IPX2 Ingress Protection Testing

IPX2 ingress protection testing is a dripping water test. It determines whether or not a device or enclosure can withstand exposure to dripping water coming from various directions. This ingress protection test is designed to simulate rainwater or water spray. These conditions are often encountered in outdoor settings.

The origin of IPX2 testing is the IEC 60529 standard. The two digits after IP signify the level of protection provided by the enclosure. The first number is the level of protection against solid particles. The second number indicates the level of protection against liquids. In both cases, the lower numbers generally have decreased levels of protection.

To summarize, the IPX2 testing process involves exposing an electronic device or enclosure to dripping water. This is considered light water exposure. The primary difference between IPX1 and IPX2 is the test angle. IPX1 is tested at one position with the unit or enclosure in its normal orientation. IPX2 is tested with the unit at an angle and in four different positions.

How is IPX2 Ingress Protection Testing Completed?

The actual IPX2 ingress testing involves exposing a device to water dropped at a rate of three millimeters per minute. This test lasts ten minutes in total but comprises of four 2.5-minute sections. The unit is tested in four positions of tilt. The positions are 15 degrees on either side of the vertical in two mutually perpendicular planes.

Upon completion of testing, the electronic device or enclosure is inspected. The test lab personnel will seek any signs of water penetration, such as discoloration, deformation, or other physical changes that may occur due to water ingress.

The acceptance criteria are essentially vertical falling drops of water shall have no harmful effects when the enclosure is titled at any angle up to 15 degrees on either side of the vertical.

If water does enter the enclosure, the water should not interfere with the designed operation of the equipment or impact safety. It should not deposit on insulation parts where it could lead to tacking along the creepage distances.

The water should not reach live parts that are not designed to operate when wet. For enclosures with drain holes, all water that entered should not accumulate. The water should drain without harming the equipment.

What is the Objective of IPX2 IP Code Testing?

The objective is to confirm that the electronic device’s internal components are protected from water damage. This aids in preventing potential electrical failures and malfunctions that may occur due to water exposure.

How Does IPX2 Water Resistance Testing Help Manufacturers?

The IPX2 waterproof test helps determine an electronic device’s level of water resistance. It helps manufacturers identify design flaws or weak points that may cause water to penetrate the device’s enclosure.

How Does IPX2 IP Rating Testing Help Consumers?

This testing protects consumers. IPX2 testing provides consumers with the confidence that electronic devices they purchase are water-resistant. They can comfortably use these devices in various environments without the risk of water damage.

Also, consumers who purchase IPX2-rated enclosures want to have confidence of the level of protection provided.

What Can Cause a Failure to IP Code Rating IPX2?

Unit and enclosure failures to IPX2 are often caused by poor seals. Either the material used is improper or the installation was not correct. Poor seals can be caused by design flaws, low-quality materials, or inadequate manufacturing processes.

Another factor we see with IPX2 products is greater expectations for the enclosure than what the standard calls for. The application of water per the standard is very specific. If the water is applied in a greater volume, different angle, or greater pressure, then it might fail even though it is IPX2 certified.

What Equipment Should Be Tested to Ingress Protection Rating IPX2?

Units typically tested to IPX2 water resistance testing include electronic devices such as lower-grade smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other handheld devices. This is a similar list to IPX1 since these units may be exposed to water.

However, items like electric razors, hair dryers, and curling irons are often tested to IPX2 as well. These devices typically have components that are sensitive to moisture. By testing to IPX2 manufacturers and consumers can be assured that these devices will continue to operate despite being exposed to dripping water.

Other candidates for IPX2 testing include some industrial equipment like power tools, generators, and pumps. Some medical devices are tested to IPX2 as well as household appliances. Outdoor lighting fixtures, security cameras, and products used by sports enthusiasts are also tested to IPX2.

IPX2 IP Code testing is generally best suited for any electronic devices that are frequently exposed to water droplets or rain.

How to Obtain IPX2 Ingress Protection Certification for Your Device or Enclosure?

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.

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.

Learn more about other water-related ingress-protection testing standards: