IP Ratings Explained

What is IP rating?

Based on industrial standards the universal 'IP', or Ingress Protection rating, is given to electrical enclosures. This rating indicates the level of protection, depending upon the environment and application conditions.

The first digit indicates solid particle protection, and the second digit indicates the liquid ingress protection.

These ratings are clearer than just splash-proof or water-proof. The table below sets out the standards clearly to help you choose your equipment.

IP Rating Guide

 

Solids (first digit)

 

Liquids (second digit)

1

Protected against a solid object greater than 50mm,such as a hand

1

Protected against vertically falling drops of water

2

Protected against a solid object greater than 12.5mm such as a finger

2

Protected against diagonally falling (up to 15 degrees from vertical) drops of water

3

Protected against a solid object greater than 2.5mm such as a screwdriver

3

Protected against diagonally falling (up to 60 degrees from vertical) sprays of water

4

Protected against a solid object greater than 1.0mm, such as a thin wire

4

Protected against water splashing from any angle

5

Dust protected. Prevents ingress of dust sufficient to cause harm

5

Protected against water jets from any angle

6

Dust tight. No ingress of dust

6

Protected against powerful water jets and heavy seas

 

 

7

Protected against the effects of temporary submersion in water (30mins at 1 metre)

 

 

8

Protection against the effects of permanent submersion in water (up to three metres)