Have you ever encountered wording such as IP55 or IPX8 when reading about the features of an electronic product, such as a smartphone, speaker or storage device? They may seem like an algebraic equation missing half the equation. However, they have real-life meaning and contain valuable details about the device.
They are called ingress protection (IP for short) ratings, showing the product’s ability to resist the intrusion of dust and liquids. IP ratings came about in 1976 due to electric and electronic equipment’s irritating tendency to deteriorate or malfunction when water or dust got into it. The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), a global non-profit membership organisation consisting of 170 countries, developed the ratings, which are still widely used throughout the industry.
In addition to rating the potential for dust and liquid intrusion, the standard (IEC 60529) also rates how easy it is for users to access the potentially hazardous parts within the device enclosure. Electrical equipment with a maximum voltage of 72.5 kV can be rated. The IEC has determined tests to be performed by manufacturers that will verify whether a device’s enclosure meets the IP requirements.
The IEC’s goal was to create a single document bringing together all requirements regarding the protection of device enclosures. Before the IEC, separate standards were used for motors and low-voltage switchgear, and control gear.
