IP06 vs IP16
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP06 and IP16 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 1). IP06 is rated for no protection and powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle), while IP16 provides > 50 mm — back of hand and powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle).
With IP06, an enclosure receives no protection against solid objects and protection against powerful water jets. Water projected in powerful jets by a 12.5 mm nozzle against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 0 with second-digit (liquid) level 6.
IP16 is an ingress protection code that ensures protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against powerful water jets. Water projected in powerful jets by a 12.5 mm nozzle against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 1 with second-digit (liquid) level 6.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP06
0 — No Protection
IP16
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP06
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP16
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP06
No
IP16
No
Water-jet resistant
IP06
Yes
IP16
Yes
Submersible
IP06
No
IP16
No
Outdoor suitable
IP06
Yes
IP16
Yes
The exact difference (IP06 vs IP16)
Solid protection
IP06
Level 0 — No Protection
IP16
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP06 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP16 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1). IP16 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP06
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP16
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
Both IP06 and IP16 share the same liquid protection: Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP16 offers higher overall protection than IP06. Choose IP16 for harsher environments; IP06 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.