The IP Code is an international standard developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission. It measures the level of protection and seal of a material, object, or in this case, a protective case.
The IP rating always follows the same format: the letters IP followed by two digits (ex. IP23). These two digits each have their specific meaning and reveal important information about a transportation case’s protection.
What exactly do these numbers mean? Find out in this article.
First IP rating digit: protection against solids
The first IP rating digit indicates a packaging‘s protection level against solid particles, such as dust. This can be valuable for someone looking to purchase a case to protect camera and lenses, which must always be kept away from dust particles.
This number is based on a scale of 0 to 6, each number briefly described by the following criteria:
- 0: No protection against solid objects
- 1: Protection against solid objects with a diameter greater than or equal to 50mm
- 2: Protection against solid objects with a diameter greater than or equal to 12.5mm
- 3: Protection against solid objects with a diameter greater than or equal to 2.5mm
- 4: Protection against solid objects with a diameter greater than or equal to 1mm
- 5: Protection against dust and other microscopic residue
- 6: Complete protection against all solids
Second IP rating digit: protection against water ingress
The second IP rating digit measures a waterproof container or object’s protection against water ingress. You should pay attention to this number if you need a weather-resistant protective case.
This number is based on a scale of 0 to 8 and works similarly to the previous scale:
- 0: No protection against water ingress
- 1: Protection against vertical water drops
- 2: Protection against water dropping at an angle of 15° or less
- 3: Protection against water dropping at an angle of 60° or less
- 4: Protection against water from any direction
- 5: Protection against water jets
- 6: Protection against high-flow water jets
- 7: Protection against temporary water immersion
- 8: Protection against prolonged water immersion
Waterproof cases and IP ratings in practice
IP ratings can seem confusing in theory, so here are some examples of these ratings in practice using some of Creopack’s products.
The Nanuk waterproof hard case is a watertight case with an IP67 rating. This case therefore protects its contents against all solid particles (6) and 30-minute water immersions (7). This case is ideal to keep any equipment dry and safe from dust.
Pelican cases also have an IP67 rating. Pelican guarantees the waterproofing of its cases up to a depth of 1 meter (3’3) and for a duration of 30 minutes.
Custom waterproof cases: Creopack’s specialty
The IP Code rates the ability of waterproof cases to protect their contents from solid particles and water ingress. This rating is useful for those looking for a damage-proof case to carry fragile objects.
Are you looking for transportation cases for your products, but are uncertain of the protection rating you need? Creopack’s packaging consultants offer valuable advice and recommend custom solutions for your needs.
Contact us to get a quote or know more about our services.