What is IEC 60529:2019

iec 60529:2019 is the international standard for degrees of protection provided by enclosures. This standard, also known as "IP code" or "Ingress Protection code," is used to classify and rate the levels of protection against solid objects and liquids that can enter an electrical or mechanical enclosure.

Understanding the IP Code System

The IP code system consists of two digits, where the first digit represents the level of protection against solid objects, and the second digit represents the level of protection against liquids. The higher the number, the greater the protection. For example, an IP67 rating indicates a high level of protection against both solids and liquids.

Solid Object Protection Classification

The first digit in the IP code deals with the level of protection against solids. It ranges from 0 to 6, with each number representing different sizes of objects. Here's a brief breakdown:

- IP0X: No protection against contact and ingress of objects.

- IP1X: Protection against solid objects larger than 50mm, such as the back of a hand.

- IP2X: Protection against solid objects larger than 12.5mm, such as fingers.

- IP3X: Protection against solid objects larger than 2.5mm, such as small tools or wires.

- IP4X: Protection against solid objects larger than 1mm, such as small screws.

- IP5X: Dust protected, but not entirely dustproof.

- IP6X: Totally dustproof, with no ingress of dust.

Liquid Protection Classification

The second digit in the IP code deals with protection against liquids. It ranges from 0 to 9, with each number representing different levels of liquid protection. Here's a summary:

- IPX0: No protection against liquids.

- IPX1: Protection against vertically falling drops of water or condensation.

- IPX2: Protection against vertically falling drops of water when the enclosure is tilted up to 15 degrees.

- IPX3: Protection against sprays up to an angle of 60 degrees from vertical.

- IPX4: Protection against splashes from any direction.

- IPX5: Protection against water jets from any direction at low pressure.

- IPX6: Protection against powerful water jets from any direction at high pressure.

- IPX7: Protection against the effects of immersion in water at depths between 15cm and 1m.

- IPX8: Protection against continuous immersion in water under specified conditions.

- IPX9K: Protection against high-pressure, high-temperature water jets.

It's important to note that the IEC 60529 standard primarily addresses protection provided by enclosures for electrical equipment. This includes devices such as smartphones, home appliances, outdoor lighting, and industrial machinery. Understanding the IP code system is essential in determining the suitable level of protection required for various applications and environments.