IP ratings are a key descriptive measure of a product's ability to act as a barrier and prevent items or fluids from entering it. Products across multiple different industries need to fulfill the criteria of different IP ratings to function, whether they're devices that need to withstand the occasional exposure to dirt and debris or need to be resilient while underwater for long periods of time. The IP69K standard, specifically, refers to a product's ability to withstand high-temperature, high-pressure jet cleaning. Learn more about the rating and its value across multiple different industries, how to achieve this rating, and some of the most common applications.
What Is IP69K Rating?
IP69K ratings inform potential consumers about the ability of a product, such as an enclosure, to withstand certain environmental conditions by not allowing items to pass through it. This rating is commonly found on industrial and commercial goods that must be frequently cleaned through heavy or high-pressure washdown treatments. When a product has an IP69K rating, it indicates that the water or cleaning chemicals won't penetrate the surface or any seams, protecting the interior contents from exposure to water.
IP69K is the highest rating within this category of IP ratings, which means products that meet or exceed this standard offer the highest available level of certified protection. Not only can IP69K-rated products withstand cleaning processes with high-temperature and high-pressure water jets—the primary distinction of this classification—but it also indicates that the product will prevent dust and other environmental debris from passing through its surface or seams.
Importance of IP69K Rating
Commercial and industrial purchasers rely on industrial ratings and third-party standards to select goods that will meet their needs in different environments or applications. In many settings, such as medical laboratories, food processing facilities, and cosmetic goods manufacturing systems, the equipment needs to be cleaned frequently and to very particular standards. At the same time, the internal contents of the equipment, which may house goods, electronics, or sensitive components, cannot be exposed to moisture.
An IP69K rating expresses that the equipment satisfactorily prevents the ingress of high-temperature, high-pressure water jets and dust, making the equipment an excellent fit for facilities that need sanitized surfaces at all times.
Because this is such a critical function for maintaining safe and sanitized environments, being certified as an IP69K product is an extremely stringent process. The products must pass tests to ensure they can continue to provide a barrier against daily exposure to steam, chemicals, and high-pressure water jets without damage or failure.
Testing and Certification Process
The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and DIN 40050-9 publish and oversee the standards for IP69K ratings, and the scale is used around the world to test and certify products. To receive IP69K certification, products undergo a water intrusion test with strictly managed variables:
- The test product is rotated at a speed of 5 rpm.
- A sprayer hits the test products with a high-pressure, high-temperature stream of water from four to six inches away and at different angles for two minutes. The water is 176° F, has a pressure level of 1160-1450 psi, and flows at a rate of four gallons per minute.
- Testers then assess the test product for damage or harmful effects.
Products that pass this test that can be labeled as IP69K certified. ISO 20653:2013 is a similar standard. To qualify, products must be similarly robust under high-temperature, high-pressure water; they must also be dust-tight as described under the IP6X rating.
Applications of IP69K Rating
Manufacturers use the IP69K rating to produce enclosures and other goods that must withstand frequent cleanings and sanitizing processes. Some common applications include:
- Food and beverage processing equipment
- Chemical and pharmaceutical manufacturing equipment
- Petrochemical plants
- Waste treatment systems
- Stainless steel enclosures for LCD and LED screens: These products can provide a water-tight seal with hygiene-rated seals, IP69K-rated locks, and stainless steel cable glands to entirely protect the underlying screen, ensuring maximum performance for the longest possible lifespan.
Why Choose EDrive Actuators
EDrive is committed to creating high-quality products built to last. Our electromechanical actuators and supply of standard and customizable electromechanical parts are rated to comply with high standards. Since our first patented actuator reached the market over 40 years ago, we've been pioneering high-quality design and development that meets the unique design requirements and performance standards our clients need.
Start Your Order With EDrive Actuators Today
IP69X-rated goods withstand frequent cleanings so you can maintain high sanitary and hygiene standards for all of your facility's surfaces and products. Contact us today to learn more about our standard and custom product options, or request a quote to start your order.
