What is the required IP enclosure rating for panelboards located in machinery?

The required IP (Ingress Protection) enclosure rating for panelboards located in machinery is IP55. This rating indicates that the enclosure is protected against dust and can withstand low-pressure water jets from all directions.

In environments with machinery, where dust and moisture are common, it's essential for electrical panelboards to have adequate protection to prevent damage and ensure safe operation. An IP55 rating strikes a balance between offering protection against solid objects, such as dust, while allowing for some exposure to water without compromising the internal components.

Other ratings, such as IP44 or IP56, may not provide the same level of protection. IP44, while offering some dust resistance, does not assure complete protection against dust ingress, which is critical in machinery settings. IP56 provides a higher level of water resistance but could be over-engineering the requirements for typical machinery applications unless specified otherwise. The IP55 rating aligns with standard industry practices for protecting electrical enclosures in machinery from both dust and moisture.