Appleton :: CSA vs. IP: What's the Difference?
The growing number of hazardous location products with IP ratings has created confusion about the differences between the IP rating system and traditional CSA ratings. Your customers need a thorough understanding of both systems to select the right product for an application. Here is some clarification of the subject:
An overview of typical CSA ratings: The most prevalent CSA ratings for enclosed devices are 3R, 3, 4, and 4X. These ratings are assigned based on the results of simulation tests detailed in UL 50.
- CSA 3R enclosures provide outdoor protection against rain, sleet, and damage from external ice formation.
- CSA 3 enclosures provide the same protection as NEMA 3R, plus protection against windblown dust.
- CSA 4 enclosures afford protection against windblown dust and rain, splashing water, hose-directed water, and damage from external ice formation.
- CSA 4X enclosures provide the same protection as CSA 4, plus protection against corrosion and gasket deterioration over time.
Are IP and CSA ratings equal?
CSA and IP ratings are NOT equal. For instance, it is commonly believed that IP65 is equivalent to CSA 4X. This is not the case. IP tests (described in IEC 529) measure protection against water and solids ingress. CSA 4X measures protection against water, dust, damage from ice formation, corrosion, and gasket aging. There are similar misconceptions for other CSA and IP ratings.
"How does knowing the difference affect me?"
We can help you be sure that your customers are making "apples to apples" comparisons when making their decisions. Misunderstood ratings can mean the purchase of an underrated product, or a product choice that is overkill for an application.
For innovative products that make code compliance easier, the answer is Appleton. Contact us.
The UniCode® Disconnects: Your One-Stop Connection to IEC and CEC® Compliance
Here's the latest addition to Appleton's growing UniCode® family: Factory-sealed, hazardous location disconnects for IEC
and CEC compliance in a single product.
Keep it simple. One UniCode® Disconnect for all your global load disconnect and motor control applications means fewer specification headaches, easier maintenance routines, and simpler ordering and inventory management.
Do your worst. Each factory-sealed, silicone-gasketed enclosure meets CSA 3, 3R, 4, 4X, and IP 66. Inside and out, our epoxy powder coat finish and stainless steel hardware shrug off corrosives. There's even a fused model, to prevent overcurrent damage.
A cinch to install, operate, and maintain. Easy access, stainless steel mounting feet and two captive cover bolts simplify installation and maintenance. A factory-sealed switch eliminates the need for pouring conduit seals. And, operator safety is enhanced with a non-conductive, padlockable bi-color switch handle for power status indication at a distance.
The listings you need. Class I, Division 2, Groups B, C, D; Class I, Zone 1 IIC T3A; Class II, Division 1, Groups F, G; Ex de IIC T3; UL Listed for CSA 4X and IP66.
To learn more about how UniCode® Disconnects can simplify IEC and CEC compliance for your customers, contact
Appleton.
