Ingress protection (IP) ratings indicate how well a device is protected against water/dust.
In the food processing industry, this is extremely important as many processors include washdowns as part of their cleaning and sanitation procedures.
The IP Ratings are two numbers that denote different types and levels of protection.
The first number refers to solid particle protection. The numbers go from 0 (no protection from particle ingress) to 6 (completely dust-tight). The second number refers to protection against liquid ingress. This number runs from 0 (no protection against liquid ingress) to 9 (can be sprayed down with high-power, high-temperature water jets without ingress).
EnSight Ingress Protection Ratings
At EnSight, ingress protection ratings apply to virtually any enclosure or mechanical device that will get sprayed down.
Different pieces of equipment are available in different IP Ratings, but IP67 and IP69k are the two most common we use.
IP67 means that a device is completely dust-tight and can be immersed in water up to 1m (3’ 3”) for up to 30 minutes. IP67-rated devices can still be washed down, even with hot water. These devices just aren’t made for extremely high-pressure, high-temperature sprays.
Some food processors include high-temperature spray-downs in their cleaning process. IP69k might be more fitting in those instances. In addition to indicating dust-tightness, this rating shows that the device/enclosure can be hit with high-power, high-temperature water jets up close without any harm.
IP69k is obviously the better rating to have on a device, but it’s not always feasible. For one, not all devices and enclosures are available with that rating. On top of that, the means to get a device to an IP69k rating can significantly increase the whole machine’s price, which can be prohibitive for processors with a tight budget.
IP Rating Misconceptions
Sometimes, food processors think that the IP Ratings indicate more than they do. IP Ratings only indicate how well a device is protected against particulate and liquid ingress. These ratings do not provide any information about what kind of chemicals can be used to clean it, or even how easy the device will be to clean. It also does not provide any details about direct food contact.
In addition, some food processors believe they need everything possible to be IP69k rated. As mentioned above, that’s not possible because some devices aren’t available in that rating. In addition, many processors don’t wash their machines down in a way that would require an IP69k rating. IP69k is only necessary if the processor is using high-pressure, high-temperature jets for washdowns-the rating indicates the pressure can be as high as 1,500 psi. Most processors don’t use hoses that powerful, and many don’t need to use the water at the temperature IP69k indicates it can handle.
With this in mind, processors might opt to save money on the machine and go with an IP67 Rating. The only big difference is that if they do wash machines down with high-temperature or high-pressure jets, they might have to shield/bag the device.
EnSight Processing Solutions
EnSight sales consultants and engineers have years upon years of experience helping food processors determine which IP Rating would fit their needs best. It starts with learning about their processes and products. In addition, location will play a large role. For example, a machine that will be in a primary product processing area would likely benefit from an IP69k rating, but one in a secondary area that doesn’t have direct contact can have a lower rating.
Regarding cleanability, EnSight designs and builds every machine solution to meet the harsh washdown processes of the food industry. Our machines are made hygienically for easy cleanability and to withstand caustic chemicals.
Staubli Robotics
EnSight works closely with Stäubli Robots on many robotics and integration projects. Stäubli is one of the only robotics manufacturers that offers hygienic robots. These robots are made specifically for the food industry and feature a unique coating to withstand caustic chemicals during washdown. In addition, they are IP69k rated except for the arm joints, which are IP67. To prevent water intrusion, Stäubli pressurizes the inside of the robot.
If you’re interested in learning more about ingress protection ratings and how EnSight creates hygienic solutions that will meet your cleaning standards, please contact our sales consultants.
