Big Green Book IP codes

[Sparky_Ben]

After searching for a while for infomation on what the IP codes mean in the BGB, i cant find any info on them, i have a question in my course material for the 2395 asking for IPXXD, IP2X, AND IPX4, now i would rather not know the answers to what degree each of these provide but just where to find the answers would be great.

thanks

 

[Sparky Ninja]

The BGB doesn't have a key reference page.

Appendix 5 gives some examples when you look at dust and moisture effects, alternatively you will see them mentioned throughout. Often in the special locations and with reference to 416.2

The attached gives some info...

 

[Octopus]

try this:

IP rating table

 

[Sparky_Ben]

much appreciated guys, is there anything in the bgb on these? also what if it is IPXXD? What would that mean as its not explained in the tables

 

[Sparky Ninja]

IPXXD is where the top of the enclosure allows entry of a test wire, but should not touch anything live within 100mm of penetration. It is not limited to 1mm size, but 100mm penetration.

IPXXD affords the same level of protection as IP4X, in theory

whilst IPXXB affords the same as IP2X, in theory

This is general understanding. However the IPXXB and IPXXD are subjected to more stringent testing with application of probes under test.

Think of it this way..

IP2X and IP4X represents degrees of protection for the live parts against the penetration of solids and liquids - it's protecting the live parts within.

However IPXXB and IPXXD is designed and tested to protected the person (or livestock) from accessing the live parts within - hence the use of probes and test fingers under their manufacture.

If you are protecting against dust and liquid penetration you use IP2X and IP4X etc, if its to protect people from touching live parts, it's the IPXXB and IPXXD.



I'm waffling again..

 

[spark 68]

There is some information on IP codes in the BGB APP5 on page 381/382 middle column, this translates the AD environment codes to the IP no. with a brief description.

 

[Sparky_Ben]

thanks for the help widdler, so basically that extra digit represnts the extra protection required for persons or livestock, touching the liveparts and the 2 digits eg IP4X is just for solids or liquids no human contact.

 

[spark 68]

For a better description see:

IP Code - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

 

[Sparky Ninja]

thanks for the help widdler, so basically that extra digit represnts the extra protection required for persons or livestock, touching the liveparts and the 2 digits eg IP4X is just for solids or liquids no human contact.

Yeah I would say that's a good summary.

 

[Echo]

Ben, you can get a little yellow book on testing, similar to the electrical good practice guide for about £7. I found this a great help when doing my 2391.

I think its produced by a training company in association with amicus/unite. Ill try find a link.

EDIT:
Technical Training Solutions - Unite (Amicus) Electricians Guide Books

They're both there. These are great books to carry around for reference and are highly recommended, I was first given on by JTL when I started my apprenticeship.

 

[Richard Burns]

This document gives a fairly good description of the differences from the 4 and D and 2 and B requirements.
View attachment IP Codes list.pdf