IP00 vs IP18
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP00 and IP18 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 1) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 8). IP00 is rated for no protection and no protection, while IP18 provides > 50 mm — back of hand and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
IP00 offers no protection against solid objects or moisture. It is suitable only for indoor, climate-controlled environments where the equipment is fully enclosed within another protective housing.
The IP18 classification guarantees protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 1 with second-digit (liquid) level 8.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP00
0 — No Protection
IP18
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP00
0 — No Protection
IP18
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP00
No
IP18
No
Water-jet resistant
IP00
No
IP18
Yes
Submersible
IP00
No
IP18
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP00
No
IP18
Yes
The exact difference (IP00 vs IP18)
Solid protection
IP00
Level 0 — No Protection
IP18
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP00 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP18 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1). IP18 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP00
Level 0 — No Protection
IP18
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP00 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP18 provides "Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)" (level 8). IP18 is 8 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP18 offers higher overall protection than IP00. Choose IP18 for harsher environments; IP00 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.