IP Rating Guide (Ingress Protection Rating)
IP ratings (Ingress Protection Rating) are a global standard used to define the levels of sealing effectiveness of electrical or mechanical enclosures against intrusion from foreign objects like dust and water. Our guide breaks down each component of the rating system, making it easy to understand what these numbers mean for your equipment and their durability. Whether you're choosing equipment for harsh environments or simply curious about your items' resilience, this guide will provide you with all the knowledge you need!
Common IP Ratings
| Rating | Typical Use |
|---|
| IP20 | Indoor electronics, control panels |
| IP44 | Domestic outdoor fittings |
| IP54 | Industrial control equipment |
| IP65 | Outdoor enclosures, machinery |
| IP67 | Sensors, underground or wet locations |
| IP69K | Food processing, automotive washdown |
What IP Ratings Do Not Cover
IP ratings are often misunderstood. They do not account for:
An enclosure can be IP68 and still fail in sunlight, chemicals, or vibration.
Testing and Certification
IP testing is performed under controlled laboratory conditions.
Reputable manufacturers will:
Specify test standards (IEC 60529)
Define immersion depth and duration for IPX8
Provide test reports on request
If the documentation is vague, assume the protection is overstated.
Choosing the Right IP Rating
Choosing an IP rating should be driven by environment, not marketing:
Indoor, dry → IP20–IP30
Outdoor exposure → IP54 minimum
Washdown environments → IP65 or higher
Submersion risk → IP67 or IP68 (with defined limits)
Over-specifying increases cost. Under-specifying guarantees failure.