IP ratings are `causing confusion`

There is widespread confusion among enclosure users over the meaning and scope of the IP (ingress protection) rating system, an industry expert has warned. Brian O`Donoghue, chairman of the Gambica enclosures group, says that users are attempting to interpret the ratings more widely than intended, and are then disappointed at what they think are shortcomings in the products they have bought.

"All of the companies in the companies in the Gambica enclosures group receive calls from unhappy users complaining that, for example, they`ve used an IP66 enclosure, which protects against water jets - but it`s started to go rusty," O`Donoghue reports. "The clear implication is that they believe that the IP ratings suggests that the enclosure will not rust or corrode when exposed to water. This is, however, a totally incorrect interpretation of the IP rating system.

"In reality," he continues, "the IP rating says nothing about the ability of a particular enclosure to resist corrosion. The rating only tells the user that, when new, the enclosure will protect against the ingress of water and solids to the extent stated."

O`Donoghue, who is strategic marketing manager for the enclosure-maker Sarel, says that users should remember that IP stands for "ingress protection" and that the IP rating system gives no information about any of an enclosure`s other characteristics.

Users looking for enclosures to withstand corrosion in demanding conditions should check the manufacturers` data sheets for statements on corrosion resistance, or consult the enclosure-makers for advice.