US IP Rating: NEMA 4 vs. NEMA 4X

As a newcomer to the explosion-proof business, are you confused about the following questions?

What are NEMA 4 and NEMA 4X?

Why do harsh environments need NEMA 4X certificate?

How can a product pass NEMA 4X?

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NEMA stands for National Electrical Manufacturers Association, which is an organization that sets voluntary industry standards for the manufacturing of electrical equipment and medical imaging equipment.

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NEMA 4X is a rating for outdoor electrical enclosures that are designed to protect equipment from damaging environmental conditions. The "X" in NEMA 4X indicates additional corrosion resistance.?Simply put, NEMA 4 is equivalent to IP66, while NEMA 4X is equivalent to IP66 + corrosion resistance.

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Challenge environments such as boats and offshore rigs are harsh to electrical equipment, as there is high humidity and salt water 24/7. NEMA 4X is one of the guidelines in this application.

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How can a product pass NEMA 4X corrosion test? Is it difficult?

According to UL50E clause 7.2, enclosures made of copper (including bronze and brass), aluminum, and stainless steel are considered to be outdoor corrosion-resistant.

To meet NEMA 4X corrosion resistance standards, the enclosure must also pass an additional 200-hour salt spray test. The results need to be compared to AISI 304 stainless steel which has been similarly tested. No pitting, cracking, or other deterioration severe than 304 stainless steel.

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