IP43 vs IP47
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP43 and IP47 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 3 vs 7). IP43 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP47 provides > 1 mm — small wires and temporary immersion (up to 1 m).
IP43 protects against 1 mm solid objects and spraying water up to 60° from vertical. A practical rating for sheltered equipment subject to light angled spray, such as covered outdoor fixtures.
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)
IP43
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP47
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP43
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP47
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP43
No
IP47
No
Water-jet resistant
IP43
No
IP47
Yes
Submersible
IP43
No
IP47
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP43
No
IP47
Yes
The exact difference (IP43 vs IP47)
Solid protection
IP43
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP47
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Both IP43 and IP47 share the same solid protection: > 1 mm — Small Wires.
Liquid protection
IP43
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP47
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP43 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)), while IP47 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)). IP47 provides 4 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP47 offers higher overall protection than IP43. Choose IP47 for harsher environments; IP43 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.