12 Glossary
Protection class IP
The protection class according to DIN EN 60529 indicates the suitability of
electrical equipment for use in certain ambient conditions as well as the protection
against risks.
The protection class is specified by an IP code according to DIN EN 60529.
Code
Meaning 1st number:
Protection against touching hazardous parts.
Protection against permeating foreign objects.
0
Not protected against contact.
Not protected against foreign bodies.
1
Protected against contact with the back of the hand.
Protected against large foreign objects with diameter > 50 mm (1.9 in).
2
Protected against contact with one finger.
Protected against medium-sized foreign objects (diameter > 12.5 mm (0.5
in)).
3
Protected against touch with a tool (diameter > 2.5 mm (0.01 in)).
Protected against small foreign objects with (diameter > 2.5 mm (0.01 in)).
4
Protected against touch with a wire (diameter > 1 mm (0.03 in)).
Protected against granular foreign objects (diameter > 1 mm (0.03 in)).
5
Protected against contact.
Protected against dust depositing inside.
6
Completely protected against any contact.
Protected from dust.
Code
Meaning 2nd number: Protection against permeating water
0
Not protected against permeating water.
1
Protected against water dropping vertically.
2
Protected against diagonally falling water (15° angle).
3
Protected against spray (60° angle).
4
Protected against spraying water from all directions.
5
Protected against water jets (nozzle) from any angle.
6
Protected against strong water jets (overflow).
7
Protected from temporary immersion in water.
8
Protected from ongoing immersion in water.
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