What is the IP Rating System?

The IP rating system, also known as the Ingress Protection rating system, is an international standard used to classify and rate the degree of protection provided by mechanical casings and electrical enclosures against intrusion, dust, accidental contact, and water. It was created by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and is defined in the international standard IEC 60529.

The IP code consists of the letters “IP” followed by two digits and an optional letter. The first digit indicates the level of protection against solid objects and dust, while the second digit indicates the level of protection against liquids. The optional letter provides additional information about the level of protection.

Here is a table summarizing the meaning of each digit in the IP code:

First Digit	Protection Against Solid Objects
0	No protection
1	Objects > 50 mm
2	Objects > 12.5 mm
3	Objects > 2.5 mm
4	Objects > 1 mm
5	Dust protected
6	Dust tight

Second Digit	Protection Against Liquids
0	No protection
1	Vertically dripping water
2	Dripping water tilted up to 15°
3	Spraying water
4	Splashing water
5	Water jets
6	Powerful water jets
7	Immersion up to 1 m
8	Immersion beyond 1 m
9	High-temperature water jets

For example, a device with an IP rating of IP67 would be completely dust tight and protected against the effects of temporary immersion in water between 15 cm and 1 m.

Why is the IP Rating System Important?

The IP rating system is important because it provides a standardized way to compare the level of protection offered by different devices and enclosures. This is especially critical for electronic devices that may be exposed to harsh environments, such as outdoor security cameras, industrial control systems, and mobile phones.

By knowing the IP rating of a device, consumers and engineers can make informed decisions about whether it is suitable for a particular application. For example, a device with an IP rating of IP54 would be suitable for use in a dusty warehouse but not in a location where it could be exposed to high-pressure water jets.

What is an IP20 Rating?

An IP20 rating indicates that a device is protected against solid objects greater than 12.5 mm in diameter but has no protection against liquids. This means that the device is protected against fingers or similar objects but could be damaged if exposed to water or other liquids.

Devices with an IP20 rating are suitable for use in dry, indoor environments where they are unlikely to be exposed to liquids or significant amounts of dust. Examples of devices with an IP20 rating include:

• Indoor light fixtures
• Desktop computers
• Home audio equipment
• Indoor electrical outlets and switches

Advantages of IP20 Devices

There are several advantages to using devices with an IP20 rating:

1. Cost: IP20 devices are generally less expensive than devices with higher IP ratings because they do not require additional sealing or protective features.

2. Ventilation: The lack of sealing in IP20 devices allows for better ventilation, which can help to prevent overheating and extend the life of the device.

3. Accessibility: IP20 devices are easier to access and repair than devices with higher IP ratings because they do not have sealed enclosures that need to be opened.

4. Aesthetics: IP20 devices often have a cleaner, more streamlined appearance than devices with higher IP ratings because they do not require bulky protective casings.

Disadvantages of IP20 Devices

While IP20 devices have several advantages, there are also some disadvantages to consider:

1. Limited protection: IP20 devices offer no protection against liquids and only limited protection against solid objects, which means they are not suitable for use in harsh environments.

2. Increased risk of damage: The lack of sealing in IP20 devices means that they are more susceptible to damage from dust, debris, and accidental contact.

3. Reduced durability: IP20 devices may have a shorter lifespan than devices with higher IP ratings because they are not as well protected against the elements.

Choosing the Right IP Rating for Your Application

When choosing a device for a particular application, it is important to consider the environment in which it will be used and select a device with an appropriate IP rating. Here are some factors to consider:

• Exposure to liquids: If the device will be exposed to water, rain, or other liquids, choose a device with a higher IP rating for liquid protection (e.g., IP65 or higher).

• Exposure to dust and debris: If the device will be used in a dusty or dirty environment, choose a device with a higher IP rating for solid object protection (e.g., IP6X).

• Exposure to extreme temperatures: If the device will be exposed to high or low temperatures, choose a device that is rated for use in those conditions.

• Required accessibility: If the device needs to be easily accessible for maintenance or repairs, an IP20 rating may be sufficient.

• Budget: Higher IP ratings generally come at a higher cost, so it is important to balance the required level of protection with the available budget.

By considering these factors and selecting a device with an appropriate IP rating, you can ensure that your device will be able to withstand the environmental conditions in which it will be used.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What does IP stand for in IP rating?
   IP stands for “Ingress Protection” in the IP rating system.

2. Can an IP20 device be used outdoors?
   No, an IP20 device should not be used outdoors because it does not offer any protection against liquids and only limited protection against solid objects. Outdoor devices should have a higher IP rating (e.g., IP65 or higher).

3. Are IP ratings mandatory for all electronic devices?
   No, IP ratings are not mandatory for all electronic devices, but they are highly recommended for devices that may be exposed to harsh environments or liquids.

4. Can an IP rating be upgraded after a device is manufactured?
   No, an IP rating cannot be upgraded after a device is manufactured because it is determined by the physical design and construction of the device.

5. What is the highest IP rating?
   The highest IP rating is IP69K, which indicates complete protection against dust and high-temperature, high-pressure water jets.

Conclusion

The IP rating system is an important tool for classifying and comparing the level of protection offered by electronic devices and enclosures. By understanding the meaning of each digit in the IP code and considering the environmental conditions in which a device will be used, consumers and engineers can make informed decisions about which devices are suitable for their applications.

While IP20 devices offer limited protection and are not suitable for use in harsh environments, they can be a cost-effective and practical choice for indoor applications where exposure to liquids and dust is minimal. Ultimately, the choice of IP rating will depend on the specific requirements and budget of each application.