NEMA versus IP ratings

Why do enclosures have NEMA and IP ratings

Terms like “waterproof” and “sealed” are ambiguous. Users need to know “exactly how waterproof?” Does the enclosure protect against dripping water only or against complete submersion? Users need a way to be sure that moisture, dust and other contaminants will not damage the electronic and electrical components of their products. 

That’s why Blue-White enclosures are rated based on their ability to withstand a va

rying degree of environmental elements, including dust, water, and ice.   

The following table summarizes the various NEMA number designations 

Comparison of IP and NEMA ratings

Both NEMA ratings and IP ratings work equally well at describing the level of environmental protection an enclosure will provide. For equipment intended to be used in the United States, NEMA ratings have been preferred. Because Blue-White exports to Europe and other countries, we also use IP ratings.  

The standard format for an IP rating is “IP’ followed by two numbers which designate the level of protection. The first digit, which ranges from 1-6, specifies the level of protection from solids, and the second digit, which ranges from 1-8, specifies the level of protection from water. 

The higher the number is, the greater the level of protection. For instance, an enclosure with a rating of IP10 would offer less protection than an enclosure that is rated at IP54. 

There is not a direct correlation between NEMA ratings and IP ratings, as the two systems are based on a different set of variables. However, the tables below show an approximate cross reference that can be used to help determine the IP number that meets or exceeds a particular NEMA rating. 

The following table summarizes the various IP number designations 

NEMA vs IP Ratings Table