Paul Hicks, marketing and product manager at Stihl GB, explains why tools with a robust IPX4 rating are essential in ensuring productivity at all times.
GIVEN the demanding nature of arboriculture and forestry work, it is essential that the tools used on the job are reliable. This is even more of a necessity in the UK, which is notoriously a challenging environment to work in thanks to frequent cold and wet weather conditions.
As we move into the autumn and winter months, it is crucial that forestry professionals have access to battery-powered tools that can stand up to the elements without experiencing a compromise in performance – hence the IPX4 rating.
WHAT IS IPX4?
Established by the International Electrotechnical Commission, Ingress Protection (IP) ratings grade electronics based on their resistance to intrusion against things that can harm their function, like dust or liquids.
IPX4 certification is a globally recognised water resistance rating. An item with this rating is protected against water splashing from any direction, meaning it can handle water exposure from splashing and spraying without becoming damaged or losing its overall functionality. In short, equipment with this rating can be used in wet conditions.
Stihl has achieved IPX4 certification across all its AS and AP System batteries, ensuring that forestry professionals can work with confidence in varying weather conditions, knowing their tools will not only remain functional, but safe to use too.
HOW IS THIS TESTED?
To test a piece of equipment to achieve an IPX4 certification, the object in question is exposed to water sprayed in all directions for 10 minutes. This water is usually dispersed by an oscillating tube or a spray nozzle.
Upon completion, the device is inspected for signs of water intrusion, including discolouration, deformation or any other physical changes due to water ingress.
Stihl tools undergo extensive testing at the company’s research and development facilities to ensure that they meet the IPX4 standard. So, while Stihl recommends storing batteries in dry conditions and avoiding submersion in water, they will fare well in the wet conditions the UK is well-known for.
THE IMPORTANCE OF AN IPX4 RATING IN BATTERY-POWERED TOOLS
As professionals continue to diversify their machinery fleet by incorporating battery-powered tools, the importance of battery quality and specification will also continue to grow. All Stihl AS and AP System batteries are IPX4 certified, meaning that professionals can count on their tools to perform in the most adverse weather conditions.
For more information on Stihl’s professional tools, visit www.stihl.co.uk.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here