Understanding IP Ratings for Industrial Electrical Equipment

An IP rating has two digits. The first is protection against solids (dust), the second against water.

  • IP54 — dust-protected; splashing water from any direction.
  • IP55 — dust-protected; low-pressure water jets. A common choice for motors and outdoor panels.
  • IP65 — dust-tight; water jets. Used where equipment is regularly washed down.

A higher rating is not always better: tighter enclosures can run hotter, so ventilation and derating should be checked. Tell us the environment and we will advise. Talk to our team.

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