WHAT DOES IPX3 MEAN?
While IPX1 and IPX2 ratings offer protection against dripping water, an IPX3 rating offers protection against water sprays. This implies that an IPX3 device has a more robust and more water-resistant enclosure than IPX1 and IPX2 devices. However, even IPX3 devices are not resistant to water sprays from any angle.
For the IPX3 test, certified labs use either spray nozzles with counterbalanced shields or oscillating tubes. When a nozzle is used, the test is divided into two 5min segments (10min in total). The device is sprayed at angles up to 60° on a vertical axis. The water pressure is 50-150kPa, while the amount of water equals 10 l/min. After the first segment, the device is rotated (horizontally) by 90°, while all the other parameters remain the same.
When an oscillating tube is used, the device is left on a stand for 10mins, and the volume of water is 0.07 liters/min for each hole. The tube oscillates around the object down to a 60° angle (measured from the vertical axis). If water doesn’t enter the enclosure or enters it in amounts that are not big enough to interfere with the normal operation of the tested device, the device receives an IPX3 rating.
HOW WATERPROOF ARE IPX3 DEVICES IN PRACTICE?
Similar to IPX2 devices, IPX3 devices are suitable for everyday outdoor use. If you’re looking for IPX-rated devices like our laser welder for outdoor sports activities, IPX3 should provide decent protection. However, in practice, IPX-rated devices usually offer better protection against all kinds of liquids, not just water. So IPX-rated devices tend to be more durable than non-IPX devices.
While IPX3 is good enough for casual outdoor use, I wouldn’t recommend it for the shower or other activities that include water coming from all angles. Also, immersing or submerging an IPX3 device in water will most probably result in damage. I also wouldn’t use an IPX3 device around the pool and wouldn’t bring it with me to the beach. While it can probably survive a few splashes, there’s no guarantee. Remember, the device is resistant to spraying water, but not to sprays coming from any direction.
What is IPX3 waterproof?
Answer: IPX3 waterproof is a misleading and confusing phrase. IPX3 doesn’t mean waterproof. Waterproof is a marketing term usually used for devices with IPX7 and IPX8 ratings.
- Waterproof is not the official term recognized by the organizations (IEC and ISO) that created IP standards. Instead of using these vague and confusing terms, IP standards define the exact criteria a device must meet to receive an IP rating.
- In the case of IPX3, a device must remain fully operational after being sprayed for 10 mins from directions ranging from -60° to +60° (measured from a vertical axis).
- IPX3 rating basically means that a device can survive light rain for 10mins.