PD101 is our series on insights and advice into the less common elements of the Product Development Process. Today we talk IP Ratings.
What is an IP Rating?
An IP rating, also known as an INGRESS PROTECTION rating, is a standard (IEC 60529) used to measure the level of protection provided by a product against dust and water. The ratings are determined by a set of tests that are conducted on a product to determine its level of protection. These ratings are used in product development to ensure that products are able to withstand the conditions in which they will be used.How are IP Ratings specified?
The IP rating system consists of two numbers:
The first number represents the level of protection against SOLID objects, such as dust or other debris.
The second number represents the level of protection against LIQUIDS, such as water.
There are seven levels of protection that can be specified for SOLIDS, and ten levels of protection for LIQUIDS. The chart below shows how a rating can be specified for a product requirement. The higher the number, the greater the level of protection provided.
For example, an IP rating of IP67 means that the product is completely protected against dust and can withstand being submerged in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes.
On the other hand, an IP rating of IP54 means that the product is protected against dust and can withstand splashing water from all angles.
How are IP ratings determined?
When developing a product, it is important to consider the environment in which the product will be used. If the product will be used in a dusty or dirty environment, it is important to ensure that it has a high level of protection against solid objects. If the product will be used in a wet environment, it is important to ensure that it has a high level of protection against liquids.
For example, if a company is developing an outdoor camera that will be used in a variety of weather conditions, it would be important to ensure that the camera has an IP rating of at least IP66, which would protect it against dust and high pressure water jets.
In addition to considering the environment in which the product will be used, it is also important to consider the potential hazards that the product may encounter. For example, if a product will be used in a medical setting, it would be important to ensure that it has an IP rating of at least IP67, which would protect it against dust or biohazardous material ingress, and the possibility of being submerged in water or other solutions for cleaning or sterilization.
This is why IP ratings are an important consideration in product development. They provide a standard measurement of the level of protection provided by a product against dust and water, and are used to ensure that products are able to withstand the conditions in which they will be used. By considering the environment in which a product will be used and the potential hazards it may encounter, companies can ensure that their products are able to meet the needs of their customers.
Let the expert team at Whistle help guide your Product Development.
Considering working with us? Make sure you know the IP Rating you require. Need guidance? Get in touch.