In complex industrial environments or areas exposed to environmental elements, choosing the correct protection rating for electrical systems is a strategic decision. Busbar trunking systems with IP66 and IP68 ratings provide a guarantee of continuity, safety, and durability.
In this article, we examine what these ratings mean, which applications require elevated protection, and why Graziadio’s Isolsbarra technology is the ideal solution for outdoor installations or aggressive environments.
What is the IP protection rating?
The IP (Ingress Protection) rating is a standard defined by IEC 60529 that specifies the level of protection provided by an enclosure against intrusion of solid objects and liquids
It consists of two digits:
First digit: protection against solid objects
- The first digit (ranging from 0 to 6) indicates the level of protection against dust and solid bodies.
Second digit: protection against liquids
- The second digit (ranging from 0 to 8) specifies the enclosure’s resistance to the ingress of water and other liquids.
Practical examples:
- IP66 ensures complete protection against dust ingress and strong water jets from any direction.
- IP68 offers the same dust-tight performance, plus the ability to withstand prolonged immersion in water at depths and durations defined by the manufacturer.
Why IP66 and IP68 matter in busbar trunking systems
In electrical distribution systems—especially when installed outdoors or in demanding environments—the protection rating is a crucial factor.
Typical applications
Graziadio’s busbar systems with Isolsbarra technology provide high protection levels (up to IP68), specifically designed for:
- Outdoor installations without the need for additional protective enclosures
- Environments with high humidity, dust, or flood risk
- Areas exposed to direct sunlight or tropical climates
Isolsbarra technology: individually insulated conductors
Graziadio’s Isolsbarra solution features individually insulated conductors, a technical design that directly contributes to achieving high IP ratings.
Benefits of the Isolsbarra system
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Enhanced resistance to external agents
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Watertight enclosure
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Continuity of service even in the event of partial conductor damage
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Suitable for installations in potentially explosive atmospheres
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UV protection and fire resistance in compliance with product standards
Where an IP66–68 busbar system is essential
Graziadio busbar systems with IP66–68 protection are recommended for environments classified as “aggressive” due to the presence of:
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high humidity
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pressurized washing systems
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dust, chemical vapors, or corrosive agents
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direct exposure to rain, wind, and solar radiation
Common environmental conditions
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High humidity or risk of condensation
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High-pressure washdowns (e.g., food processing facilities)
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Presence of dust, chemical vapors, or corrosive agents
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Exposure to environmental elements (rain, wind, sunlight)
Application areas
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Outdoor industrial environments
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Facilities in marine or tropical zones
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Tunnels, underpasses, and underground areas
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Environments with a high risk of flooding
Fire resistance and service continuity
In addition to protection against dust and liquids, Graziadio’s busbar systems are engineered to resist flame propagation and, where required, to withstand fire conditions.
Fire safety requirements
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30 minutes for alarms and emergency lighting
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90 minutes for fire elevators, ventilation systems, and sprinkler pumps
Additional enclosures
For these applications, busbar systems can be integrated into an additional protective enclosure to enhance their thermal and mechanical resistance.
Outdoor installations: real examples
Here are some examples demonstrating the effectiveness of IP66 and IP68 joints on Isolsbarra busbar systems:
The tangible advantages of high-level protection
Long-term benefits
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Safety and reliability in critical environments
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Reduced need for preventive maintenance
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No additional cost for external enclosures
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Maximum operational continuity even under extreme conditions
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Compliance with fire safety regulations
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Durability even in high-wear environments
Certified reliability — Graziadio
Choosing Graziadio for the design and installation of IP66 or IP68 busbar systems means opting for a certified, durable, and tested solution. The Isolsbarra technology combines robustness and modularity, enabling secure installations even in environments that demand the highest levels of protection
Would you like to explore the benefits of Graziadio busbar systems with IP66–68 protection?
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Download the technical brochure
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Request a free consultation with our team
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Contact us for technical support
