IP37 vs IP47
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP37 and IP47 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 4). IP37 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and temporary immersion (up to 1 m), while IP47 provides > 1 mm — small wires and temporary immersion (up to 1 m).
Specified under IEC 60529, IP37 denotes protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 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 3 with second-digit (liquid) level 7.
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)
IP37
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP47
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP37
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP47
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP37
No
IP47
No
Water-jet resistant
IP37
Yes
IP47
Yes
Submersible
IP37
Yes
IP47
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP37
Yes
IP47
Yes
The exact difference (IP37 vs IP47)
Solid protection
IP37
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP47
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP37 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IP47 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4). IP47 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP37
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP47
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Both IP37 and IP47 share the same liquid protection: Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP47 offers higher overall protection than IP37. Choose IP47 for harsher environments; IP37 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.