LV Switchgear IP Rating Optimisation 1

[brijgoyal]

My question is with regard to IP rating. I want to specify IP 31. Is there any benefit in specifying IP 41. What would the cost difference between the two for a typical switchboard and other pros and cons.
Other details are as below.
The LV switchgear will be installed indoors in an environmentally controlled switch room.
Other details are
Oil and gas industry
It will be arc resistance
Internal partition: Form 4b
Complying with IEC 61439
Thanks

 

[che12345]

Dear Mr. brijgoyal
Q1. "... I want to specify IP 31. Is there any benefit in specifying IP 41.
A1. IP 3X is protected against ingress of solid bodies > 2.5 mm dia.
IP 4X is protected against ingress of solid bodies > 1.0 mm dia.
It depends on your expectation/application/need. Which is better for your situation/installation.
Q2. "... Is there any benefit in specifying IP 41. "
A2. In general, IP4X is better than IP3X. See above A1.
Q3. "... What would the cost difference between... for a typical switchboard and other pros and cons" .
A3. In general, most LV switchgear can achieve IP4X without much extra effort/extra material/labour. Therefore, (usually) [no extra cost]. See above A1. for pros and cons.
Q4. "...The LV switchgear will be installed indoors in an environmentally controlled switch room."
A4. Under this very favorable conditions, IP31 would be acceptable. If there is [no extra cost], or even with a " very small" additional cost, IP41 would be better; even tough not required.
Che Kuan Yau (Singapore)

 

[brijgoyal]

Che,Many thanks for your response it is quite clear. Thanks