IP43 vs IP09K
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP43 and IP09K are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 3 vs 9K). IP43 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP09K provides no protection and high-pressure, high-temp water jets.
IP43 protects against 1 mm solid objects and spraying water up to 60° from vertical. A practical rating for sheltered equipment subject to light angled spray, such as covered outdoor fixtures.
The IP09K rating offers no protection against solid objects and resistance to high-pressure (8–10 MPa), high-temperature (80 °C) water jets. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 0 with second-digit (liquid) level 9K.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP43
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP09K
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP43
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP09K
9 — High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets
Dust-tight
IP43
No
IP09K
No
Water-jet resistant
IP43
No
IP09K
Yes
Submersible
IP43
No
IP09K
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP43
No
IP09K
Yes
The exact difference (IP43 vs IP09K)
Solid protection
IP43
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP09K
Level 0 — No Protection
IP43 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IP09K provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP43 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP43
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP09K
Level 9 — High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets
IP43 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)), while IP09K handles 8–10 MPa (High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets). IP09K provides 6 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP09K offers higher overall protection than IP43. Choose IP09K for harsher environments; IP43 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.