Electric Motor Control Basics - Book - Page 90
Understanding IP Ratings
What Does IPX Mean?
The IEC 60529 standard grades each electrical enclosure on those two numbers listed
above. Manufacturers will place an “X” in the place of one (or both) of the two numbers
if a particular enclosure isn’t graded for that category.
Industrial Control
Basics:
Part 1, Contactors
Industrial Control
Basics: Part 2,
Overload Relays
Need an example?
Take an electrical socket that’s rated IP2X. This rating protects it against someone
inserting their fingers inside of it (Hence, the first “2”). However, it doesn’t require
protection against liquid, as it will function fine when exposed to vertically dripping
water.
As such, it’s written as IP2X, with the “2” standing for the solid protection only.
On the other hand, IPX2 may signify that a component has no definite protection
against foreign bodies. However, it has protection in an environment where water flows
at a 15-degree angle.
Likewise, a component rated IP5X can handle moderate amounts of dust but has no
moisture protection.
When you understand how to read these codes, you can ensure that your equipment
will remain in top operating condition. For instance, you wouldn’t install an electrical
cabinet in snowy Minnesota without first checking to make sure the components
feature an IP rating that ensures environmental protection.
Industrial Control
Basics: Part 3,
Starters
The Benefits of Type E/F
Motor Protection
Circuit Breakers
Basic Pump Control:
Three Phase DOL Starter
Control of an Electric Pump
Applying Motor Control
in a Wastewater
Application
NEMA vs IEC Motor
Controls
Understanding
IP Ratings
90
