Technical Bulletin

TB-106: Sealing Options for EPC Encoders: Protecting Your Equipment in Harsh Environments

Encoders operate in a wide range of industrial settings, many of which expose them to dust, moisture, chemicals, and extreme temperatures. Ensuring the right sealing option for your encoder is crucial to maintaining performance, longevity, and reliability in demanding applications.

At EPC (Encoder Products Company), we offer a variety of sealing options designed to protect your encoders from environmental hazards. Whether you need IP66 or IP69K-rated protection, we have solutions to keep your equipment running smoothly.

Why Sealing Matters for Encoders

Encoders are essential for motion control, positioning, and feedback in industrial automation. However, exposure to contaminants can cause premature failure, leading to downtime and costly repairs. Proper sealing ensures that your encoder withstands harsh conditions, preventing issues like:

  • Dust and debris infiltration
  • Water and moisture damage
  • Oil and chemical exposure
  • Temperature fluctuations

IP Ratings: Understanding Your Protection Level

IP (Ingress Protection) ratings define how well an encoder resists solid particles and liquids. Here’s what they mean:

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Choosing the right IP-rated sealing ensures your encoder performs reliably in its intended environment.

EPC Encoder Sealing Options

EPC encoders come with multiple sealing configurations to match the demands of your application:

TB-106

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TB-106 Sealing Options for EPC Encoders

1. IP50 Standard Sealing

  • Provides basic dust and moisture resistance.
  • Suitable for indoor environments with minimal exposure to contaminants.

2. IP64 Sealing

  • Adds protection against light dust and splashing water.
  • Ideal for controlled industrial environments.

3. IP66 Sealing (Recommended for Washdown Areas)

  • Fully dust-tight and protected against high-pressure water jets.
  • Perfect for food processing, packaging, and washdown applications.

4. IP67 Sealing (Recommended for Harsh Environments)

  • Fully dustproof and capable of temporary immersion in water.
  • Best for outdoor automation, marine, and heavy industrial applications.

5. IP69K Sealing (Recommended for Extreme Washdown Conditions)

  • Provides the highest level of protection against dust and high-pressure, high-temperature water.
  • Ideal for hygienic applications like food and beverage production, chemical processing, and pharmaceutical environments.
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Note: 

EPC offers some encoders with a dual rating where the ingress protection differs between the shaft and the housing. The product datasheet specifies the sealing options for each encoder.

Choosing the Right Sealing for Your Application

  • To determine the right encoder sealing, consider:
    • Exposure Level: Will the encoder be exposed to dust, water, or chemicals?
    • Operating Environment: Indoor vs. outdoor, cleanroom vs. heavy industrial use.
    • Maintenance Needs: Higher protection means less frequent cleaning and servicing.

If you’re unsure which sealing option fits your needs, our experts can help!

Get Reliable Encoders with the Right Protection

At EPC, we provide high-quality encoders engineered to withstand tough environments. Whether you need IP66, IP67 or IP69K sealing, we ensure durability, accuracy, and long-term performance.

Download the PDF

TB-106 Sealing Options for EPC Encoders

Contact EPC

For help determining which IP rating is right for the encoder in your application, please contact EPC Technical Services at 800-366-5412 or email techsupport@encoder.com.

 

TB-106 Rev D, 05/06/2025