When it comes to gadgets and gizmos that brave the elements, there’s more to them than meets the eye. Enter the IP rating, the unsung hero of durability standards across Europe and beyond. Let’s find out the nitty-gritty of what those cryptic numbers on your device really mean.

What do the numbers mean on an IP rating?

Ever wondered about those mysterious numbers on your tech gadgets? Well, the IP rating dance involves two main numbers, each holding the secret to a device’s resilience..

The first digit, a sort of solid superhero, rates how well your gear can ward off dust storms and debris invaders. Think of it as the fortress guards keeping unwanted particles at bay while ensuring the innards stay hidden from prying eyes, or fingers.

And then, marching onto the scene is the second digit, the moisture maestro. It’s the defender against drips, submersion, and anything water-related, but hold your horses-it’s strictly freshwater territory. Your device might be an aquatic expert, but don’t count on it if you’re diving into a pool of soda or coffee. Sorry, caffeine addicts, IP ratings don’t cover that.

The international IP rating makes it simple to know how protected equipment and products are at an initial glance.

IP Solids Level Size of object protected against Protects Against
0 None Nothing. Allows in all dust and debris.
1 > 50 mm A large surface of the body, such as a hand (no protection against deliberate access).
2 > 12.5 mm Fingers or similar objects not exceeding 80mm in length.
3 > 2.5 mm Tools, wires, etc., of diameter or thickness greater than 2.5 mm.
4 > 1 mm Wires or other similar solid material of thickness greater than 1mm in diameter.
5 Dust Protected Dust that could interfere with satisfactory operation of equipment.
6 Dust Tight All dust
IP Liquid Level Type of water or liquid Protection
0 None No liquid protection
1 Dripping Vertical dripping on an upright object
2 Dripping at 15 Vertical dripping on an object leaning at 15 from vertical
3 Spraying Spraying up to 60 from vertical
4 Splashing Splashes on an object from any angle
5 Jets from a 6.3mm diameter nozzle Jet sprayed from any angle
6 Powerful jets from a 12.5mm diameter nozzle or heavy seas 100 kPa (14.5 PSI) jets from 3 meters
6k Very powerful jets 1,000 kPa (145 PSI) power jets from 3 meters
7 Immersion to 1 metre Up to 1 metre of immersion for up to 30 minutes
8 Submersion deeper than 1 metre Immersion to a depth specified by the manufacturer (suggests it is airtight)
9k Powerful, high-temperature jets Close-range jets up to 80 C/176 F

What are the applications of IP ratings?

  • Medical Devices- IP ratings play the role of the guardian angel for medical devices. Imagine a scenario where your MRI machine or life-saving ventilator throws a tantrum every time a speck of dust waltzes in. Not cool, right? Medical equipment needs the highest level of protection, ensuring it stays in tip-top shape, ready to save the day.

    Moreover, avoiding cross-contamination is a big deal. An IP-rated device ensures that no unwanted bits or liquids sneak into crucial equipment during life-saving procedures. Because of its importance, many medical device makers team up with companies like IDR Medical (idrmedical.com) to explore the market. These research-focused companies tend to offer valuable qualitative data and insights into the design and performance of IP-rated devices. This collaboration aims to develop more efficient and reliable products that align with the specific needs of both medical professionals and patients.

  • Electronics- Your trusty smartphone or laptop isn’t just a tech companion; it’s a warrior against the daily grind. From pocket lint to accidental coffee spills (because we’ve all been there), electronics face a constant barrage. The IP rating on your gadget is its armor, defending against the elements so you can continue tweeting your hilarious cat memes, rain or shine.

    Furthermore, electronics companies battle to create gadgets that withstand the unpredictable nature of everyday life. An IP rating isn’t just a number; it’s a badge of honor, signaling that your device can handle the chaos of the modern world without missing a beat.

  • Outdoor Gears- Picture this: you’re out in the wilderness, facing the unpredictable forces of nature. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or just exploring, your gear needs to be up for the challenge. This is where the IP rating becomes a game-changer.

    Outdoor enthusiasts rely on equipment that can handle the rough and tumble of the wild. From waterproof cameras capturing breathtaking moments in the rain to rugged GPS devices guiding you through uncharted territory, an IP rating ensures that your gear goes the extra mile. It’s not just a specification; it’s the assurance that your tools can keep up with your adventurous spirit.

At the product design and development stage, understanding IP ratings and the requirements of the product can help a designer to create the best product possible.