What Is the Protection Rating or IP Standard in Electronic Equipment?
IP, short for Ingress Protection, is recognized as an international standard for the protection rating of electrical equipment. This classification helps users understand to what extent a product is protected against environmental factors and what conditions it is suitable for. Electrical and electronic equipment can malfunction or be damaged if dust or water penetrates them; for this reason, the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) has developed Ingress Protection (IP) ratings.
IP ratings define three key factors:
Protection of users against contact with electrical or mechanical parts
Protection of the enclosure against dust, dirt, and foreign objects
Resistance to moisture and water ingress
IP ratings usually consist of two digits, sometimes accompanied by an additional letter indicating specific materials, hazards, or test scenarios, such as IP43 or IP67.
Despite minor differences, the IP classification is generally standardized:
In the UK, according to BS EN 60529:1992
European standards comply with IEC 60509:1989
International standard is EN 60529
In Iran, the national standard ISIRI 2868 uses the IP protection rating for classifying electrical equipment up to a nominal voltage of 72.5 kV
The first digit indicates protection against solid objects, rated from 0 (no protection) to 6 (dust-tight).
The second digit ranges from 0 to 9, showing how resistant a material is to moisture penetration under various depths, angles, intensities, immersion, or exposure conditions.
IP Rating Table and Chart
You can find the meaning of each digit in a standard IP code in the IP rating table below. Using this ingress protection chart, you can determine what hazards and scenarios a specific device’s mechanical or electrical components should be protected against. You can also see how this protection applies in each environment.
First digit: Level of protection against the entry of foreign objects and suspended particles
| First Digit | Protection Level |
|---|---|
| 0 or X | No rating (or not rated) in terms of ingress protection for this type |
| 1 | Protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm (accidental contact with an open hand), but no protection against deliberate contact with body parts |
| 2 | Protection against solid objects larger than 12 mm (accidental finger contact) |
| 3 | Protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 mm (tools and wires) |
| 4 | Protection against solid objects larger than 1 mm (thin tools and wires, nails, screws, large insects, and other small potentially penetrating objects) |
| 5 | Partial protection against dust and other particles, so that any ingress does not cause damage or impair the satisfactory operation of internal components |
| 6 | Complete protection against dust and other particles, including full sealing (Vacuum Seal) and tested against continuous airflow |
Second Digit: Level of Protection Against Moisture Ingress
| Second Digit | Protection Level |
|---|---|
| 0 or X | No rating (or not rated) in terms of ingress protection for this type |
| 1 | Protection against vertically dripping water, such as condensation, so that when the device is upright, no damage or interruption occurs in the operation of its components |
| 2 | Protection against vertically dripping water when the enclosure is tilted up to 15° from vertical |
| 3 | Protection against direct water spray up to an angle of 60° from vertical |
| 4 | Protection against water jets from any direction; tested for at least 10 minutes with oscillating spray (limited ingress is allowed, provided it does not cause harmful effects) |
| 5 | Protection against low-pressure water jets (6.3 mm nozzle) from any angle (limited ingress allowed, without harmful effects) |
| 6 | Protection against powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle) from any direction |
| 7 | Protection against full immersion for up to 30 minutes at depths between 15 cm and 1 meter (limited ingress allowed, without harmful effects) |
| 8 | Protection against prolonged immersion at higher pressure, i.e., at greater depths. The exact parameters of this test are determined and specified by the manufacturer and may, depending on the type of equipment, include additional factors such as temperature variations and water flow rate. |
| 9K | Protection against very high-pressure and high-temperature water jets, pressure washing, or steam cleaning processes; this rating is usually seen in specific applications for road vehicles (ISO 20653:2013 — Road vehicles, degrees of protection). |
IPX Ratings
Ratings such as IPX7 or IP5X indicate that one of the two types of protection in electronic equipment (against solid objects or moisture) is specified, while the other is not:
IPX7: Resistance to moisture (immersion in water), with no specified protection against solid objects
IP5X: Protection against ingress of solid objects with a code of 5, without specifying moisture resistance
In fact, IPX is not a separate code by itself; it merely indicates the absence of information for one of the two ingress factors.
