What is Ingress Protection Rating (IP Rating)?
An Ingress Protection Rating, or IP Rating, is a standardized measure used to define levels of sealing effectiveness
of electrical enclosures against intrusion from foreign bodies and moisture.
This rating is crucial in the context
of telematics and heavy-duty vehicles, as it determines
how well the telematics devices can withstand harsh
environmental conditions like dust, water, and impact, ensuring reliable performance and durability.
How do IP Ratings Work?
An IP Rating consists of two digits: the first digit indicates the level of protection against solid objects
and dust, while the second digit represents the level of protection against liquids.
The higher the number, the better
the protection. In the context of telematics for heavy-duty vehicles, a high IP rating is essential for devices
exposed to rugged conditions, ensuring they remain functional and accurate in various challenging environments.
For instance, an IP rating of IP67 means the device is completely dust-tight (6) and can be
submerged in water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes (7).
IP Ratings Chart
The IP Ratings Chart is a quick reference to understand the protection level each rating provides:
First Digit (x)
Protection Against Solids
Second Digit (y)
Protection Against Liquids
0
No protection
0
No protection
1
Protected against solid objects up to 50mm
1
Protected against vertically falling drops
2
Protected against solid objects up to 12mm
2
Protected against direct sprays up to 15° from vertical
3
Protected against solid objects up to 2.5mm
3
Protected against direct sprays up to 60° from vertical
4
Protected against solid objects up to 1mm
4
Protected against water sprayed from all directions
5
Dust protected - limited ingress (no harmful deposit)
5
Protected against low-pressure water jets from all directions
6
Dust tight - no ingress of dust
6
Protected against strong water jets and waves
-
-
6K
Protected against powerful water jets and heavy seas
-
-
7
Protected against immersion up to 1m depth
-
-
8
Protected against long periods of immersion under pressure
-
-
9K
Protected against high-pressure, high-temperature jet sprays, wash-downs or steam-cleaning procedures
Conclusion
The Ingress Protection Rating is a critical factor in selecting telematics devices for heavy-duty vehicles, ensuring
that the equipment can endure the rigorous conditions they are exposed to.
Understanding the specifics of each
rating, from dust protection to water immersion resistance, is key to choosing the right devices for optimal
performance and longevity in demanding environments.
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