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IPX5 and IPX6 classify resistance to direct, pressurized water streams, distinguished by the nozzle size and flow rate used during testing

Second Characteristic Numeral 5 and 6: Pressurized Water Jet Tests

Degrees IPX5 and IPX6 define the enclosure’s capability to withstand forceful water jets, simulating conditions like hosing down. Both tests utilize a standard hose nozzle (Figure 6) and require spraying the enclosure from all practicable directions.

  • IPX5 (Protected against water jets): This test uses a nozzle with an internal diameter of 6.3 mm. The required delivery rate is 12.5 l/min ± 5%. The core of the stream should be approximately 40 mm in diameter at 2.5 m distance from the nozzle.
  • IPX6 (Protected against powerful water jets): This test utilizes a larger nozzle with an internal diameter of 12.5 mm. The delivery rate is significantly higher at 100 l/min ± 5%. The core of the stream should be approximately 120 mm in diameter at 2.5 m distance.

The water pressure is adjusted solely to achieve the specified delivery rate. For both levels, the nozzle must be positioned between 2.5 m and 3 m from the enclosure surface.

The duration of the test is determined by the surface area of the enclosure: 1 minute per square meter of enclosure surface area likely to be sprayed, with a minimum duration of 3 minutes. The acceptance criteria stipulate that water projected in jets shall not have harmful effects, meaning ingress must not interfere with safety, cause tracking, or reach parts not designed to operate wet.

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