Connectors & cables T
here are many factors to consider when sourcing an electrical connector for use in an industrial application, but the
overarching principle is always the same - it should always be about finding the right tool for the job at hand, and finding a product that is going to be able to perform reliably in any conditions your work is likely to demand. Businesses that are selecting connectors
will have quite a few different metrics to consider in order to find the right product - pricing, form factor, compatibility and technical specifications, to name just a few examples - but few are likely to be more important than the connector’s IP (Ingress Protection) rating. This designation can be easy to overlook, but can make all the difference between a long-lasting solution and one that simply is not fit for purpose. Here, the team at Northern Connectors will
explore the basics of how the IP rating system works, and the importance of properly considering this crucial factor when selecting the right connector for your application.
What are IP ratIngs?
Developed and regulated by the International Electrotechnical Commission as part of its IEC 60529 standards, the IP ratings system is designed to provide a reliable benchmark of the ingress protection performance of an electronic product’s mechanical casing and electrical enclosure products. Its purpose is to ensure users can recognise at a
glance whether a component offers sufficient protection against dust, moisture, water or intrusion from other foreign objects, and therefore whether it will perform safely and reliably under challenging environmental conditions. A product’s IP rating will depend on its shape, design, fastening mechanism and cost, and will have a significant bearing on its suitability for use in extreme environments. The IP ratings system was developed to provide
a globalised standard measurement of ingress protection, based on rigorous testing by local and international regulators. The ratings are aligned with regional regulations in most territories, including the UK and EU, meaning that buyers will always be able to trust and understand an IP rating no matter where they are sourcing their components from.
Do not overlook IP ratIngs when selectIng
connectors 20 September 2021 Instrumentation Monthly
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