Enclosure Ratings

[fredt]

Hi

Could someone explain to me the differences between an IP55 enclosure and an IPW55 enclosure.
Thanks

 

[lesmcw]

TYPES OF PROTECTION FOR DUST

Electrical equipment can be also installed outdoors and in dusty, moist and chemically aggressive environment.
The protection systems for the electrical motors in this environment are classified with the IP (International Protection) code followed by 2 numbers and, in some application, by a letter.

IP - it stands for every kind of protection against accidental contacts of foreign bodies and against water;
First digit (0-6) - it stands for the kind of protection against accidental contacts of foreign bodies;
Second digit (0-8) - it stands for the kind of protection against water
W, S and M - additional letters for special protections: § W - it means that the machine has to be used in specified weather conditions and with special protections. This letter has to be added to the IP code (e.g. IPW55); § S - protection against the water only with standing still motor; § M - protection against the water when the motor is running.
IP 5X: Complete protection against contact and approaching of voltage-carrying parts inside the housing. Protection against harmful dust deposits.

The penetration of dust is not completely prevented but the dust cannot enter in such quantities as to affect operation.

IP 6X: Complete protection against contact and approaching of voltage-carrying parts as well against contact with rotating parts inside the housing. Protection against the penetration of dust (dustproof).