What is the difference between IP55 and IP65?

When it comes to electrical equipment, there are several ratings that indicate its level of protection against various environmental factors. Two common ratings used for outdoor or harsh environment applications are IP55 and IP65. Let's take a closer look at what these ratings mean and the key differences between them.

IP55: Protection Against Dust and Water Jets

The IP55 rating is an international standard defined by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). The "IP" stands for Ingress Protection, and the two numbers following it represent the level of protection provided.

In the case of IP55, the first digit "5" signifies dust resistance. A rating of 5 indicates that the equipment is protected against dust ingress to a level that will not interfere with its normal operation. While the equipment is not completely dustproof, it is designed to prevent enough dust from entering to cause any significant damage.

The second digit "5" denotes water resistance. With a rating of 5, the equipment is protected against water jets from any direction. This means it can withstand water sprayed at it using a nozzle with a 6.3mm diameter opening, without allowing water to penetrate in a quantity that would cause harmful effects.

IP65: Protection Against Dust and Low-Pressure Water Jets

The IP65 rating has a similar structure to IP55, with the first digit representing dust resistance and the second digit indicating water resistance. However, there is a significant difference when it comes to water protection.

With an IP65 rating, the equipment provides better protection against water compared to IP55. The equipment is not only protected against water jets but also low-pressure water jets. It can handle water sprayed at it using a nozzle with a 6.3mm diameter opening, similar to IP55, but also withstands water projected by a nozzle from any direction at a lower pressure.

It's important to note that an IP65 rating does not make the equipment fully waterproof. It is designed to provide sufficient protection in outdoor environments where exposure to rain or hose-directed water is expected but cannot guarantee safety if it is submerged or exposed to high-pressure jets.

Conclusion

In summary, the difference between IP55 and IP65 lies primarily in their water resistance capabilities. While both ratings offer similar levels of dust protection, IP65 provides better protection against low-pressure water jets compared to IP55. When choosing between these two ratings, it is crucial to consider the specific environmental conditions in which the equipment will be used to ensure optimal performance and longevity.