and storage temperature, in addition, according to the type of device the supply voltage, internal resistance, alarm current, etc. are frequently found in the user manual. One of the most common technical features is the IP protection class. Alright, What is IP protection class? How does it read and evaluate?

The extension of the IP code refers to “Ingress Protection” and “International Protection” in international sources. For all over the world, the IP protection class coding system is specified, according to IEC 60529 standards.

According to IEC 60529, the IP coding system has a 2-digit number next to the IP word. These numbers classify how the device can resist solid and liquid objects. The first order of the number shows the resistance of the solid objects. The second order of the number shows the resistance of the liquid objects.

1. Order: Resistance of the Solid Objects

Protection Class	Explanation
0	Nonprotected
1	Protection against solid objects greater than 50 mm in diameter
2	Protection against solid objects greater than 12,5 mm in diameter
3	Protection against solid objects greater than 2,5mm in diameter
4	Protection against solid objects greater than 1 mm in diameter
5	Dust protection
6	Dustproof

2. Order: Resistance of the Liquid Objects

Protection Class	Explanation
0	Nonprotected
1	Have to protect against spraying liquids on the device from vertical angle
2	Have to protect against spraying liquids on the device from 0-15° angle
3	Have to protect against spraying liquids on the device from 0-60° angle
4	Have to protect against splashing liquids on the device from any direction
5	Have to protect against flushing liquids on the device from any direction
6	Have to protect from continuously sinking into the water
7	Have to protect for less than 30 minutes of sinking into the water
8	Have to protect for continuously sinking into the water

Well then, how do we read and evaluate the IP protection class? Which environments a fire alarm siren with IP protection class IP 65 is suitable? We can examine from the table below:

IP protection class can frequently be found in technical specifications. Especially in technical specifications related to fire detection systems, Manual call point, siren, flasher and flasher sounders to be used in outdoor environments, IP 65, IP 67, etc. high IP protection classes are requested. Because these devices to be used in the outdoor environment must not be affected by dust, wind, and rain.

When selecting a product, it must be ensured that the IP protection class of the product is at least as much as the required IP protection class. For example: If the IP 65 protection class is required for the manual call point, the IP protection class of the product must be selected at least IP 65. Also, IP 66, IP 67, etc. buttons with higher IP protection can also be selected.

To summarize, IP protection class codes are designed, according to the internationally recognised IEC 60529 standard. Selection of both electronic and mechanical devices, consider the environment in which the chosen device is in the IP protection class or not, it must be checked. Otherwise, the devices may not work properly and could damage the connected systems.

References

IEC 60529, “degrees of Protection Provided by Enclosures (IP Codes),” Ed. 2.1

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