Electrical Protection (IP)
IP (Ingress Protection) classes are a standardized way to indicate and categorize the level of protection of electrical equipment against external influences such as dust and water. They consist of two numbers, each number representing a different level of protection.
First number - protection against solid objects:
IP0X: The device has no protection against solid objects.
IP1X: The device is protected against solid objects larger than 50 mm, such as a large part of the body.
IP2X: The device is protected against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm, such as a finger.
IP3X: The device is protected against solid objects larger than 2.5 mm, such as a tool or cable.
IP4X: The device is protected against solid objects larger than 1 mm, such as most crumbs or small tools.
IP5X: The device is protected against dust, and dust should not enter the device in an amount that could negatively affect its operation.
IP6X: The device is completely protected against dust and dust should not enter the device.
Second number - protection against water:
IPX0: The device has no protection against water.
IPX1: The device is protected against vertical dripping water droplets.
IPX2: The device is protected against running water when tilted up to 15° from vertical.
IPX3: The device is protected against running water when tilted up to 60° from vertical.
IPX4: The device is protected against splashing water from any direction.
IPX5: The device is protected against splashing water from any direction, while water must not enter the device in an amount that could cause damage.
IPX6: The device is protected against heavy splashing of water from any direction, while water must not enter the device in an amount that could cause damage.
IPX7: The device is protected against temporary immersion in water up to a depth of 1 meter for a certain period of time.
IPX8: The device is protected against immersion in water under specified conditions. The exact conditions are specified by the manufacturer.
IP classes are important when choosing electrical equipment for different environments. It is important to keep in mind the requirements for protection against dust and water depending on the specific application and environment in which the device is used.