What is the IP rating of ISO 20653?

The Ingress Protection (IP) rating system is a globally recognized standard for defining the level of protection provided by electrical enclosures against the intrusion of solid particles and liquids. ISO 20653 specifically focuses on the IP rating for automotive electrical components. Understanding these ratings is crucial for ensuring proper protection in challenging environments such as sandy or wet areas. This article aims to explain the IP rating system, specifically focusing on ISO 20653, in an easy-to-understand manner.

What do the numbers in an IP rating mean?

The IP rating consists of two digits. The first digit indicates the degree of protection against solid objects, while the second digit represents the degree of protection against liquids. Both digits range from 0 to 6, with higher numbers indicating better protection. Let's break it down further:

Understanding the first digit: Protection against solids

The first digit of an IP rating describes the protection against solid objects, such as dust and debris. Here's what each number signifies:

0: No protection against solids.

1: Protection against objects larger than 50 mm in diameter.

2: Protection against objects larger than 12.5 mm in diameter.

3: Protection against objects larger than 2.5 mm in diameter.

4: Protection against objects larger than 1 mm in diameter.

5: Dust-protected. Some dust may enter but will not interfere with the equipment's operation.

6: Completely dust-tight. No dust will enter.

Understanding the second digit: Protection against liquids

The second digit of an IP rating indicates the resistance to liquids, such as water and other fluids. Let's explore its meaning:

0: No protection against liquids.

1: Protection against vertically falling drops of water, like condensation.

2: Protection against direct sprays of water up to 15 degrees from vertical.

3: Protection against sprays of water from any direction, up to 60 degrees from vertical.

4: Protection against water splashes from any direction.

5: Protection against low-pressure jets of water from any direction.

6: Protection against powerful jets of water or heavy seas.

7: Protection against the effects of temporary immersion in water.

8: Protection against continuous immersion in water under defined conditions.

9: Protection against high-pressure, high-temperature jet sprays, steam cleaning, and other similar activities.

Conclusion

ISO 20653 defines the IP rating for automotive electrical components, ensuring their protection against solid particles and liquids. Understanding the IP rating system is essential for individuals working with or purchasing electrical equipment, as it helps them choose the appropriate level of protection based on the environment's challenges. By interpreting the numbers in an IP rating, one can assess the equipment's capability to withstand dust, debris, water, and other fluids. This knowledge contributes to increased safety, reliability, and performance of electrical components.