IP02 vs IP12
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP02 and IP12 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 1). IP02 is rated for no protection and dripping water at 15° tilt, while IP12 provides > 50 mm — back of hand and dripping water at 15° tilt.
Engineered to deliver no protection against solid objects and protection against vertically falling drops of water when the enclosure is tilted up to 15° from its normal position.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP02, it pairs solid level 0 with liquid level 2.
Designed for environments requiring protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against vertically falling drops of water when the enclosure is tilted up to 15° from its normal position., IP12 is an IEC 60529 code combining solid level 1 with liquid level 2.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP02
0 — No Protection
IP12
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP02
2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
IP12
2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
Dust-tight
IP02
No
IP12
No
Water-jet resistant
IP02
No
IP12
No
Submersible
IP02
No
IP12
No
Outdoor suitable
IP02
No
IP12
No
The exact difference (IP02 vs IP12)
Solid protection
IP02
Level 0 — No Protection
IP12
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP02 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP12 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1). IP12 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP02
Level 2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
IP12
Level 2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
Both IP02 and IP12 share the same liquid protection: Dripping Water at 15° Tilt.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP12 offers higher overall protection than IP02. Choose IP12 for harsher environments; IP02 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.