Types of Products with IP Protection or IP Standard in Electronic Equipment
Various products have IP ratings. Standardizing these codes allows customers and users to understand the capabilities and limitations of each product in different scenarios.
Here, we will look at some of the most common IP ratings in everyday items.
Waterproof and Weather-Resistant IP Ratings
IP ratings for water resistance are applied in various products, from lighting systems to CCTV enclosures.
The second digit in the IP protection rating specifies the exact level of moisture and water ingress protection.
For general waterproof applications, IP65, IP66, and IP67 are usually sufficient.
Higher ratings are not always necessary for outdoor use, as rainfall is usually low-pressure and vertical:
IPX2: Protection against dripping water up to 15°
IPX3: Resistance to continuous water spray up to 60°
IPX7, IPX8, and IPX9 are specifically for water immersion and do not necessarily guarantee resistance to high-pressure water jets (IPX5/IPX6).
General Enclosures with IP Protection or IP Standard in Electronic Equipment
General enclosures are designed to house and protect electronic equipment or sensitive devices and are usually provided with a specified IP rating.
These enclosures are often wall-mounted and can include security accessories such as a keypad or lock. Smaller models are typically called junction boxes.
If not designed for a specific application, they are made as simple, robust boxes, with size and material varying depending on the environment, but generally for outdoor general use, they have IP65+ ratings.
Handheld Enclosures with IP Rating
Handheld enclosures are designed to protect controllers and electronic tools such as voltmeters, digital thermometers, and current measuring devices.
These enclosures are usually made from lightweight, durable aluminum and feature an acrylic window for LCD display and a battery compartment with a removable cover.
The IP protection rating in these enclosures ensures the safety of users and contents against accidental contact with mechanical parts or wiring. Depending on the application, IP65+ may be required for complete water ingress protection.
Power Supply Cases with IP Rating
Power supply cases are made from sturdy, durable materials to securely house high-voltage components such as transformers and PSUs, with design varying depending on protection requirements.
The IP protection rating in electronic equipment for these cases is usually lower (IP20+) to allow heat dissipation and ventilation while still preventing tool or finger ingress. These cases often include additional safety features such as tamper-resistant and corrosion- and abrasion-resistant enclosures to ensure equipment safety and durability.
Power Supply Cases with IP Rating
Power supply cases are made from sturdy, durable materials to securely house high-voltage components such as transformers and PSUs, with designs varying according to protection requirements.
IP ratings are usually lower (IP20+) to allow heat dissipation and ventilation while preventing tool or finger ingress. These cases often feature additional safety measures such as tamper-resistant enclosures and corrosion- and abrasion-resistant materials to ensure equipment safety and longevity.
Wall-Mounted Boxes with IP Rating in Electronic Equipment
Wall-mounted boxes with an IP rating are designed for industrial electrical systems to provide safe access to sensitive components such as fuse boxes or hazardous materials storage, usually featuring lockable doors.
They are made of durable plastic and often have high IP ratings such as IP67 for full water protection, suitable for some marine applications, and frequently include a transparent window for quick visual inspection.
Importance of IP Rating in Lighting
IP rating is critical in designing and installing industrial lighting systems, especially in areas exposed to dust, particles, or moisture, such as outdoor environments.
Lights follow the same IP standards as electrical enclosures, and assessing different areas is necessary to ensure each light is properly protected against environmental factors.
IP Ratings for Outdoor Lighting
Selecting the appropriate IP rating for outdoor lights ensures safety and proper functioning against condensation, rain, and foreign objects. This applies to:
PIR and security sensors
Work and safety seals
Accent lighting and under-arch lights
General Guidelines:
IPX3: Protection against water spray at 60°; suitable for semi-enclosed areas
IPX4: Suitable for exposed areas with normal rainfall
IPX5+: For cleaning with high-pressure water jets
IPX7: Immersion in water up to 1 meter (e.g., pond or pool)
IPX8: Immersion at greater depths; actual resistance should be verified
Choosing the correct rating ensures light longevity and user safety.
