At PSB GmbH, we recognize that workstations deployed in demanding industrial and medical environments require more than just advanced performance—they need robust protection against dust, water, and other environmental factors. The IP protection ratings (Ingress Protection) serve as a fundamental benchmark, enabling organizations to select workstation solutions that match the durability and safety requirements of their specific use cases. With over three decades of experience, our engineering teams specialize in adapting industrial PC systems to fulfill a full spectrum of protection classes, including extended temperature tolerance and IP65-certified enclosures. This approach ensures reliable operation, even under harsh conditions. We are committed to evaluating each project’s unique challenges and delivering workstations that uphold the highest industrial standards, without compromise. Our role as an independent, solution-focused partner means that every customer receives a system tailored exactly to their application.
What Does IP Protection Mean for Workstations?
The term IP protection or IP-Schutzart refers to the degree of protection provided by an enclosure against the ingress of solid objects (including body parts, such as hands and fingers), dust, accidental contact, and water. For workstations and Industrie-PCs, this is critical for ensuring reliable operation in demanding environments. The rating system, defined by standards such as DIN EN 60529 and ISO 20653, is expressed as “IP” followed by two digits — the first indicating solid particle protection, the second for water ingress. This coding system provides a universal reference for engineers and operators to select computers with the appropriate level of Gehäuseschutz, Fremdkörperschutz, and Feuchtigkeitsschutz.
For example, an IP65-certified workstation is dust-tight and protected against water jets, making it suitable for harsh industrial settings. This coding is essential for anyone choosing devices for settings exposed to dust, moisture, or potential spills.
IP Protection Classes and Their Importance for Workplace Computers
The IP protection classes (Schutzklassen) directly influence the operational reliability and lifespan of workplace computers in industrial environments. Each IP code provides specific protection levels:
- 0X: No protection
- IP20: Protection against solid objects > 12 mm (e.g., fingers); no moisture protection
- IP54: Dust-protected and protected against water splashes from any direction
- IP65: Dust-tight and protected against jets of water
- IP67: Fully dust-tight; protected against immersion in water (up to 1m)
Choosing the correct IP protection class determines whether a workstation is dustproof (staubdicht), splashproof (spritzwassergeschützt), or can even withstand temporary submersion. The DIN EN 60529 and ISO 20653 standards clearly define test procedures for these levels. For instance, high IP ratings (IP65, IP67) are vital for computers used in damp or heavily soiled environments such as food or chemical processing plants. For settings focused on electromagnetic compatibility, see more about EMC protected computers and safety.
Comparison of Common IP Codes for Workstations
| IP Code | Solid Particle Protection | Water Protection | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| IP20 | Finger-sized objects | None | Standard office environments |
| IP54 | Limited dust ingress | Water splashes | Workshops, warehouses |
| IP65 | Completely dust-tight | Low-pressure water jets | Industrial, outdoor |
| IP67 | Completely dust-tight | Temporary immersion | Wash-down, outdoor |
Typical Use Cases for IP-Protected Workstations
IP-protected workstations are used in various environments where Gehäuseschutz and reliable Feuchtigkeitsschutz are needed. Typical examples include:
- Industrial production lines: Exposure to dust, metal shavings, liquids, and spills make high-IP class workstations essential.
- Workshops and warehouses: Need for dustproof and splashproof devices to handle stressful operational conditions.
- Outdoor installations: Computers exposed to weather require robust IP65 or higher protection.
- Laboratories: Sensitive and silent workstations are useful in controlled environments prone to accidental spills; for ultra-quiet solutions, discover the noiseless laboratory computer systems.
Moreover, noise-sensitive environments may benefit from silent and powerful computers that combine IP protection with low-noise operation.
How to Choose the Right IP Protection Class for Your Needs
Step-by-Step Checklist
- Analyze the environment: Identify sources of dust, fluids, or solids that could impact your workstation.
- Review regulations and standards: Reference DIN EN 60529 and ISO 20653 for sector-specific requirements.
- Assess cleaning procedures: Frequent wash-down may require high IP ratings (IP65/IP67).
- Consider downtime costs: Higher protection can minimize maintenance and repair.
- Account for electromagnetic compatibility: In environments with high electromagnetic interference, supplement IP selection with EMC-optimized systems.
- Budget for future expansion: Choose scalable solutions that can cover potential future requirements.
For IT managers in the industrial sector, using this checklist ensures your IP-protected workstation meets both current demands and upcoming challenges. Pay attention to balancing Fremdkörperschutz and Feuchtigkeitsschutz with cost efficiency.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Overestimating needs: Selecting a higher IP class than necessary can result in unjustified costs.
- Underestimating cleaning practices: If regular wash-down occurs, ensure the chosen workstation withstands it.
- Neglecting the silent operation: In settings where low noise is essential, combine IP protection with silent system design; consider solutions labeled as silent industrial PCs.
- Ignoring standards: Always verify that the workstation is certified to applicable norms for your industry, such as DIN EN 60529 or ISO 20653.
Practical Examples: Workstations in Harsh Environments
Consider a chemical plant where dust-laden and moist air challenge even robust technology. Here, IP65 or higher workstation protection is crucial; computers are often built into stainless steel enclosures with tight cable entry points and sealed connectors. For example, a bottling facility experiencing frequent water spray cleaning requires workstations with full Feuchtigkeitsschutz and protection against pressurized liquids.
Another case is outdoor construction sites where IP67-rated computers survive rain, mud, and accidental drops into puddles. In contrast, for noise-sensitive environments, IP-protected, fanless designs with additional sound dampening offer both cleanliness and silence.
Modern laboratories choose workstations that are not only IP-protected and easy to disinfect but are also inaudible during sensitive measurement procedures. This combination of silence, cleanliness, and compliance with standards like ISO 20653 sets benchmarks for advanced workstation applications.
FAQ on IP Protection Classes for Workstations
Which IP protection class is best for industrial computers?
For harsh industrial environments, opt for IP65 or higher. This guarantees both staubdicht and spritzwassergeschützt operation, protecting internal electronics from dust ingress and powerful water jets.
Are IP67 workstations completely waterproof?
IP67-graded devices are protected against dust and temporary immersion in water up to 1 meter depth for 30 minutes. They are not, however, designed for continuous underwater use.
How does IP classification relate to the enclosure’s electromagnetic compatibility?
While the IP code defines physical ingress protection, electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) addresses protection from electrical interference. For a comprehensive solution, consider workstations with both IP and EMC certification.
What is the difference between DIN EN 60529 and ISO 20653?
Both are international standards for Gehäuseschutz. DIN EN 60529 is the classic definition, while ISO 20653 adds specific requirements for road vehicles and machinery in aggressive conditions.
Can soundproof or silent PCs also offer high IP protection?
Yes, silent industrial PC designs are available with high IP ratings, integrating fanless and sealed chassis for low noise and environmental resilience.
Selecting the appropriate IP-rated workstation is crucial for maintaining performance and reliability where environmental risks exist. At PSB GmbH, we build on a solid foundation of long-term expertise, bringing our technical knowledge and manufacturing flexibility to every customer project. Our in-house testing procedures, including comprehensive burn-in tests, ensure that each system not only meets but exceeds the expected protection class and durability. Clients trust us for solutions engineered for longevity, serviceability, and seamless integration into mission-critical environments. As requirements continue to evolve, our team remains committed to developing forward-thinking, standards-compliant workstations that support our partners’ operational success—today and into the future.
