The encoder is a precision sensor used for position, speed or acceleration control in industrial automation systems. We can find encoders in many industrial sectors: lifting, packaging, medical, wind, textile, steel, cranes…
For most applications we can say that encoders with the IP69K protection classification are not necessary. Hohner Automation offers a wide range of high-performance products with degrees of protection IP65 and IP67, which make them suitable to withstand most aggressive environments found in the industry. But there are industrial sectors, such as the Food Industry, in which equipment must be able to withstand high pressure / steam washes, as well as being resistant to different cleaning agents and meeting hygienic design requirements. In these cases, it is necessary to use encoders with the highest degree of protection IP69K and in turn provide a solution that meets the requirements of the industry.
IP Protection Degrees
The IP protection degrees refer to the international standard CEI 60529, which indicates the level of protection of electrical or electronic equipment against the entry of external agents: dust or water. The first digit informs about the protection of the equipment against the entry of solid elements, being “1” (protection against large objects) and “6” (protection against small dust particles). Similarly, the second digit refers to the protection of the equipment against the ingress of liquids, being “1” (protection against falling water) and “8” (prolonged immersion). As a general rule, we can affirm that the higher the IP degree, the more protected and isolated the equipment is against the entry of external agents.
However, it was observed that the most restrictive rating, IP68, did not contemplate pressure cleaning on equipment used in the Food Industry. For this reason, the German standard DIN 40050-9 generated the new IP69K classification that establishes regulated test criteria.
IP69K encoder test
To obtain the IP69K rating, products must withstand a pressure cleaning test. The test consists of spraying the product with water at 80ºC with a pressure of 80 to 100 bar and a flow rate of 14 to 16 l / m, with a nozzle placed between 25 and 175 mm, at different angles (0º, 30º, 60º and 90º) for 30 seconds for each position.
Hohner Automation SERIE 10K encoders have an IP69K protection rating. Made of AISI316 stainless steel, they include a specially designed seal that guarantees maximum protection against high pressure cleaning devices, and they are ECOLAB certified (resistant to aggressive detergents and disinfectants). In addition, the 10K Series includes laser marking and is designed according to EHEDG (European Hygienic Engineering & Design Group) criteria. IP69K encoders are ideal for use in all types of applications in the Food Industry: Food and beverage bottling, conveyor belts, labeling machinery …
Hohner Automation is the manufacture and commercialization leader in Spain of optical encoders -incremental and absolute-, magnetic encoders, linear measurement devices and accessories. From its headquarters in Breda (Girona), it exports in more than 30 countries and specializes in offering tailor-made solutions adapted to the needs of each client.
Find out more about Hohner Automation’s IP69K encoder solutions at: https://www.encoderhohner.com/en/ip69k-encoders/
Sergi Ferrer
Mechanical engineer
Hohner Automation