IP Ratings in Electrical Equipment
IP numbers standardize electrical equipment, but understanding the type of protection and required resistance is more important, as even minor moisture or particle ingress can damage devices and create hazards.
In industrial environments, less obvious threats include: vapor and condensation, dust accumulation in difficult areas, corrosion, or chemical contact.
Selecting the appropriate IP rating and following standards ensures equipment longevity and safety.
Ingress Protection (IP) and Its Importance
Ingress Protection (IP) is an international standard specifying the level of protection for enclosures and electrical devices against solid objects and liquids (based on BS EN 60529).
Simply put, the IP rating indicates how resistant and sealed a device is against external factors, making it a key factor in selecting suitable equipment for various environments.
Importance and Application of IP Code in Various Equipment
IP codes are applied across a wide range of products, from industrial enclosures to household and digital devices, indicating water and dust resistance. Many devices display this rating on labels or packaging. Optional letters (e.g., IP66H or IP66K) indicate additional tests or standards. Most equipment only has a two-digit IP code specifying basic device protection.
Applications by Sector
The required IP rating in electronic equipment depends greatly on the application and environment. Choosing the right level balances protection with cost and performance. Typical recommended IP ratings by sector include:
Indoor Residential and Commercial Applications
IP20–IP21: Adequate protection against solid objects (finger or tool) and suitable for standard switches and sockets
IP54+: Recommended for wet areas or where water may splash, such as kitchens or under sinks, to increase equipment safety and durability
IP Rating in Bathrooms and Kitchens
In indoor wet environments like bathrooms and kitchens, high IP-rated equipment is essential:
IP44+: For ceiling lights and fans above tubs or showers, providing splash resistance
IP67: For equipment inside shower or bathtub areas (Zone 0), requiring full immersion protection
IP65: For lights inside shower trays according to UK regulations
Following these standards ensures electrical safety and equipment longevity in wet environments.
IP Standard in Outdoor and Industrial Environments
In outdoor and industrial spaces, equipment is exposed to moisture, dust, and harsh conditions, making high IP ratings necessary:
Outdoor enclosures and equipment (street cabinets, lamp posts, pump stations): IP54+
Industrial plants with dust or continuous washing: IP65–IP66 (e.g., oil and petrochemical control panels with IP66)
Extremely harsh conditions like mining and cement plants: higher than IP66
When in doubt, selecting a higher IP rating ensures safety, durability, and lower maintenance costs.
IP Standard in Specialized Facilities and Infrastructure
In industrial and specialized facilities, equipment protection is critical:
Food and chemical plants: IP66–IP69K for continuous washing resistance
Automotive and shipbuilding: IP69K for high-pressure hot water cleaning
Mining operations: IP67 for splash and immersion resistance
Corrosion-resistant materials are often used, e.g., marine machinery with IP66
For public infrastructure:
Street lighting and electrical panels: IP55+
Transformer boxes: IP66
Underground telecommunication enclosures: IP67+
Railway signals and traffic lights: IP65–IP66
Critical infrastructure (water treatment, renewable energy): IP65–IP66 for leak and moisture protection
The importance of IP rating in electrical equipment makes selecting safe, durable, and internationally compliant equipment a core requirement for construction, industrial, and infrastructure projects. IP ratings define dust and moisture resistance while directly improving user safety, reducing maintenance costs, and extending electrical system lifespan.
Dena Electric Iranian Approach
Dena Electric Iranian, leveraging technical expertise, engineering design, and strict adherence to global standards, offers products suited to diverse environmental conditions in Iran and modern project requirements. Correct IP rating selection in electrical equipment production is a fundamental pillar of quality and trust in Dena Electric products.
From residential and commercial spaces to industrial, wet, and outdoor environments, using appropriately IP-rated equipment ensures reliable, safe, and stable electrical systems — a path that Dena Electric Iranian pursues with sustainability and forward-thinking in mind.
Ultimately, adhering to IP standards is not only a technical requirement but a professional commitment to safety, quality, and innovation — a philosophy through which Dena Electric Iranian moves “toward a bright future, Dena style.”
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