Electrical enclosure protection ratings are defined by the IP code, which stands for Ingress Protection or International Protection. The IP code consists of two digits, each indicating a different type of protection against the intrusion of foreign objects (like dust and water) into the enclosure. The IP rating is typically written as "IPXX," where "XX" represents the two-digit numbers.
The first digit represents the level of protection against solid particles (e.g., dust), and the second digit represents the level of protection against liquid ingress (e.g., water).
Here's a breakdown of the different types of IP ratings:
First Digit (Protection against solid particles):
0: No protection against solid particles.
1: Protection against solid objects greater than 50mm in size (e.g., the back of a hand).
2: Protection against solid objects greater than 12.5mm in size (e.g., fingers).
3: Protection against solid objects greater than 2.5mm in size (e.g., tools and wires).
4: Protection against solid objects greater than 1mm in size (e.g., small tools and wires).
5: Limited protection against dust ingress (enough to prevent harmful deposits).
6: Dust-tight protection (no ingress of dust).
Second Digit (Protection against liquid ingress):
0: No protection against liquids.
1: Protection against vertically falling drops of water or condensation.
2: Protection against vertically falling drops of water when the enclosure is tilted up to 15 degrees from its normal position.
3: Protection against spraying water at an angle of up to 60 degrees from vertical.
4: Protection against splashing water from any direction.
5: Protection against water jets from any direction.
6: Protection against powerful water jets or heavy seas.
7: Protection against temporary immersion in water (up to 1 meter depth).
8: Protection against continuous immersion in water beyond 1 meter depth.
For example, an enclosure with an IP65 rating would be dust-tight (first digit: 6) and protected against water jets from any direction (second digit: 5).
It's important to consider the appropriate IP rating for your specific application to ensure the electrical equipment is adequately protected from its environment.