IP Codes Explained

What is an IP code?

IP stands for Ingress Protection: an international standard indicating how well a device is protected against dust and moisture. The code always consists of two digits:

• The first digit represents protection against solid objects (such as dust or dirt).
• The second digit indicates the degree of protection against moisture or water.

The higher the digit, the better the protection.

Why are IP codes so important?

An incorrect IP rating can lead to failures, damage, or even production downtime. Especially in demanding environments, it is crucial that industrial hardware is resistant to moisture, dust, dirt, or intensive cleaning, for example.

With the right IP code, you avoid disruptions and extend the service life of your devices. That is why FORSIS delivers hardware precisely tailored to your working environment: from dustproof to fully waterproof and always reliable.

IP protection at FORSIS: always matched to your environment

At FORSIS, we have various panel PCs. Each with its own IP code and therefore each resistant to specific conditions:

For hygiene-sensitive environments: EXPERT Series (IP69K)

In sectors such as the food industry or pharmaceuticals, a high protection class is essential. The FORSIS EXPERT Series is therefore compliant with IP69K on the front as standard. This means:

• Internal seals against moisture and dirt
• Adhesive techniques and pressure equalization valves for a stable internal climate
• Sealed screw connections and heating options down to –20 °C

This makes this panel PC resistant to high-pressure and steam cleaning, resistant to fats, blood, oil, and cleaning agents, and safe to clean daily without risk of damage. In addition, the connection side can also be built to IP69K, depending on the configuration. This provides all-around complete protection.

For dusty industrial environments: PROFI Series (IP65)

In production environments where dust, oil, or dirt play a role, our PROFI Series is the reliable choice. These industrial PCs are:

• IP65 on the front as standard: dustproof and resistant to moisture
• Configurable up to IP54 on the rear, depending on your situation

With this protection, the PROFI panel PC is a robust and efficient solution for daily operations.

When is a high IP protection class required?

In production environments where dust, moisture, steam, or cleaning agents are present, a high IP rating is essential. Such as in the food industry, pharmaceuticals, cold storage, or heavy industry. Devices there must be resistant to more than a splash of water or a little dust. A high IP protection class is then not an unnecessary luxury, but a prerequisite for reliable hardware in challenging environments.