2022-06-16

IP69K automation components ensure protection

In automation, components must be able to stand up to harsh environments and be long-lasting. 

The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is an international standards organisation which publishes standards for all electrical, electronic and related technologies. Its Ingress Protection (IP) Code classifies and provides a guideline to the degree of protection provided by mechanical casings and electrical enclosures against intrusion, dust, accidental contact, and water. 

IP ratings give users more detailed information than vague marketing terms such as ‘waterproof’.

This guide focuses on the IP69K rating and lists, with examples, the types of IP69K rated automation components supplied by OEM.

IP69K – cracking the code

IP means Ingress Protection. 

6 means the component has complete protection against contact and is dust-tight. 

9K means that the component is protected against close-range high pressure, high-temperature spray downs.

Is IP69K the best level of protection?

IP69K is the highest level of protection at present. 

IP67, for example, only has protection against short term immersion and IP68 only has protection against submersion.

Which environments require IP69K rated components?

IP69K certification is required in environments which are aseptic and/or with high standards of hygiene and sanitation (for example, the food and beverage industry), or where aggressive oils, lubricants and dust are present (for example, the chemical and marine industries). 

CIP and washdown, with their high pressure and thorough cleaning, have the potential to corrode or damage components so IP69K rated components are essential. 

Some IP69K components we recommend and where they may be used

IP69K camera enclosure 

For harsh environments, IP Elements have developed an IP69K camera enclosure made of aluminium and stainless steel. This is a compact enclosure with a range of internal lengths and custom lengths.

This camera enclosure can be used in any environment where harsh chemicals are used or excellent hygiene standards are required. Its compact size means it can be used in tight spaces. An FDA approved version of this camera enclosure is available for food and beverage applications.

This enclosure can be used as part of the material traceability process, essential to the food and beverage industry.

This camera enclosure is available in IP69K upon request.

IP69K pressure measurement

Any pressure, flow and level monitoring equipment has to be IP69K rated as it is operated in industries such as food and beverage and chemical, where hygiene is essential.

The Suco pressure switch (0123/0123) becomes IP69K rated with an integrated connector.

The Definox Sorio Control Top is IP69K rated and can be used to control and command valves. These control tops can be adapted to all types of valves and also pigging systems.

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IP69K hygienic process equipment

Anderson Negele and Jungs Process Systems offer a range of hygienic equipment which is used for washdown and CIP cleaning. Most of the range is IP69K rated.

IP69K motors

Mini Motor’s IP69K units are fully sealed and suitable for very harsh environments. With stainless steel body components, they can be used in clean room applications together with submersible, high pressure high temperature washing, food machinery and any other application where a standard motor will not last.

OEM’s Mini Motor IP69K range covers stainless steel motors with planetary gearbox and worm gear motors.

The DOGA 321 series is a range of permanent magnet DC traction motors that offer IP69K protection. This motor provides a compact and low-noise solution for applications with exceptional environmental protection.

IP69K sensors

Miniature sensors can be used in any application but Datalogic’s IP69K rated miniature sensor meets the requirements for industrial washdown. This sensor can detect any variety of surface type and colour with good resolution and linearity. It is used, for example, to detect critical transparent objects in filling machines in the food industry. 

Datalogic’s photoelectric sensor with high resolution is able to detect opaque and small objects. Its housing ensures its IP69K rating.

IP69K encoders

Kubler have a range of encoders for different purposes. The products below have IP69K rating and are available in stainless steel.

Absolute multiturn encoders

With absolute encoders, a coded position value is assigned to each angular position in order to record the absolute position. Even after the encoder has been disconnected from the power supply, the unique position is still available. - Sizes from Ø 24 mm to Ø 70mm - Resolution up to 21 bit single-turn and up to 24 bit multiturn - Working temperature range from -40 °C to +90 °C - SIL2/PLd or SIL3/PLe versions available all TUV approved

Absolute single turn encoders

With absolute encoders, a coded position value is assigned to each angular position in order to record the absolute position. Even after the encoder has been disconnected from the power supply, the unique position is still available. - Sizes from Ø 24 mm to Ø 70mm - Resolution up to 21 bit single-turn and up to 24 bit multiturn - Working temperature range from -40 °C to +90 °C - SIL2/PLd or SIL3/PLe versions available all TUV approved

Draw Wire Encoders

Linear measuring system for position detection. The right draw-wire encoder for every application. From precise to compact to robust and cost-optimized. Kübler offers a comprehensive portfolio based on different measuring lengths. In addition to all common interfaces, innovative features such as integrated inclinometers or redundant sensors make the difference. From analogue to fieldbus – draw-wire mechanisms can be combined with a wide variety of Sendix encoders according to customer requirements.

Inclination Sensors

Precise and reliable detection, measuring inclination angles in the range from 0 to 360° even in harsh environments. Kübler inclinometers can be used for any conceivable application. Their robust housing, high degree of protection and wide temperature range contribute to reliable and long-lasting operation. Their flat design makes installation flexible and simple. Their high accuracy is a special feature because it remains stable even in the harshest environments and with temperature fluctuations. So you always have an optimal and reliable measurement in your plant or machine.

IP69K safety components

Safety switches by IDEM are IP69K rated as well as explosion-proof for the harshest environments. The stainless steel safety interlock switches are suitable for food applications as well as guard locking. Safety rope pull switches initiate the emergency stop command and provide rope pull protection for exposed conveyors.  

Datalogic’s IP69 rated stainless steel light curtains work to stop the machine when an object or person passes. For more demanding environments, IP69K protective housing can be used.

IP69K emergency stop devices 

Emergency stops are a reliable stop device where workers are nearby or physically working on the conveyor.

The range of IP69K machine stop and emergency stop mushroom heads, and push buttons are available in illuminated or non illuminated.

IP69K switches

Different switches are used for different functions that generate access and control to machinery. 

Trapped key interlocks are a way of isolating machinery before someone can enter a dangerous area. They are inherently reliable, as a person must go through the correct sequence to gain access.

Solenoid interlocks can be used as an alternative.

Non-contact safety switches detect when the door to a hazardous area has been opened and sends signals.

Selector switches are used to turn right, centre or left to open or close electrical contacts. They are available in IP69K.

IP69K cable conduits

Flexa’s cable conduits can be used to create a protective tubing system in plastic or metal, and with any common thread type. They are IP69K rated and approved for use in temperatures between -60°C and +600°C.

IP69K cable glands

Agro’s IP69K rated EMC cable glands, including the contact sleeve, are in nickel-plated brass. 

These cable glands can prevent condensation, fire or disturbances caused by electromagnetic waves.

We hope that this guide gives you an idea of the IP69K rated components that OEM Automatic can offer.

To enquire about any of the above products or find out more, email [email protected] or call  0116 284 9900.

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