What are the Protection Ratings of Industrial Computers?
In today’s industrial world, the reliability and durability of equipment are paramount. Industrial computers, which are at the heart of many critical operations, must withstand often demanding environments. This is where IP/NEMA protection ratings for industrial PCs become so important. These classification systems define the levels of protection that enclosures offer against various types of intrusions, ranging from dust to liquids.
Understanding the meaning of these ratings is essential for choosing an industrial computer that is suitable, capable of maintaining its performance in sometimes hostile conditions. By exploring the different protection ratings, we understand why they are essential to ensure the longevity and efficiency of industrial computers.
The IP Standard
The IP protection rating is a crucial standard in the categorization of industrial computers, ensuring their resistance and durability in demanding environments. Established by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) (IEC) and adopted by the European standard EN 60529, this rating classifies electrical equipment according to its level of protection against the intrusion of solid bodies and liquids.
The format of the IP rating is represented by two numbers, sometimes accompanied by a letter. The first number, ranging from 0 to 6, indicates protection against solid bodies like dust. A rating of 6 means that the device is completely dust tight.
The second number, ranging from 0 to 9K, specifies protection against liquids. For example, a rating of 9K indicates resistance to high-pressure and high-temperature cleaning, often required in industries where hygiene standards are strict, such as the food or pharmaceutical industries.
Choosing an industrial computer with the appropriate protection rating is essential to ensure the reliability and longevity of the equipment in specific conditions. Whether it’s to resist dust in a workshop or frequent washings in a food factory, the IP rating provides a clear reference to identify the necessary level of protection.
The NEMA Standard
The NEMA classification, established by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association, is a reference standard in the United States for evaluating the protection of electrical equipment in various environments. Unlike the IP rating, which focuses on protection against the intrusion of solids and liquids, the NEMA classification encompasses a wider range of protections, including, among others, resistance to corrosion.
The NEMA classifications are expressed by numbers and sometimes letters, indicating the level of protection offered. For example, a NEMA 1 enclosure offers protection against solid particles, while a NEMA 4X enclosure is not only waterproof but also resistant to corrosion. Whether it’s dusty workshops, chemical plants, or areas where equipment is subjected to frequent and rigorous cleaning, the NEMA standard is an important consideration when purchasing industrial PCs.
Although the IP and NEMA systems are not identical, they share strong similarities. This allows for interchangeable use when classifying enclosures and accessories in demanding industrial environments.
IP/NEMA Protection Ratings for Industrial PCs : How to choose the Right One?
To make an informed decision on the most suitable industrial PC enclosure for your environment, consider the following scenarios:
▪ Will the PC be exposed to liquids or corrosive chemicals for extended periods during regular use or cleaning procedures ?
If that is the case, opt for a enclosure equipped with our NEMA 6P / IP69K SealConnectTM system, specifically engineered to withstand high-pressure, high-temperature washdowns — including steam.The housing is built from corrosion-resistant stainless steel (304 #4) and features M12 sealed connectors for maximum ingress protection and long-term durability.
▪ Will the computer be in a dusty or dirty environment, potentially exposed to occasional liquids or splashes ?
In this case, choose a model compliant with NEMA 4X/IP66 standards, ensuring protection against dust, dirt, and water ingress, or higher standards. Depending on your configuration needs, choose between our CubeConnect™ or OneConnect™ systems — both engineered to maintain a sealed and reliable enclosure even in demanding industrial settings.
▪ Will the computer be used in a dusty or dirty environment without exposure to liquids ?
If so, select a NEMA 1 category PC. It will comply with the IP50 waterproofing standard, thus protecting against debris, dust, and dirt.
Symcod: Performance and Durability in Demanding Environments
With over 30 years of experience, Symcod designs and manufactures industrial PCs built for reliability, durability, and performance — even in the harshest industrial environments.
Our TermiCom™ range, which includes waterproof PCs, all-in-one units, box PCs, and industrial monitors, is engineered to meet a wide range of protection standards — from IP50/NEMA 1 to IP69K/NEMA 6P.
In the industrial world, protection ratings are far more than just numbers. They define the long-term survivability and efficiency of your hardware — directly impacting uptime, safety, and return on investment. Understanding the IP/NEMA protection ratings for industrial PCs helps ensure that your equipment is perfectly matched to the demands of your operation.
At Symcod, our mission is clear: to enhance the productivity and profitability of our clients by delivering rugged, dependable, and customizable solutions — proudly made in Canada.
Every environment is unique. Your solution should be too.
Talk to a Symcod expert and find the most reliable equipment for your critical operations.
