IP04 vs IP37
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP04 and IP37 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 3) and liquid protection (level 4 vs 7). IP04 is rated for no protection and splashing water (all directions), while IP37 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and temporary immersion (up to 1 m).
The IP04 rating offers no protection against solid objects and protection against splashing water. Water splashed against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 0 with second-digit (liquid) level 4.
Specified under IEC 60529, IP37 denotes protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 mm and protection against the effects of temporary immersion in water. Ingress of water in quantities causing harmful effects shall not be possible.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 3 with second-digit (liquid) level 7.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP04
0 — No Protection
IP37
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP04
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP37
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP04
No
IP37
No
Water-jet resistant
IP04
No
IP37
Yes
Submersible
IP04
No
IP37
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP04
Yes
IP37
Yes
The exact difference (IP04 vs IP37)
Solid protection
IP04
Level 0 — No Protection
IP37
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP04 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP37 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP37 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP04
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP37
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP04 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)), while IP37 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)). IP37 provides 3 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP37 offers higher overall protection than IP04. Choose IP37 for harsher environments; IP04 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.