The waterproof rating of the metal cable gland
The waterproof rating of the metal cable gland
The waterproof rating of metal connectors is typically classified using the IP (Ingress Protection) rating system established by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). This rating system evaluates the protective capabilities of connectors against solids and liquids, making it an important reference when selecting and installing electrical equipment.
Structure of IP Rating
An IP rating consists of "IP" followed by two digits:
The first digit indicates the level of protection against solid objects (such as dust, tools, etc.), ranging from 0 to 6.
0: No protection
1: Protection against solid objects larger than 50mm
2: Protection against solid objects larger than 12.5mm
3: Protection against solid objects larger than 2.5mm
4: Protection against solid objects larger than 1mm
5: Dust-protected, limited ingress (most dust cannot enter)
6: Totally dust-tight, no dust can enter
The second digit indicates the level of protection against liquids, ranging from 0 to 9.
0: No protection
1: Protection against vertically falling water drops
2: Protection against water drops falling at an angle up to 15 degrees
3: Protection against water spray (from nozzle, angled up to 60 degrees)
4: Protection against splashing water (from any direction)
5: Protection against low-pressure water jets (like from a tap)
6: Protection against powerful water jets
7: Protection against short immersion in water (typically up to 1 meter depth for 30 minutes)
8: Protection against long immersion in water (under specified pressure and time)
9: Protection against high-temperature, high-pressure water jets (e.g., during equipment cleaning)
Common IP Ratings and Their Applications
IP65: Equipment with this rating is completely dust-tight and can withstand low-pressure water jets from any direction. This makes IP65-rated metal connectors suitable for most outdoor and humid environments, such as parks, factories, or certain industrial applications.
IP66: Similar to IP65, IP66-rated equipment is fully dust-tight and can withstand strong low-pressure water jets. This level of protection is suitable for use in harsh weather conditions, such as coastal areas or places frequently exposed to rain.
IP67: Connectors with this rating are dust-tight and can withstand short immersion in water, making them suitable for temporary immersion applications, such as water pump control systems or certain outdoor lighting fixtures.
IP68: IP68-rated metal connectors are designed for long-term underwater operation. They can withstand immersion under specific pressures and durations, making them suitable for underwater equipment, diving lights, or other underwater applications.
