Loadcells (and other products) are often rated with a IP## or NEMA# rating that tells you what their ability to withstand moisture and dust ingress, this short blog tells you more about the ratings.
The IP Code (or International Protection Rating, sometimes also interpreted as Ingress Protection Rating) consists of the letters IP followed by two digits and an optional letter. As defined in international standard IEC 60529, it classifies the degrees of protection provided against the intrusion of solid objects (including body parts like hands and fingers), dust, accidental contact, and water in electrical enclosures.
The standard aims to provide users more detailed information than vague marketing terms such as “waterproof”.
What do the NEMA Ratings mean?
The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) is a US Manufacturers Organization which actively promotes standardized product specifications for electrical apparatus. While NEMA does not actually test products, it establishes the performance criteria for enclosures intended for specific environments.
As an example Straightpoint loadcell products, where stated, are rated either:
IP65 (NEMA 4X) IP67 (NEMA 6) or IP68 (NEMA 6P)
IP65 Enclosure – IP rated as “dust tight” and protected against water projected from a nozzle.
IP67 Enclosures – IP rated as “dust tight” and protected against immersion.
IP68 Enclosures – IP rated as “dust tight” and protected against complete, continuous submersion in water.