IP11 vs IP17
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP11 and IP17 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 1 vs 7). IP11 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and vertically dripping water, while IP17 provides > 50 mm — back of hand and temporary immersion (up to 1 m).
Engineered to deliver protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against vertically falling drops of water. Dripping water shall have no harmful effects.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP11, it pairs solid level 1 with liquid level 1.
Built to withstand protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against the effects of temporary immersion in water. Ingress of water in quantities causing harmful effects shall not be possible.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP17, it pairs solid level 1 with liquid level 7.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP11
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP17
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP11
1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IP17
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP11
No
IP17
No
Water-jet resistant
IP11
No
IP17
Yes
Submersible
IP11
No
IP17
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP11
No
IP17
Yes
The exact difference (IP11 vs IP17)
Solid protection
IP11
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP17
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Both IP11 and IP17 share the same solid protection: > 50 mm — Back of Hand.
Liquid protection
IP11
Level 1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IP17
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP11 handles 0.1 mm/min drip rate (Vertically Dripping Water), while IP17 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)). IP17 provides 6 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP17 offers higher overall protection than IP11. Choose IP17 for harsher environments; IP11 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.