EC 60529 outlines an international classification system for the sealing effectiveness of enclosures of electrical equipment against the intrusion into the equipment of foreign bodies (i.e., tools, dust, fingers) and moisture. This classification system utilizes the letters "IP" ("Ingress Protection") followed by two digits. (An "X" is used for one of the digits if there is only one class of protection; i.e., IP X4 which addresses moisture resistance only.) The IP Code Symbol Chart helps illustrate the classification system.
Degrees of Protection (First Digit)
The first digit of the IP code indicates the degree that persons are protected against contact with moving parts (other than smooth rotating shafts, etc.) and the degree that equipment is protected against solid foreign bodies intruding into an enclosure.
Degrees of Protection (Second Digit)
Second digit indicates the degree of protection of the equipment inside the enclosure against the harmful entry of various forms of moisture (e.g. dripping, spraying, submersion, etc.).
IP Code Symbol Chart
1stDigit
Protection from solid objects
2ndDigit
Protection from moisture
0
no protection
0
no protection
1
Protection from a large part of the body such as a hand (but no protection from deliberate access); from solid objects greater than 50mm in diameter.
1
Protected against vertically dripping water.
2
Protected against solid objects greater than 12.5mm.
2
Protected against dripping water when tilted up to 15°.
3
Protected against solid objects greater than 2.5mm.
3
Protected against spraying water.
4
Protected against solid objects greater than 1.0mm.
4
Protected against splashing water.
5
Dust protected.
5
Protected against jetting water.
6
Dust tight.
6
Protected against powerfully jetting water.
Note:
IEC 60529 does not specify sealing effectiveness against the following: mechanical damage of the equipment; the risk of explosions; certain types of moisture conditions, e.g., those that are produced by condensation; corrosive vapors; fungus; vermin.
7
Protected against the temporary effects of immersion.
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