Electrical enclosures in a dusty workshop face different conditions from those next to a washdown area. Both may need a dust-tight enclosure, but the amount of water exposure can change what you specify. That’s where the difference between IP65 and IP66 matters.

What do the two digits mean?

An IP rating describes protection against the ingress of solids and water. The first digit describes protection against solids and dust. The second describes protection against water under defined test conditions.

Both ratings offer the same level of dust protection. The difference is the water jet test. Immersion is covered by separate ratings, so check for the appropriate rating if the enclosure could be submerged. Read Schneider Electric’s guide to enclosure ratings.

What should you check for an outdoor or washdown enclosure?

Start with where the box will go and what it will be exposed to. A sheltered outdoor enclosure might face windblown dust and rain. A box on a workshop wall could be exposed to hose-down cleaning. A food-processing area may also expose the enclosure to cleaning chemicals. Check the manufacturer’s specifications for outdoor suitability, UV resistance and corrosion or chemical resistance as applicable.

Consider the finished assembly too. Cable glands, blanking plugs and door-mounted devices can affect the protection the enclosure achieves after installation. Give your supplier the cable entry details and check that the fittings and enclosure are compatible with the required rating.

What to include in your enclosure enquiry

Send the required height, width and depth, preferred material, mounting method and the number and size of cable entries. Include the required IP rating if it’s already specified. If you’re replacing an existing box, a photo and the original part number are also helpful.

Sourcing an electrical enclosure for a workshop, outdoor installation or control panel? Switch Electrical Supplies stocks electrical enclosures. If your project specifies Schneider Electric, include the part number or specification in your enquiry so we can check availability. View our electrical products · View our suppliers and brands · Request a quote