IP16 vs IP17
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP16 and IP17 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 6 vs 7). IP16 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle), while IP17 provides > 50 mm — back of hand and temporary immersion (up to 1 m).
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.
Built to withstand protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against the effects of temporary immersion in water. Ingress of water in quantities causing harmful effects shall not be possible.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP17, it pairs solid level 1 with liquid level 7.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP16
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP17
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP16
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP17
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP16
No
IP17
No
Water-jet resistant
IP16
Yes
IP17
Yes
Submersible
IP16
No
IP17
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP16
Yes
IP17
Yes
The exact difference (IP16 vs IP17)
Solid protection
IP16
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP17
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Both IP16 and IP17 share the same solid protection: > 50 mm — Back of Hand.
Liquid protection
IP16
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP17
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP16 handles 100 kPa (Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)), while IP17 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)). IP17 provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP17 offers higher overall protection than IP16. Choose IP17 for harsher environments; IP16 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.