IP06 vs IP18
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP06 and IP18 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 1) and liquid protection (level 6 vs 8). IP06 is rated for no protection and powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle), while IP18 provides > 50 mm — back of hand and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
With IP06, an enclosure receives no protection against solid objects and protection against powerful water jets. Water projected in powerful jets by a 12.5 mm nozzle 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 6.
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)
IP06
0 — No Protection
IP18
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP06
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP18
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP06
No
IP18
No
Water-jet resistant
IP06
Yes
IP18
Yes
Submersible
IP06
No
IP18
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP06
Yes
IP18
Yes
The exact difference (IP06 vs IP18)
Solid protection
IP06
Level 0 — No Protection
IP18
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP06 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP18 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1). IP18 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP06
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP18
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP06 handles 100 kPa (Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)), while IP18 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP18 provides 2 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP18 offers higher overall protection than IP06. Choose IP18 for harsher environments; IP06 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.