Protecting your electrical wiring starts with the right conduit. But how do you know which one is truly dustproof or waterproof? The answer is IP ratings, a two-digit code that measures protection against solids and liquids. 

Read on to learn how IP ratings work and how they help you make smart, safe choices.

What is an IP rating?

The term IP stands for Ingress Protection. This refers to a standard that must be followed when using conduit systems. It’s part of the international standard IEC 60529 (also known in the UK as BS EN 60529), which covers the protection criteria for solids and liquids. 

An IP rating is basically a two-digit code (sometimes with additional letters). It’s given to an area like an enclosure, conduit system or other covered space to show how well it protects against solid foreign objects. This includes everyday hazards such as dust, small tools, water splashes and other liquids. 

Here’s what each digit means in simple terms:

First digit (0-6): Protection against solid objects and dust.

• 0 – no protection
• 1 – objects larger than 50 mm (e.g. back of a hand)
• 2 – objects larger than 12.5 mm (e.g. finger)
• 3 – objects larger than 2.5 mm (tools, wires)
• 4 – objects larger than 1 mm (screws, wires)
• 5 – ‘dust protected’ (dust might enter but not enough to harm equipment)
• 6 – ‘dust-tight’ (no dust intrusion, full contact protection) 

Second digit (0-9): Protection against liquids (water) under different conditions.

• 0 – no protection
• 1 – dripping water vertically
• 2 – dripping water when tilted up to 15 degrees
• 3 – spraying water up to 60 degrees from vertical
• 4 – splashing water from any direction
• 5 – water jets, low pressure
• 6 – strong water jets, high pressure
• 7 – immersion under water (up to ~1 m)
• 8 – immersion beyond 1 m / prolonged immersion
• 9K – high-pressure, high-temperature jets (often industrial) 

So, for example, an IP rating of IP65 means ‘dust protected (5)’ and ‘resistant to water jets (5)’ and IP67 means ‘dust-tight (6)’ and ‘immersion up to 1 m (7)’.

How IP ratings are tested

Conduits don’t just get their IP ratings straight away. They have to earn them through controlled testing. 

For dust protection, conduits are placed in sealed chambers containing fine powder to check if any particles enter. For water resistance, they’re exposed to a series of tests that include spraying, splashing and immersion under set conditions. Each stage increases in intensity, from light drips to high-pressure water jets, following the strict IEC 60529 standard. 

These tests check that the rating reflects how well the conduit protects against solids and liquids. When you see an IP-certified conduit, you know it’s been tested and proven.

Difference between dust protection and waterproofing

Dust protection and waterproofing measure different types of protection. Dust protection keeps out things like sand or grit that can damage electrical parts and waterproofing prevents moisture from entering through rain, sprays or immersion. They’re both rated separately, so remember that a dustproof system isn’t automatically waterproof.

Choose the conduit that will best match your environment. One that gives basic protection for dry areas, stronger sealing for wet zones and full waterproofing for underground projects. 

Maintaining your IP ratings

Getting a high IP rating is great, but how do you keep it? Read on for some top tips to help you maintain the best protection. 

• Choose the right material – Make sure the conduit and fittings match the environment.
• Seal joints properly – Use the correct fittings and follow the instructions. 
• Support and align runs properly – Avoid bends or stress that could create a gap at the joints. 
• Match all the components – Boxes, covers and accessories have to meet the same IP rating as the conduit.
• Inspect regularly – Check for cracks, missing fittings and any other damage that could let dust or water in.
• Clean and replace seals – Dirt or corrosion can easily weaken seals, so it’s important to maintain them regularly.
• Watch for aging – UV, chemicals, vibration and temperature changes can wear down protection over time.

Top tip – Keep a simple record of inspections and replace any worn parts promptly. Making small, regular efforts will go a long way in maintaining your IP rating and extending your conduit’s shelf life.

How material choice affects water and dust resistance 

The material you choose for your conduit plays a big role in keeping dust and water out. Strong, durable materials protect seals, maintain joints and ensure your system performs well, no matter the environment. 

Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the right option.

Rigid PVC conduit – Easy to install, rigid PVC can be used both indoor and outdoor. It offers good chemical resistance and is cost effective – although it does have less impact and temperature tolerance. 

Nylon conduit – Tough and flexible, nylon has great durability and is resistant to UV and chemicals. It works great in both indoor and outdoor environments, keeping its strength even when exposed to sunlight or changes in temperature. Its flexibility also makes it easier to install around tight corners or moving machinery.

Liquid-tight flexible conduit – Made for wet environments, liquid-tight flexible conduit is ideal under movement and vibration. It has a reinforced design that strengthens and helps maintain high IP ratings even under stress.

Choose smart with GTSE

Reliable dust and water protection doesn’t always mean spending more. It’s about making the right choices. It’s important to know your IP ratings and choose the best conduit for your application, leading to lasting performance. 

From durable PVC to liquid-tight systems, explore the full range of conduits at GTSE to find the perfect, long-lasting fit for your project.