IP44 is a widely used ingress protection rating for electrical enclosures and control panels. Defined by the international IEC 60529 standard, the IP rating system helps determine how well a cabinet or box resists the intrusion of solids and liquids. An IP44-rated cabinet is suitable for many indoor and semi-outdoor applications, providing a reliable balance of dust and water resistance.
What Does IP44 Mean?
The IP44 code consists of two digits:
- 4 (first digit) – Protection against solid objects larger than 1 mm, such as wires or small tools.
- 4 (second digit) – Protection against water splashing from all directions.
This means IP44 enclosures are well-protected from accidental contact and splashing water, but not from high-pressure jets or full immersion.
Example Use Case Image
This type of cabinet is often used in commercial buildings, industrial facilities, and areas that may be exposed to moisture but not heavy rain or water jets.
Common Applications of IP44 Enclosures
- Low voltage switchgear in factories and warehouses
- Power distribution boards in commercial buildings
- Electrical control boxes in indoor swimming pool zones
- Light fixtures in hotel bathrooms or kitchens
- Wall-mounted enclosures in metro stations or covered outdoor spaces
IP44 vs Other IP Ratings
| IP Rating | Solid Object Protection | Water Protection | Application Environment |
|---|---|---|---|
| IP20 | >12.5mm (fingers) | No protection | Indoor only |
| IP33 | >2.5mm | Light spray | Light-duty use |
| IP44 | >1mm | Splashing water | Semi-outdoor, indoor damp |
| IP54 | Dust-protected | Splashing water | Light outdoor use |
| IP65 | Dust-tight | Water jets | Harsh outdoor or industrial |
Compliance & Certification
IP44 is standardized under IEC 60529 and is commonly referenced in:
- CE certifications for export to Europe
- EN 62208 for empty enclosures
- UL Type 3R/12 equivalent in the U.S.
- NEMA enclosure ratings for North America
Top global manufacturers such as Schneider Electric, Siemens, and ABB include IP44 cabinets in their product lines.
Advantages of IP44 Enclosures
- Good basic protection for general-purpose use
- Suitable for environments with condensation, dripping, or occasional splashes
- Widely accepted by international codes and standards
- Cost-effective compared to higher IP ratings like IP65/IP66
- Ideal for both plastic and metal cabinet designs
When to Choose IP44
Use IP44 if:
- Your equipment is indoors or under partial shelter
- Exposure to water is limited to accidental splashes
- You need a cabinet that prevents access to live components
- Cost and weight savings are important for the application
Avoid IP44 in:
- Heavy rain, jet water, or wash-down environments
- Outdoor applications with dust storms or direct sunlight
- Environments requiring sealed or pressurized enclosures
FAQ
A: Only in protected outdoor environments such as under a canopy or inside a weatherproof enclosure. For direct exposure, use IP65 or higher.
A: No. IP44 offers splash resistance but does not protect against water jets or immersion.
A: IP54 adds dust protection, making it more suitable for environments with airborne particles or light dust exposure.
IP44 is a versatile ingress protection rating that suits many light-industrial and commercial applications. It provides reliable protection against tools, wires, and splashes, and complies with major international standards. For manufacturers like PINEELE, offering IP44-rated electrical cabinets guide ensures compatibility with both indoor and semi-outdoor use, especially in export markets across Europe, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East.
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