In industrial production and in highly sensitive areas such as pharmaceuticals, food processing or chemicals, the reliability and durability of industrial computers is crucial. These devices not only have to withstand extreme environmental conditions, but also meet the highest hygiene requirements. This is precisely where industrial computers with a high IP protection rating come into play – especially those that are certified to IP69K and are therefore protected against dust, water and even high-pressure cleaning.
What does an IP protection class mean?
The IP code (Ingress Protection Code) is an international standard that indicates how well an enclosure is protected against the ingress of foreign bodies and water. The code consists of two digits:
Protection against foreign bodies – First digit
Protection against water – second digit
0
No protection
0
No protection
1
Protection against large bodies (e.g. back of the hand, ≥50 mm)
1
Protection against vertically falling dripping water
2
Protection against fingers (≥12.5 mm)
2
Protection against dripping water on slopes up to 15°
3
Protection against tools (≥2.5 mm)
3
Protection against water spray (up to 60° angle)
4
Protection against wires and thin objects (≥1 mm)
4
Protection against splashing water from all directions
5
Dust-protected (limited ingress possible)
5
Protection against water jets from all directions
6
Dust-tight (no ingress of dust)
6
Protection against strong water jets
7
Protection against temporary submersion
8
Protection against permanent submersion
9K
Protection against high-pressure or steam jet cleaning (extended DIN standard
Typical examples of IP classes
IP20
Protection against fingers, no protection against water – typical for indoor areas
IP54
Limited dust protection, protection against splash water
IP65
Dust-tight and protection against water jets – suitable for outdoor areas
IP67
Dust-tight, protection against temporary submersion
IP68
Long-lasting immersion
IP69K
High-pressure cleaning with hot water and steam
How is IP protection tested?
The test procedures and requirements for IP protection classes are internationally standardized by IEC 60529. The tests simulate typical environmental conditions in which a device could be used – such as dust chambers, water jets or immersion baths.
Industry requirements and standards at a glance
Industrial Panel PCs with IP69K protection are in demand in industries that place the highest demands on hygiene, protection and cleanliness. Depending on the industry, special standards and regulations apply that govern the hygienic design and choice of materials:
Food industry
Operating panels and controls in packaging and filling systems must be resistant to cleaning agents and be able to be cleaned quickly and without leaving any residue . DIN EN 1672-2, which defines the requirements for the hygienic design of machines in food processing, plays a central role in this.
Pharma & medical technology
Devices used in cleanrooms and laboratories must reliably withstand sterilization processes and ensure a germ-free environment. Industrial computers with IP69K protection meet these strict hygiene requirements and are resistant to chemical disinfectants.
Important standards and directives in this area include
- The principles and guidelines of Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP)
- ISO 14644, which defines standards for cleanrooms and contamination control
Chemical industry
In this area, protection against aggressive substances and moisture as well as robust controls are essential for reliable operation under extreme conditions.
Important standards are:
- ISO 14644 – Standards for cleanrooms and contamination control
- ISO 14159 – Safety of machinery – Hygiene requirements for the design of machinery
Automotive and mechanical engineering
Robust operating panels and controls must be able to withstand dirt, oil and high-pressure cleaning, as is the case with painting robots or assembly systems, for example.
Important standard:
- DIN EN ISO 13849 – Safety of machinery – Safety-related parts of control systems
Why are washable industrial computers so important?
Industrial computers in areas such as food production or pharmaceuticals must be regularly treated with cleaning agents and disinfectants. An ordinary device would quickly be damaged or become a breeding ground for germs. This is where industrial PCs that have been specially developed for such harsh environments come into their own:
- Hygienic design: without corners to make cleaning easier and avoid dirt deposits
- Versatile operation: can also be operated with gloves or in wet conditions
A solution that sets standards – for maximum hygiene and reliability
The Rocksmart RSC1000-series are more than just an industrial PCs – it is your sophisticated complete solution for demanding environments. Whether in food processing, the pharmaceutical industry or in hygiene-critical areas: The hygienic stainless steel design, state-of-the-art touch technology, individual configuration options and uncompromising IP69K tightness make it the ideal platform for your processes. Developed for 24/7 use, the Panel PC fits seamlessly into existing infrastructures – reliable, powerful and easy to clean.
Conclusion
Washable industrial computers with a high IP protection rating – in particular IP69K – are indispensable for hygiene-critical and harsh areas of application. They combine robustness, ease of cleaning and long-term operational reliability. Whether in the food processing, pharmaceutical, chemical or mechanical engineering industries, these specially developed devices not only meet industry-specific standards such as DIN EN 1672-2 or ISO 14644, but also make a significant contribution to process reliability and compliance with legal requirements. If you are looking for durable, hygienic and reliable technology, there is no way around industrial-grade, washable panel PCs.
You can find more information about our Panel PCs here: https://www.werocktools.com/industrial-computers/stainless-steel-industrial-panel-pcs/
Please contact us at https://www.werocktools.com/contact/ for a non-binding consultation or individual queries – we will support you in finding the right solution for your application.
