IP20 Rating Meaning (And Where To Use IP20 Enclosures)

Before moving towards IP20, you should know what is an IP rating? Because it will make it easy for you to understand IP20.

Well, IP (Ingress Protection) rating is the standard parameter set by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). It is used to assess the type of electrical equipment on the basis of its safety levels against the ingress of dust and water.

So, now you will learn about the meaning of IP20 rating and the reasons to select it. Moreover, you will also get an idea about its applications and some limitations.

Basic Meaning of IP20 Rating

Commonly in IP ratings, the first digit shows the protection against dust and the second digit is the resistance against water. So, in IP20:

• The first digit ranges from 0-6, so 2 means that it has resistance against dust particles greater than 12.5mm.
• Its second digit is zero, which explains the zero resistance for water.

Generally, you can say that IP20-rated products are touchproof; however, they have no protection against water.

3 Major Applications of IP20

As the IP20 enclosures are used for basic protection, therefore, they are commonly used indoors. The following are the major uses of these enclosures in everyday activities.

Indoor Use

You can use these devices ideally for indoor use because of their human safety nature. Many electronic items have IP20 enclosures, including chargers, wall switches, LED lights & some kitchen appliances.

These enclosures are perfect for indoor usage, where they are protected against large particles. However, water protection is not much needed indoors.

Lighting

The lights usually installed in living rooms, kitchens and bedrooms are IP20-rated. You can use these lights where moisture is not an issue. These lights consume less energy and are cost-effective as well.

Industrial Equipment

Industries always prefer lightweight and easy-to-install devices. Therefore, IP20-rated enclosures are frequently used in industrial settings. Some control panels and other electrical devices can be used in offices where water is not a major concern. You can also utilize these devices for getting accidental touch safety.

Why Should You Choose IP20 Products?

Below we will see the reasons why you should use the IP20 rated cases.

Cost Cutting

Because they have no protection against moisture and water, the IP20 enclosures have lower manufacturing costs. You can get these devices at cheaper rates compared to the high-rated equipment.

If your products do not have any direct exposure to moisture, then you should opt for this cost-efficient model.

Easy to Use

You can easily install these devices at your workplace and home without any expertise. Their lightweight and simple looks make them perfect for common usage.

Safety

IP20-rated products provide complete human safety while handling these devices. You don’t need to insert your finger in it because it is more than 12mm in size. You can handle these types of equipment without any extra precautionary measures.

Compliance and IEC Standards

You can trust 100% the standards set by the IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission). IEC assures that IP20 products are protected against human touch and larger particles. This makes them completely safe for home and industrial uses.

Limitations of IP20 Enclosures

Below you will know about the shortcomings of IP20 cabinets. You should avoid using these in the following places.

Outdoor Use

You can not use these IP20 enclosures outside, where water is the major factor. You have to get proper protection against water and moisture before installing them outdoors. You even have to be cautious while installing IP20 products in your bathrooms because of excessive moisture.

Moisture and Wet Environment

You should not use these devices in areas where moisture is a concern. For example, you are not able to install it without protection in the basement, laundry areas, garages and other such sensitive areas. There are some other options, like IP44 and IP65, for use in outdoor and wet environments.

FAQs

Can I Use IP20 in a Bathroom?

No, you should not use IP20 rated electrical devices in the bathroom. The reason is the presence of moisture there, which can damage these products upon contact with water.

Is IP20 Steam Proof?

The IP20 gadgets are not steam proof. These products have no resistance against water vapours. You can only use them in dry conditions in order to protect from dust particles.

Are IP20 Lights Fire Rated?

Previously, IP20 lights were not fire rated. However, some IP20 fire-rated LED downlights are available in the market. These are commonly used in living rooms, false ceilings & inside soffits.

We also recommend you can explore our IP65 enclosures because they are fireproof and used by industry experts.

Is IP20 Suitable For Kitchen?

Yes, there is no issue in using IP20 light fixtures in the kitchen. However, you should avoid its installation near the sink area and above the cooktop.

Conclusion

Now you have a complete understanding of the IP20 rating. It’s important for buyers to check the IP rating before purchasing any electrical equipment. Because this determines where the device can be safely used, indoors or outdoors.

Moreover, we manufacture all types of electrical enclosures in China. You can share your requirements with our team and we will customize the enclosure for your business.