IP06 vs IP34
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP06 and IP34 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 3) and liquid protection (level 6 vs 4). IP06 is rated for no protection and powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle), while IP34 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and splashing water (all directions).
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.
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.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP06
0 — No Protection
IP34
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP06
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP34
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP06
No
IP34
No
Water-jet resistant
IP06
Yes
IP34
No
Submersible
IP06
No
IP34
No
Outdoor suitable
IP06
Yes
IP34
Yes
The exact difference (IP06 vs IP34)
Solid protection
IP06
Level 0 — No Protection
IP34
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP06 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP34 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP34 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP06
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP34
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP06 handles 100 kPa (Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)), while IP34 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)). IP06 provides 2 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP34 offers higher overall protection than IP06. Choose IP34 for harsher environments; IP06 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.