AS/NZS 60529 is a standard, which classifies and states the degrees of protection given by an enclosure. It is in line with the international standard IEC 60529; the approach it offers is a systematic one, which is used to describe the extent to which the enclosure is effective against such external factors as solid objects and water ingress.
Scope and Objectives
AS/NZS 60529 is intended to provide ratings for enclosures of electric equipment having a rated voltage of not more than 72.5 kV, and essentially it has the following in view with respect to protection:Protection Definitions
Protection is defined in this standard in the following three domains:- • Protection Against Access: Protection against injury from dangerous access to parts of the enclosure by people.
- • Protection Against Solid Objects: Ingress of solid foreign objects that may cause damage via harmful effects on the equipment.
- • Protection Against Water: Equipment’s protection from ingress of water that may have harmful effects on it.
Designation System
It provides a code system for classification of varying degrees of protection.Requirements and Testing
It indicates the specification requirements of every different protection class and the testing methods to meet the level of compliance.Key Features of the Standard
Classification and Coding
The IP Code serves to classify the degree of protection an enclosure affords. It consists of two numbers:- • The first number defines solid objects.
- • The second digit refers to resistance to water.
Example: A rating of IP65 means that it is dust-tight and protected against jets of water from any direction.
Optional Extensions
The second edition of IEC 60529 now makes an optional extension to the IP Code by additional letters A, B, C, or D. These letters shall be used in cases where the protection against access to hazardous parts is higher than indicated by the first numeral of the IP code.Updates in the Second Edition
The second edition of the standard builds upon feedback from the first edition and further clarifies the requirements. Overall, it is intended to maintain consistency with previous codes and make improvements to ensure clearer definitions of protection.Applicability
The standard provides a detailed classification system; however, equipment manufacturers should still be consulted regarding specific protection. The manufacturer can verify which degrees of protection apply to the equipment and how the protections are incorporated.Responsibility and Flexibility
The application of this classification to their standards shall be determined by technical committees. The committees shall ensure that the tests and requirements specified correspond to AS/NZS 60529, but may further specify additional requirements for safety.Practical Consideration
Enclosures and Equipment Protection
The standard covers not only complete enclosures but also empty ones, so long as they fulfil the general test conditions. The degree of protection selected should be appropriate to the equipment that is to be housed within.More Details
AS/NZS 60529 lacks the consideration of some factors in enclosure durability. It is further recommended that more factors in enclosure durability, including resistance to mechanical impacts, corrosion, and exposure to corrosive solvents, be considered. Designing the enclosure to withstand these states assures that they will be effective and durable throughout their expected lives.The AS/NZS 60529 standard is a significant document for classifying and understanding the degrees of protection by electrical enclosures. With the provision of clear definitions, designations, and tests to be carried out on an enclosure, it ensures the safety and reliability of the electrical equipment. All users, as well as manufacturers, should get conversant with this standard. To accomplish continuous optimal equipment performance and safety, users should constantly consult manufacturers for specific protection details at specified levels of protection.
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