Washdown in Food Equipment: IPX6 Is Only Half the Requirement

Food processing equipment is washed daily with hoses and chemicals. IPX6 covers the water, but hygiene standards also demand that the machine can be cleaned, which is a design property rather than a rating.

Hygienic geometry

No horizontal ledges, no exposed threads, no gaps where product can accumulate. Slopes drain to a defined low point, and joints are welded and ground rather than bolted with gaskets. An IPX6 enclosure with a dirt trap still fails an inspection.

Materials

Stainless steel of the right grade for the cleaning chemicals, food grade elastomers, and no painted surfaces that can chip. Chlorinated cleaners attack 304 stainless over time; 316 is often specified for that reason.

Testing beyond the rating

Test with the actual cleaning agent at the actual temperature and pressure. A machine that passes IPX6 with clean water may fail in service because the detergent attacks the gasket. Where steam is used, IPX9K is the relevant test.

Related technical notes

• Choosing an IP Test Laboratory: Six Things to Verify
• Drip, Spray and Splash: Three Water Levels People Mix Up
• Cable Glands and Connectors: The Weak Point in Every IP Rating