IP
IP Ratings (IEC 60529)
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IP Ratings — IEC 60529
IP stands for Ingress Protection. It is followed by two digits (and optionally a letter).
First digit — solid objects / dust
| 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| none | ≥50 mm | ≥12.5 mm | ≥2.5 mm | ≥1 mm | dust protection | dust-tight |
Second digit — water
| 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9K |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| none | dripping water | dripping water at 15° | spray | splashing | jet | powerful jet | immersion | continuous immersion | high-pressure washer |
IP2X is the practical minimum requirement for accessible parts of a distribution board or switchgear cabinet: protection against the ingress of a finger (≥ 12.5 mm) to live parts. A cabinet that is rated IP2X on the outside must still not allow direct finger contact with live parts once a door or panel has been opened.
Commonly used combinations
- IP20 — dry indoor spaces (office, living room)
- IP44 — bathroom zone 2, terrace
- IP54 — workshops
- IP55 — greenhouses (§705), outdoor enclosures
- IP65 — façade luminaires, splash-proof
- IP67 — temporarily submersible
- IP69K — food industry, car wash bays
Further reading
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