Understanding scale IP ratings

An IP rating refers to the level of protection that an electrical device provides against solids and liquids. In other words, it tells you how dust-tight and water-resistant a device’s housing is. In this article, we explain how to interpret a scale’s IP rating.

Interpreting an IP rating

An IP rating is made up of two numbers. The first number indicates the level of protection against solids (right down to a fleck of dust) on a scale from 0 to 6. The second number indicates the level of protection against moisture on a scale of 0 to 9 (or 9K).

Protection against solids

The first number in the IP rating corresponds to the following protections:

· 0: no protection

· 1: protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm

· 2: protection against solid objects larger than 12 mm

· 3: protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 mm

· 4: protection against solid objects larger than 1 mm

· 5: full protection against dust interfering with the operation of equipment

· 6: equipment is dust-tight (no dust can reach the electrical components)

As an example, say the device has a rating of IP40 and therefore level-4 protection against solids. This means that its electrical components are protected against penetration of objects larger than 1 mm (wires, for example). However, dust and small debris could still penetrate the housing and come in contact with the electrical parts.

Protection against liquids

The second number corresponds to the following protections:

· 0: no protection

· 1: protection against vertically dripping water

· 2: protection against vertically dripping water when device is titled 15 degrees

· 3: protection against vertically dripping water when device is tilted 60 degrees

· 4: protection against splashing from any direction

· 5: protection against low-pressure jets

· 6: protection against powerful jets

· 7: protection against water immersion

· 8: protection against extended immersion under high pressure

· 9K: protection against high-pressure, high-temperature jets (such as pressure washers)

What IP rating should I look for in a scale?

Most quality commercial and industrial scales have the highest level of protection against solids (Level 6) and varying levels of protection against liquids. The level of moisture protection a scale requires depends on the environment where it will be used.

IP65 and IP67 scales are common for commercial and industrial applications. IP65-rated scales can be wiped down with a damp cloth and can withstand humid environments. P67-rated scales are splashproof and can be sprayed down for cleaning.

Purchase a precision scale in Alberta

Turn to Accurate/Western Scale Co. Ltd. for a quality commercial or industrial weight scale. We also perform scale inspection and scale certifications in Calgary and throughout Alberta. Contact us to learn more.