IP4X Ingress Protection Testing

IP4X testing is a type of ingress protection testing that measures the level of protection a product provides against solid foreign objects that are smaller than 1mm in diameter. The IP4X rating indicates that the product is protected against the entry of any object that is larger than 1mm in diameter and longer than 5mm in length.

The IP4X testing process involves subjecting the product to a series of tests to ensure that it meets the requirements for protection against solid foreign objects.

During the testing process, a wire probe is used to test the product’s enclosure for any openings that may allow the probe to enter. The wire probe has a diameter of 1mm and is 5mm in length. If the wire probe is unable to enter the enclosure, the product is considered to have passed the test and is given an IP4X rating.

The IP4X rating is an important consideration for product designers and manufacturers when developing products for use in environments where small solid foreign objects may be present.

This could include environments such as manufacturing facilities, laboratories, and automotive settings, where small particles of dust or other materials could cause damage to the product or interfere with its performance.

How is IP4X Testing Completed?

To test for IP4X, a test wire with a diameter of 1mm is used to probe the enclosure for any openings or gaps that could allow solid objects to enter. The wire is applied with a force of 1N to any opening or gap that is likely to permit the entry of a solid object.

The test is performed on all accessible surfaces of the enclosure, including the sides, top, bottom, and any doors or panels. The test wire is applied to any joints, seams, or other areas where openings or gaps are likely to occur.

If the test wire does not enter the enclosure or only enters to a depth of less than 1mm, the enclosure can be rated as IP4X. If the test wire enters to a depth greater than 1mm, the enclosure cannot be rated as IP4X.

In addition to the test wire, the enclosure is also examined visually to ensure that there are no openings or gaps greater than 1mm in any direction. This inspection is typically performed with the naked eye under normal lighting conditions.

How Does IP4X Testing Help Manufacturers?

IP4X testing evaluates the level of protection provided by an enclosure against the ingress of solid objects with a diameter greater than 1.0 mm. Here are some ways in which IP4X testing can help manufacturers:

Compliance

IP4X testing is often required by regulatory bodies and standards organizations to ensure compliance with safety standards. By testing their products and demonstrating compliance with these standards, manufacturers can avoid costly fines and legal issues.

Quality Assurance

By subjecting their enclosures to IP4X testing, manufacturers can ensure that their products meet the level of protection they claim to provide. This helps to establish trust with customers and can lead to increased sales.

Design Improvement

IP4X testing can also help manufacturers identify weaknesses or design flaws in their enclosures, allowing them to make improvements and provide better protection to their customers. This can lead to higher quality products and a stronger reputation for the manufacturer.

Competitive advantage

By achieving a higher IP rating, such as IP4X, manufacturers can differentiate their products from competitors and offer a unique selling point to customers.

How to Obtain IP4X Ingress Protection Certification for Your Device or Enclosure?

Overall, IP4X testing is an important part of product development and design, particularly for products that are intended for use in environments where small solid foreign objects may be present.

By ensuring that a product meets the IP4X rating requirements, manufacturers can provide their customers with a product that is safe, reliable, and suitable for use in a wide range of environments and applications.

Keystone Compliance is an accredited ingress protection test lab with a comprehensive scope that includes every single ingress protection test. We have significant experience in ingress protection testing and can test products in various sizes.

Expert IP Code Testing Facility

Our team provides quick turnaround times on quotes, short lead times on scheduling, and constant communication before, during, and after the test program is complete. Please contact us at ipcode@keystonecompliance.com or (724) 657-9940 to request a quote or learn more about our ingress protection expertise.

In addition to the IP4X rating, there are other ratings in the IP system that measure the level of protection against liquids, including the IPX1 rating, which measures protection against dripping water, and the IPX8 rating, which indicates that the product is fully submersible.

Learn more about other solid particle-related ingress-protection testing standards: