IP55 security is a classification of electronic equipment protection against intrusion by solids and liquids, specified in the international standard IEC 60529. The designation ‘IP’ stands for ‘Ingress Protection’ and the number ’55′ indicates the degree of protection. This type of protection is commonly used in telecommunications cabinets to protect and make them much more resistant.
The first digit ‘5’ indicates that the equipment is protected against the entry of dust and other small solids. The second ‘5’ means that it’s protected against water jets from any direction, which means that the equipment is resistant to rain and splashes.
In summary, equipment with an IP55 security rating is designed to be resistant to the entry of dust and water jets from any direction. Making it suitable for use in environments where these conditions may be encountered, such as outdoors or in wet industrial environments.
Is IP55 suitable for outdoor use?
Yes, the IP55 security rating is commonly used in electronic equipment designed for outdoor use. This rating means that the equipment is protected against the entry of dust and water jets from any direction, making it suitable for outdoor use where it may be exposed to these environmental conditions.
Some examples of electronic equipment that may have an IP55 security rating and be suitable for outdoor use include LED garden lights or security cameras. It is important to note that although the IP55 rating offers some protection against environmental elements, the durability and resistance of the equipment will also depend on other factors such as construction material, design, proper use, and maintenance, among others.
Features of cabinets with IP55 protection
The IP55 security rating specifies the protection characteristics that an electronic device must have in order to protect itself against the entry of solids and liquids. The main characteristics of IP55 security include:
- Protection against solids: The IP55 rating indicates that the device is protected against the entry of dust and other small solids. The first number ‘5’ in the rating indicates that the device is resistant to the entry of dust.
- Protection against liquids: The IP55 rating indicates that the device is protected against water jets from any direction. The second number ‘5’ in the rating indicates that the device is resistant to the entry of water.
- Hermetic design: Devices with an IP55 rating often have a hermetic design, which means that they are sealed in such a way that solids and liquids cannot enter.
- Corrosion resistance: Most devices with an IP55 rating are designed to resist corrosion and rust, making them suitable for use in outdoor environments.
In general, the characteristics of IP55 security refer to the device’s ability to resist the entry of solids and liquids and protect its internal components from damage caused by environmental factors.