IP17 vs IP48
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP17 and IP48 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 4) and liquid protection (level 7 vs 8). IP17 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and temporary immersion (up to 1 m), while IP48 provides > 1 mm — small wires and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
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.
Engineered to deliver protection against solid objects larger than 1.0 mm and protection against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP48, it pairs solid level 4 with liquid level 8.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP17
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP48
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP17
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP48
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP17
No
IP48
No
Water-jet resistant
IP17
Yes
IP48
Yes
Submersible
IP17
Yes
IP48
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP17
Yes
IP48
Yes
The exact difference (IP17 vs IP48)
Solid protection
IP17
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP48
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP17 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1), while IP48 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4). IP48 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP17
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP48
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP17 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)), while IP48 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP48 provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP48 offers higher overall protection than IP17. Choose IP48 for harsher environments; IP17 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.