IP54 vs IP04
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP54 and IP04 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 5 vs 0). IP54 is rated for dust-protected and splashing water (all directions), while IP04 provides no protection and splashing water (all directions).
IP54 is dust-protected (limited ingress, no harmful deposit) and resists splashing water from any direction. A versatile rating for industrial and outdoor-covered equipment in dusty, damp environments.
The IP04 rating offers no protection against solid objects and protection against splashing water. Water splashed against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 0 with second-digit (liquid) level 4.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP54
5 — Dust-Protected
IP04
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP54
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP04
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP54
Limited
IP04
No
Water-jet resistant
IP54
No
IP04
No
Submersible
IP54
No
IP04
No
Outdoor suitable
IP54
Yes
IP04
Yes
The exact difference (IP54 vs IP04)
Solid protection
IP54
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP04
Level 0 — No Protection
IP54 provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5), while IP04 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP54 is 5 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP54
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP04
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Both IP54 and IP04 share the same liquid protection: Splashing Water (all directions).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP54 offers higher overall protection than IP04. Choose IP54 for harsher environments; IP04 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.