The protective capability of waterproof sockets is usually indicated by the IP rating. The two digits following the IP represent the dust-proof and water-proof capabilities respectively. The larger the number, the stronger the protection. When it comes to foreign trade exports, project selection, and outdoor power distribution, the IP rating directly determines whether the product can be safely used and whether it meets the certification requirements.
IP44 is the most fundamental waterproof rating for both civil and light industrial use, and it is also the standard for indoor damp environments such as bathrooms and balconies. The first digit 4 indicates that it can prevent solid foreign objects with a diameter greater than 1mm from entering and has basic dust-proof capabilities. The second digit 4 indicates that it can protect against splashing water from any direction, such as water splashes, splashing water, and light rain splashes, but it cannot withstand direct water flow or immersion. The IP44 waterproof socket is suitable for environments such as in front of the bathroom mirror, on the balcony washing machine, on the kitchen counter, in the indoor garage, and in ordinary shops. It mainly prevents daily water splashes from getting wet and is not suitable for long-term exposure to rain. This type of socket usually has a common flip cover in appearance, is compact in size, and is the most commonly used grade in damp areas of civilian use, with a high cost performance.
IP54 has enhanced its dust-proof performance on the basis of IP44, and its protective capability is more suitable for light industrial environments. Dust-proof grade 5 means that it can prevent the accumulation of harmful dust. Even if a small amount of dust enters, it will not affect normal use. The waterproof rating is also 4, and it is resistant to splashing water. The IP54 waterproof socket is suitable for semi-open Spaces such as factory workshops, warehouses, the exterior of general equipment control cabinets, shop entrances, and non-motorized vehicle sheds. It can handle slight humidity, a small amount of dust, and daily splashing water. It is more durable than IP44 and is suitable for indoor and semi-indoor scenarios with certain dust-proof requirements but no strong water flow impact. It is a commonly used grade in the transition section between industry and civil use and is compatible with most light working conditions.
IP55 is the entry-level grade for outdoor use and is also a very commonly used model in engineering. The waterproof rating has been upgraded to 5, capable of protecting against low-pressure water jets from any direction. Even if a water gun is used for low-pressure flushing, no water will enter. The IP55 waterproof socket can be used in outdoor corridors, around charging piles in residential areas, for courtyard lighting, small outdoor equipment, temporary distribution boxes at construction sites, etc. It can withstand daily rain erosion and cleaning, and has all-weather basic protection. It is equipped with a sealing gasket and a flip-top waterproof box, featuring a more robust structure. It is suitable for long-term operation in open-air environments and is the mainstream choice for outdoor scenarios without direct strong light or high water pressure. It is also a grade with a relatively large demand in foreign trade exports.
IP65 is a high-level dust-proof and water-proof rating. It achieves a dust-proof level of 6, meaning it is completely dust-proof and no dust can enter the casing. Its water-proof level remains at 5, and it is resistant to low-pressure jet. The IP65 waterproof socket is suitable for harsh industrial environments, outdoor power stations, municipal projects, heavy equipment on construction sites, breeding farms, chemical plants and other scenarios with a lot of dust, high humidity and water mist. It can work for a long time in the open air under the wind and rain, is not afraid of dust accumulation and high-pressure cleaning, and has extremely strong safety and stability. This grade of socket has a tight sealing structure and is mostly made of flame-retardant and anti-aging engineering plastics. It is suitable for projects with high requirements for safety and service life and is a commonly used configuration for industrial electrical and outdoor complete sets of equipment.
IP66 and above are classified as ultra-high protection levels, capable of withstanding strong water flow impacts and wave splashes. Some IP67 and IP68 models can also be submerged for short periods or operate underwater for long periods. The IP66 waterproof socket is suitable for extremely harsh environments such as ports and docks, ship decks, outdoor large machinery, open-pit mines, and highway facilities. It can withstand extreme conditions such as heavy rain, waves, and high-pressure water gun flushing. This type of product has a heavy structure, tight sealing, and is made of materials that are resistant to ultraviolet rays, corrosion, and impact. It is mostly used in special scenarios and professional engineering projects. Although its price is relatively high, its safety and durability are at the top level.
When selecting the model, the following can be followed: Choose IP44/IP54 for indoor humidity, IP55 for ordinary outdoor use, IP65 for industrial dusty outdoor use, and IP66 or above for extremely harsh environments.