Adaptalok non-metallic flexible conduit system, from Adaptaflex, with insert seal withstood the demanding high temperature pressure water jet test to achieve IP69K ingress protection rating.
So too did the Adaptaseal range of systems utilising compression fittings and so did the Adaptasteel SPL Type liquid tight PVC covered steel flexible systems with M Type fittings.
All the systems passed this highly demanding IP69K test without the need for any additional parts. Straight, 45º and 90º fittings were thoroughly tested in a full range of sizes, as was the T Type fitting on the Adaptaseal system. "These tests prove that Adaptalok and the other Adaptaflex systems are suitable for use in applications where high pressure water jets are used, opening up a number of new areas for our products", said Meirion Buck of Adaptaflex. "IP ratings in general, to IEC 60529, are static tests that categorise degrees of ingress protection up to IP68 offering complete protection against dust and continuous submersion at a quoted pressure and duration i.e. 2 bar at 6 hours.
Because of the requirement for use on applications for both trains and vehicles, including pressure washing, the test to IP69K is a true measure of the product's ingress protection capability in a highly demanding environment." The exhaustive tests, to DIN 40 050, Part 9, 1993, stipulate that a high pressure water jet is fired at the assembled fitting for 30 second from each of four locations. Water pressure is between 8000 and 10,000 Kpa, at a temperature of 80ºC and at a flow rate of up to 16 litres/minute. In order to successfully pass the tests all the Adaptaflex systems had to remain completely dry internally throughout. This they did perfectly and a full inspection revealed that there had been no water penetration, whatsoever.
The independent tests were carried out by MIRA at its Test Centre in Warwickshire. "We are always looking at independent validation of our products," explained Meirion Buck of Adaptaflex. "Going for the DIN IP69K standard, with its highly demanding testing, is an extremely positive way of endorsing a product so that specifiers and users know exactly the quality they are getting."