As an associate of SKG-IKOB we present to you our newsletter. In this way we keep you regularly informed of the latest developments in relation to certification, testing and inspections.

SKG-IKOB Laboratory expands with facilities for IP testing (dust and water) 

Dusting isn’t the first thing that springs to mind when you think about testing and certification, but it’s an important aspect when it comes to (electromechanical) locks. Dust can form a major risk to the functioning and durability of these locks, and can even cause a lock to become completely jammed. In addition, we all know that water and electricity are not a good combination. Products like electromechanical locks and lighting comprise electronic components and, in our climate, are regularly exposed to damp conditions and rainwater. As faults in these products can have direct consequences for security and burglar resistance, it is important to know whether they are moisture-proof. The market is keen for products such as electromechanical locks and lighting to be tested for their ability to withstand dust and water. 
SKG-IKOB has decided to invest in equipment for testing resistance to dust and water. The tests will be carried out in line with the international NEN-EN-IEC 60529:2013 standard and generate an IP code for the product. 

Bicycle locks after undergoing a dust test.

Dust

Products must be tested for resistance to dust for an IP5X classification. This does not mean that all dust must be prevented from permeating the product, but that it must not permeate the product to the extent that it interferes with the operation of the product or the safety it provides. 
To be granted an IP5X classification, products are placed in a dust chamber and exposed to a constant stream of circulating dust for a period of eight hours. After this, they are assessed to check that they still fit for purpose. This means that after having been exposed to dust, the lock must still open and close.
The dust resistance test is not only important for electromechanical locks, but has for some time now also been part of the tests used in the ART and SCM certification procedure for products for two-wheel and vehicle safety. These tests are already carried out in the SKG-IKOB laboratory.

Testing facilities in the SKG-IKOB Laboratory for IP testing (dust and water)

Water

SKG-IKOB equipment is also suitable for testing water resistance up to an IPX4 classification. This classification is also termed “splash-proof” and implies that the product will not incur damage from long-term exposure to water sprayed onto the product from all sides. The test is similar to leaving the product outside in a heavy shower, and means that it is suitable for use out of doors.

This expansion of the testing facilities and continuous development puts SKG-IKOB at the forefront of testing and certification institutes and laboratories. SKG-IKOB has over 50 years of experience as a testing and certification institute and laboratory for building and safety products. SKG-IKOB was established by the industry itself as an independent, impartial body that would safeguard the long-term performance and safety of products and services for the construction and real estate sector.

Would you like to know more about this subject?
If you would like to know more, contact Charles Wallert: c.wallert@skgikob.nl

Did you know that SKG-IKOB Certificatie can also provide your VCA, ISO and CSR certification?

• VCA* / VCA**
• ISO 9001
• ISO 14001 (environment)
• Building on CSR (MVO)

Click here for more information or send an email to contact us directly.