IP03 vs IP18
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP03 and IP18 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 1) and liquid protection (level 3 vs 8). IP03 is rated for no protection and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP18 provides > 50 mm — back of hand and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
Designed for environments requiring no protection against solid objects and protection against spraying water. Water sprayed at an angle up to 60° on either side of the vertical shall have no harmful effects., IP03 is an IEC 60529 code combining solid level 0 with liquid level 3.
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)
IP03
0 — No Protection
IP18
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP03
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP18
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP03
No
IP18
No
Water-jet resistant
IP03
No
IP18
Yes
Submersible
IP03
No
IP18
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP03
No
IP18
Yes
The exact difference (IP03 vs IP18)
Solid protection
IP03
Level 0 — No Protection
IP18
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP03 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP18 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1). IP18 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP03
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP18
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP03 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)), while IP18 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP18 provides 5 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP18 offers higher overall protection than IP03. Choose IP18 for harsher environments; IP03 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.