2-3
IP Classification Codes
Ingress Protection (IP) ratings are developed by the European Committee for Electro Technical
Standardization.
International Standard IEC 60529 outlines an international classification system that describes the
sealing characteristics of electrical equipment. The classification system defines the level of protection
provided by enclosures to prevent the ingress of foreign objects and moisture into the electrical
equipment.
The classification system uses the “IP” code, or “Ingress Protection” code, to define the level of seal. An IP
number contains two numbers (i.e. IP57) in most instances which relate to the level of protection provided
by an enclosure or housing. Either number may be shown as “X” (i.e. IPX6 / IP7X) to indicate the “X” part is
not tested.
IP 5 7
Degrees of Protection (Foreign Bodies) – 1st Digit
Code letters
1st Digit
2nd Digit
Degrees of Protection (Moisture) – 2nd Digit
IP Level
Description of Protection Level
0
Not protected
1
Protected against foreign solid objects
of 50 mm diameter and greater
(Protects against a large surface of the
body, such as the back of a hand)
P t t d i t
f
i
lid
bj t
IP Level
Description of Protection Level
0
Not protected
1
Protected against vertically falling water
drops
Protected against vertically falling water
2
Protected against foreign solid objects
of 12.5 mm diameter and greater
(Protects against fingers or similar
objects)
3
Protected against foreign solid objects
of 2.5 mm diameter and greater
(Protects against tools, thick wires, etc.)
Protected against foreign solid objects
f 1 0
di
d
2
Protected against vertically falling water
drops when enclosure is tilted up to 15º
3
Protected against water sprayed at an
angle up to 60º on either side of the
vertical
4
Protected against water splashed
against the component from any
direction
4
of 1.0 mm diameter and greater
(Protects against most wires, screws,
etc.)
5
Protected from the amount of dust that
would interfere with normal operation
6
Dust tight
(No ingress of dust; complete protection
5
Protected against water projected in jets
from any direction
6
Protected against water projected in
powerful jets from any direction
7
Protected against temporary immersion
in water between 15cm and 1m for
8
against contact)
7
in water between 15cm and 1m for
30min.
8
Protected against continuous immersion
in water beyond 1m.
