Whether you are running a rotary phase converter or an electric vehicle (EV) charging station, you need an enclosure with the proper IP rating to get the job done while staying protected against outside invaders. We have created an outline of the four most common IP ratings, what they mean, and the level of protection they provide.
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What Are IP Ratings?
An IP (Ingress Protection) rating gauges an enclosure’s capabilities based on what level of protection it offers during operation. Every IP rating consists of two numbers, the first representing the enclosure’s protection against solid particles and the second illustrating its protection against water. The higher the IP rating, the more protection the enclosure will provide against solid particles and water.
Understanding An IP66 Rating
IP66 is the highest rating an enclosure can have. These enclosures provide complete protection against solid particles and significant protection against water. IP66 enclosures block out dust for two to eight hours at a time and keep out water from the ocean and powerful jets. They offer the same level of protection as NEMA 4 and 4X enclosures.
Characteristics of IP66 Ratings
An IP66 enclosure is the most durable option available on the market, providing optimal protection against foreign objects that would inhibit proper functioning. We have created a list of the characteristics of an enclosure with an IP66 rating.
Characteristics
- Full protection against dust, oil, and other non-corrosive materials
- Full protection against contact with other enclosures
- Substantial protection against water, even at a high pressure
- Engraving, silk-screening, or anodizing services available
- Can be customized with cutouts, insulation, hinges, latches, and locks
Understanding an IP65 Rating
While enclosures with an IP65 rating offer the same protection against solid particles as enclosures with an IP66 rating, it offers slightly less protection against water. These motor enclosures block out all dust for two to eight hours at a time and keep out water from jets.
Characteristics of IP65 Ratings
An IP65 enclosure offers premium durability and protects against substances that would either slow down or stop operation. Here are the device's primary components.
Characteristics
- Full protection against dust, oil, and other non-corrosive materials
- Full protection against contact with other enclosures
- Considerable protection against water
- Engraving, silk-screening, or anodizing services available
- Can be customized with cutouts, insulation, hinges, latches, and locks
Understanding an IP55 Rating
Enclosures with an IP55 rating offer less protection against solid particles and water than enclosures with an IP66 rating. While they also offer protections against solid particles like IP65 enclosures, they offer the same protection against water. IP55 enclosures are known for blocking out most dust for two to eight hours and keeping out water from jets.
IP55 Enclosure Characteristics
The IP55 enclosure has a few characteristics that distinguish it from other enclosure models.
Characteristics
- Protection against dust, oil, and other non-corrosive materials
- Protection against contact with other enclosures
- Available in aluminum, carbon steel, and stainless steel options
- Wall-mounted, free-standing, trough, and JIC box models available
- Engraving, silk-screening, or anodizing services available
- Can be customized with cutouts, insulation, hinges, latches, and locks
Understanding an IP54 Rating
Enclosures with an IP54 rating offer less protection against solid particles and water than both their IP66 and IP65 counterparts. While they also offer less protection against water than IP55 models, they offer the same protection against solid particles. IP54 enclosures are marked by their ability to block out most dust for two to eight hours and keep out water splashed onto it.
IP54 Enclosure Characteristics
While IP54 enclosures offer the least amount of protection against solid particles and water, they still offer considerable security. Check out the top callout features of this enclosure model.
Characteristics
- Protection against dust, oil, and other non-corrosive materials
- Protection against contact with other enclosures
- Protection against splashed water
- Available in aluminum, carbon steel, and stainless steel options
- Wall-mounted, free-standing, trough, and JIC box models available
- Engraving, silk-screening, or anodizing services available
- Can be customized with cutouts, insulation, hinges, latches, and locks
What Is a Rotary Phase Converter?
A rotary phase converter is a type of step-down transformer. It consists of two coils of wire wound around an iron core. The system converts high-voltage alternating current (AC) power into low-voltage direct current (DC) power.
When the input AC voltage is applied to the primary coil, it induces an alternating current in the secondary coil. The magnitude and direction of the induced current depend on the position of the secondary coil relative to the primary coil.
Invest in a Rotary Phase Converter
If you’re looking for a sturdy phase converter that can withstand harsh conditions, we have a variety of systems to meet your needs. Our selection of single to 3 phase converters include a carbon steel electrical enclosure and a wall-mount phase converter panel. It also features a reinforced lock and hinge and a waterproof sealing strip, providing optimal protection against foreign objects. It’s easy to install and can be used both indoors and outdoors. Give our team by phone at (866) 418-9060 to receive assistance choosing a phase converter for your unique application.