The IP (Ingress Protection) rating of panels refers to the degree of protection provided by the panels against the intrusion of solid objects and liquids. The IP rating is expressed as "IP" followed by two digits (e.g., IP65), with each digit representing a specific level of protection.

The first digit in the IP rating indicates the degree of protection against solid objects such as dust and particles, while the second digit indicates the degree of protection against liquids such as water. Here's what each digit represents:

1. First Digit (Protection against Solid Objects):

   • 0: No protection against contact with or ingress of solid objects.
   • 1: Protection against solid objects larger than 50mm in diameter (e.g., hands).
   • 2: Protection against solid objects larger than 12.5mm in diameter (e.g., fingers).
   • 3: Protection against solid objects larger than 2.5mm in diameter (e.g., tools and wires).
   • 4: Protection against solid objects larger than 1mm in diameter (e.g., small tools and wires).
   • 5: Dust protected; limited ingress of dust is permitted but should not interfere with the operation of the equipment.
   • 6: Dust-tight; complete protection against dust ingress.

2. Second Digit (Protection against Liquids):

   • 0: No protection against water.
   • 1: Protection against vertically falling drops of water (e.g., condensation).
   • 2: Protection against water drops falling at an angle of up to 15 degrees from vertical.
   • 3: Protection against water sprayed at an angle of up to 60 degrees from vertical.
   • 4: Protection against water splashed from any direction.
   • 5: Protection against water jets from any direction (limited ingress permitted).
   • 6: Protection against powerful water jets and heavy seas (limited ingress permitted).
   • 7: Protection against temporary immersion in water up to 1 meter depth for 30 minutes.
   • 8: Protection against continuous immersion in water under specified conditions (depth and duration specified by the manufacturer).

For panels, such as electrical panels or control panels, the IP rating indicates the level of protection provided against environmental factors such as dust, moisture, and water ingress. The appropriate IP rating for a panel depends on the specific environmental conditions and application requirements. For example, outdoor panels or panels installed in harsh industrial environments may require a higher IP rating to ensure adequate protection against dust and water ingress.