IPX9 Ingress Protection Testing

IPX9 Ingress Protection Testing simulates the effect of high-pressure and high-temperature water jets on electronic devices. The test is performed to ensure that electronic devices are protected against ingress of water, which can damage the internal components of the device, and lead to failure or malfunction. IPX9 testing is important for electronic devices that are intended to be used in harsh environments, such as in automotive, marine, or industrial applications.

The IPX9 test is a part of the IEC 60529 standard. IEC 60529 defines the degrees of protection provided by enclosures against the intrusion of solid objects, dust, water, and accidental contact. The standard is used by manufacturers, testing laboratories, and certification bodies to evaluate the degree of protection provided by enclosures for electronic devices.

How is IPX9 Ingress Protection Testing Completed

The IPX9 test involves subjecting the device under test to a high-pressure and high-temperature water jet from different angles. The test is performed using a specialized test rig that can generate water jets with a pressure of up to 100 bar and a temperature of up to 80 °C. The test rig is designed to simulate the harsh environmental conditions that the device may be exposed to in real-world applications.

The test procedure involves the following steps:

Positioning the device: The device is mounted on a rotating turntable that is positioned in the center of the test rig. The turntable rotates at a speed of 5 revolutions per minute.
Water jet preparation: The test rig is filled with water, and the water is heated to a temperature of 80 °C. The water is then pressurized to a pressure of 100 bar.
Water jet application: The water jet is applied to the device from different angles, using a specialized nozzle. The nozzle is moved around the device in a pattern that covers all sides of the device.
Test duration: The test duration is 30 seconds for each angle, and the test is repeated from four different angles.
Visual inspection: After the test is completed, the device is inspected visually to determine if any water has penetrated the enclosure.

What is the Objective of IPX9 IP Rating Testing?

To obtain certification for IPX9 Ingress Protection, the device must meet the following requirements:

No water ingress: The device must not allow any water to penetrate the enclosure during the test.
No functional failure: The device must continue to function normally after the test.
No damage: The device must not be damaged during the test.

If the device meets all the requirements, it can be certified as having an IPX9 rating.

How Does IPX9 Ingress Protection Testing Help Manufacturers?

Manufacturers rely on IPX9 certification for products intended to be directly exposed to high-pressure and high-temperature water jets on electronic devices. By designing products to meet this requirement, manufacturers will improve quality, reduce returns and improve competitiveness.

How to Obtain IPX9 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: