IP34 vs IP47
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP34 and IP47 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 4) and liquid protection (level 4 vs 7). IP34 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and splashing water (all directions), while IP47 provides > 1 mm — small wires and temporary immersion (up to 1 m).
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.
IP47 provides protection against solid objects larger than 1.0 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 4 with second-digit (liquid) level 7.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP34
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP47
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP34
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP47
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP34
No
IP47
No
Water-jet resistant
IP34
No
IP47
Yes
Submersible
IP34
No
IP47
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP34
Yes
IP47
Yes
The exact difference (IP34 vs IP47)
Solid protection
IP34
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP47
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP34 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IP47 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4). IP47 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP34
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP47
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP34 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)), while IP47 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)). IP47 provides 3 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP47 offers higher overall protection than IP34. Choose IP47 for harsher environments; IP34 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.