Enclosure Ingress Protection
Performance standards for equipment durability specify the ability of a housing to resist high pressure and high temperature water jets. Achieving ip69k washdown qualification involves testing the device with a nozzle that delivers water at pressures up to 100 bar. This rating is essential for sensors used in the food and beverage industry where hygiene is a priority.
Ingress Test
Testing procedures require the water to be sprayed from four different angles while the device rotates on a turntable. The water temperature is held at 80 degrees Celsius to simulate the harsh cleaning cycles used in processing plants. No water must penetrate the seals or the cable entry point during the duration of the test.
Pressure Impact
Mechanical force from the concentrated jet can damage delicate membranes or push seals out of place. Housings are often made of 316L stainless steel to withstand the impact and the corrosive cleaning chemicals. Smooth surfaces prevent bacteria from growing in crevices or mounting holes.
Seal Integrity
Specialized gaskets and overmolded cables provide the final defense against moisture entry. These materials must remain flexible across a wide range of temperatures to maintain the seal over the life of the product. Sensors that pass this test are suitable for the most demanding environmental conditions.