EN 60529 outlines an international classification system for the sealing effectiveness against both objects (tools, dust, fingers) and moisture.
Also, refer to our Knowledge Based Article on UL/NEC Explosion Proof and Hazardous Location classifications.
It is common and costly to misclassify an area, forcing the use of an expensive Hazardous Classified Fixture when a lower level Classification or unclassifeid fixture would surfice. The opposit may also be true; a fixture is specified that is not adequate to the areas hazardous environment. Always confirm that an area has been properly classified before proceeding.
As defined in international standard, IEC 60529 classifies the degrees of protection provided against the intrusion of solid objects (including body parts like hands and fingers), dust, accidental contact, and water in electrical enclosures and lighting fixtures.
The IP Code (or International Protection Rating, sometimes also interpreted as Ingress Protection Rating) consists of the letters IP followed by two digits and an optional letter(s).
The first digit refers to protection from physical objects. The second digit deals with moisture. The digits (characteristic numerals) indicate conformity with the conditions summarized in the tables below. Where there is no protection rating with regard to one of the criteria, the digit is replaced with the letter X.
For example, an electrical socket rated IP22 is protected against insertion of fingers and will not be damaged or become unsafe during a specified test in which it is exposed to vertically or nearly vertically dripping water. IP22 or IP2X are typical minimum requirements for the design of electrical accessories for indoor use. Most unsealed lighting fixture systems, therefore, have an inherent IP20 rating.
Should you or your customer have any further questions related to IP classifications, or any Crownlite product, Please >> Contact Crownlite.
Please see the COMPLETE ARTICLE below for a more complete listing of IP Ratings and their meaning, as they relate to lighting products.
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