IP28 vs IP47
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP28 and IP47 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 4) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 7). IP28 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP47 provides > 1 mm — small wires and temporary immersion (up to 1 m).
Specified under IEC 60529, IP28 denotes protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 8.
IP47 provides protection against solid objects larger than 1.0 mm and protection against the effects of temporary immersion in water. Ingress of water in quantities causing harmful effects shall not be possible.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 4 with second-digit (liquid) level 7.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP28
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP47
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP28
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP47
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP28
No
IP47
No
Water-jet resistant
IP28
Yes
IP47
Yes
Submersible
IP28
Yes
IP47
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP28
Yes
IP47
Yes
The exact difference (IP28 vs IP47)
Solid protection
IP28
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP47
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP28 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP47 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4). IP47 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP28
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP47
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP28 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP47 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)). IP28 provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP47 offers higher overall protection than IP28. Choose IP47 for harsher environments; IP28 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.