IP34 vs IP45
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP34 and IP45 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 4) and liquid protection (level 4 vs 5). IP34 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and splashing water (all directions), while IP45 provides > 1 mm — small wires and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
IP34 is an ingress protection code that ensures protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 mm 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 3 with second-digit (liquid) level 4.
IP45 protects against 1 mm solid objects and low-pressure water jets (6.3 mm nozzle, 30 kPa). A mid-range indoor/outdoor-covered rating for equipment that may be rinsed or hosed gently.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP34
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP45
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP34
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP45
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP34
No
IP45
No
Water-jet resistant
IP34
No
IP45
Yes
Submersible
IP34
No
IP45
No
Outdoor suitable
IP34
Yes
IP45
Yes
The exact difference (IP34 vs IP45)
Solid protection
IP34
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP45
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP34 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IP45 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4). IP45 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP34
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP45
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP34 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)), while IP45 handles 30 kPa (Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)). IP45 provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP45 offers higher overall protection than IP34. Choose IP45 for harsher environments; IP34 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.