IP09K vs IP21
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP09K and IP21 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 2) and liquid protection (level 9K vs 1). IP09K is rated for no protection and high-pressure, high-temp water jets, while IP21 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and vertically dripping water.
The IP09K rating offers no protection against solid objects and resistance to high-pressure (8–10 MPa), high-temperature (80 °C) water jets. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 0 with second-digit (liquid) level 9K.
Designed for environments requiring protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against vertically falling drops of water. Dripping water shall have no harmful effects., IP21 is an IEC 60529 code combining solid level 2 with liquid level 1.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP09K
0 — No Protection
IP21
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP09K
9 — High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets
IP21
1 — Vertically Dripping Water
Dust-tight
IP09K
No
IP21
No
Water-jet resistant
IP09K
Yes
IP21
No
Submersible
IP09K
Yes
IP21
No
Outdoor suitable
IP09K
Yes
IP21
No
The exact difference (IP09K vs IP21)
Solid protection
IP09K
Level 0 — No Protection
IP21
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP09K provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP21 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP21 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP09K
Level 9 — High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets
IP21
Level 1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IP09K handles 8–10 MPa (High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets), while IP21 handles 0.1 mm/min drip rate (Vertically Dripping Water). IP09K provides 8 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP09K offers higher overall protection than IP21. Choose IP09K for harsher environments; IP21 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.