IEC 60529 testing
The 6NAPSE Group carries out IEC 60529 testing to classify the levels of protection offered by the enclosures of electrical and electronic equipment.
What is the IEC 60529 standard?
The IEC 60529 standard defines a clear and standardized “IP Code” (Ingress Protection) system that allows manufacturers, designers, and users to understand the extent to which a device is protected against the ingress of solid objects (such as dust) and liquids (such as water). The standard applies to equipment with a rated voltage not exceeding 72.5 kV.
Which systems are covered by IEC 60529 ?
In principle, IEC 60529 applies to a very wide range of electrical and electronic equipment for which protection against the ingress of solids and liquids is important. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Household appliances: ovens, washing machines, refrigerators (especially electrical parts exposed to moisture).
- Computer and consumer electronics equipment: telephones (some “rugged” models), tablets, cameras, audio equipment (depending on their intended use, e.g., outdoors or in humid environments).
- Industrial equipment: machine tools, sensors, actuators, control panels, electrical cabinets, motors, industrial lighting.
- Lighting equipment: indoor and outdoor luminaires, floodlights, streetlights, pool lighting.
- Communications equipment: antennas, junction boxes, network equipment.
- Measurement and control equipment: probes, temperature sensors, electrical meters.
- Medical devices: certain equipment requiring protection against liquids (cleaning, sterilization).
- Electrical and electronic components: junction boxes, connectors, switches, sockets.
IEC 60529 tests to check the protection index
The 6NAPSE Group conducts ingress protection testing to assess the protection of electrical equipment against foreign bodies, water, and contact (such as dust). In particular, we verify the enclosure’s compliance with the protection ratings (IP codes).
The results obtained from leak tests determine the level of protection of the tested system based on any observed damage that could impact operation and safety (accumulation of water or dust).
Information on our leak tests
- Test dimensions range up to 2 meters and 800 kg.
- The product can be operated during testing, whether using glycol, compressed air, electricity, or other sources. It is possible to synchronize the control of the test equipment with the product’s operation.
- Several types of water can be used during testing: clear water, salt water, or sand water. These waters are at different temperatures depending on requirements.
- The addition of colorants is also possible in all water configurations, with the possibility of using different colorants in the case of consecutive tests.
Go further
- Inspect the durability of coatings and materials
- Verify functional waterproofing
- Observe aging under environmental constraints
For more information, contact our teams!