IP04 vs IP18
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP04 and IP18 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 1) and liquid protection (level 4 vs 8). IP04 is rated for no protection and splashing water (all directions), while IP18 provides > 50 mm — back of hand and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
The IP04 rating offers no protection against solid objects and protection against splashing water. Water splashed against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 0 with second-digit (liquid) level 4.
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)
IP04
0 — No Protection
IP18
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP04
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP18
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP04
No
IP18
No
Water-jet resistant
IP04
No
IP18
Yes
Submersible
IP04
No
IP18
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP04
Yes
IP18
Yes
The exact difference (IP04 vs IP18)
Solid protection
IP04
Level 0 — No Protection
IP18
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP04 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP18 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1). IP18 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP04
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP18
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP04 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)), while IP18 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP18 provides 4 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP18 offers higher overall protection than IP04. Choose IP18 for harsher environments; IP04 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.