SOLUTION

For underwater applications, an electrical light fitting must be completely protected against water ingress, even when submerged. The IP (Ingress Protection) rating indicates the level of protection against solids and liquids.

Structure of IP Rating

• First Digit: This digit indicates the level of protection against solid objects (such as dust). It can range from 0 to 6:

• • 0: No protection
  • 1: Protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm
  • 2: Protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm
  • 3: Protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 mm
  • 4: Protection against solid objects larger than 1.0 mm
  • 5: Limited protection against dust (dust ingress is limited)
  • 6: Totally dust-tight

• Second Digit: This digit indicates the level of protection against liquids (such as water). It can range from 0 to 9:

• • 0: No protection
  • 1: Protection against vertically falling water drops
  • 2: Protection against water drops falling at a specific angle
  • 3: Protection against rain or spray
  • 4: Protection against splashing water from all directions
  • 5: Protection against water jets (low pressure)
  • 6: Protection against powerful water jets or seawater
  • 7: Protection against temporary immersion in water
  • 8: Protection against continuous immersion in water
  • 9: Protection against high-pressure and high-temperature water jets