Understanding how IP Ratings can help construction site operators make confident equipment decisions
In the demanding environments of hydrovac operations and construction sites, equipment durability is not just an advantage—it's a necessity. One key aspect that helps industry pros determine the robustness of equipment is the IP (Ingress Protection) rating. IP ratings are a standard part of the lexicon in industries that rely heavily on durable and reliable machinery and electronics, like construction and hydrovac. In this blog, we dig into what IP ratings mean; contrast the IP67 rating with IP66; and discuss why understanding these two ratings are crucial to supporting construction and hydrovac operators make sound equipment-decisions.
What Are IP Ratings?
IP ratings, established by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), are used to define levels of sealing effectiveness of electrical enclosures against intrusion from foreign bodies (tools, dirt, etc.) and moisture. Each rating includes two numbers: the first digit indicates the level of protection against solids and the second digit indicates the level of protection against liquids.
Decoding IP67 and IP66
Protection Against Solids: The '6' in IP66 and IP67
The first digit '6' in both IP66 and IP67 indicates that the device is dust-tight. This means complete protection against contact with dust; dust cannot enter the enclosure in any quantity that would affect the operation of the equipment. In the gritty, dust-laden environments of construction and hydrovac operations, this level of protection is essential to ensure the longevity and functional integrity of machinery controls and electronic systems.
Protection Against Liquids: The '7' in IP67 vs the '6' in IP66
While both IP66 and IP67 enclosures are designed to withstand dust, their capacity to handle liquid ingress differs significantly:
IP66: Enclosures rated at IP66 such as the Aarcomm Belly Pack can withstand powerful water jets. These are typically tested by being subjected to jets of water from a nozzle of 12.5mm diameter, directed at the enclosure from any angle without harmful effects.
IP67: Moving a step further, IP67 enclosures can not only handle powerful jets but are also protected against the effects of temporary submersion. IP67 devices like the Aarcomm Handheld can be submerged in water up to 1 meter in depth for up to 30 minutes. This specification is particularly vital for equipment used in areas where sudden and brief exposures to water are common, such as when operating in extreme rain storms, muddy construction sites or flooded trenches.
Why IP Ratings Matter in Harsh Environments
In the construction and hydrovac industries, equipment failure is both inconvenient and costly. A machine's vulnerability to dust and water can lead to malfunctions, requiring expensive repairs or replacements, and causing project delays. Understanding and choosing equipment with the appropriate IP ratings can mitigate these risks significantly. For instance, an IP67-rated device would be indispensable in scenarios such as stormy weather conditions or in hydrovac operations where equipment might be temporarily submerged.
Real-World Importance of Waterproof Technology
Consider a scenario in a hydrovac operation where sudden rainfall or a burst pipe could submerge equipment. Standard equipment might fail under these conditions, but an IP67-rated device would continue to operate, ensuring that the project moves forward without interruption. This reliability can save significant resources and time, and prevent operational hiccups.
Aarcomm's Waterproof Technology in Action
To see how well IP67-rated technology performs in real-world conditions, check out this video of Aarcomm's latest control system thriving even when fully submerged in water.
This demonstration not only showcases the device's ability to operate underwater but also highlights its robust construction, ensuring that even under extreme conditions, performance remains uncompromised.
For construction and hydrovac professionals, choosing the right IP rating is not just about compliance, but about confidence in the resilience and reliability of their equipment. An IP67 rating offers peace of mind, ensuring that even in the face of environmental challenges, the technology will not let you down. Understanding these ratings helps in making informed purchasing decisions that align with operational needs and environmental demands.
