1. Introduction to IP Protection Level Testing:

IP stands for Ingress Protection.

The IP protection rating system provides a method to classify products based on the degree of protection offered by electrical equipment enclosures against dust, water, and mechanical impact. This system is recognized by most European countries and was drafted by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC).

Protection levels are usually expressed by the letters IP followed by two digits, which specify the degree of protection.

The first digit indicates the level of protection against solid objects or the degree to which people are protected from hazardous parts in sealed environments. The highest level for solid ingress protection is 6.

The second digit indicates the level of protection against water ingress. The highest level for water ingress protection is 8.

2. IP Protection Level Classification Requirements:

IPXX Dust and Water Protection Levels

Dust Protection Level (First Digit)

0: No protection

1: Protection against large solid objects

2: Protection against medium-sized solid objects

3: Protection against small solid objects

4: Protection against objects larger than 1mm

5: Protection against harmful dust accumulation

6: Complete protection against dust ingress

Water Protection Level (Second Digit)

0: No protection

1: Protection against vertically falling water drops

2: Protection against vertically falling water drops when enclosure tilted up to 15°

3: Protection against spraying water at an angle up to 60°

4: Protection against splashing water from any direction

5: Protection against water jets from any direction

6: Protection against powerful water jets or waves

7: Protection against temporary immersion (1m depth)

8: Protection against continuous immersion under specified pressure

Example: If an instrument is rated IP65, it means it is completely dust-tight and protected against water jets from any direction.

IP Protection Level Application Areas:

1. Automotive electronics, automotive components, etc.

2. Electronic and electrical products

3. Communication products, portable and outdoor equipment

Waterproof testing reference standards: GB 4208, IEC 60529, GB/T 30038, ISO 20653, DIN 40050-9, JIS D0203, etc.