IP08 vs IP15
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP08 and IP15 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 1) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 5). IP08 is rated for no protection and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP15 provides > 50 mm — back of hand and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
Built to withstand no protection against solid objects and protection against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP08, it pairs solid level 0 with liquid level 8.
With IP15, an enclosure receives protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against water jets. Water projected by a 6.3 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 1 with second-digit (liquid) level 5.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP08
0 — No Protection
IP15
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP08
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP15
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP08
No
IP15
No
Water-jet resistant
IP08
Yes
IP15
Yes
Submersible
IP08
Yes
IP15
No
Outdoor suitable
IP08
Yes
IP15
Yes
The exact difference (IP08 vs IP15)
Solid protection
IP08
Level 0 — No Protection
IP15
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP08 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP15 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1). IP15 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP08
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP15
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP08 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP15 handles 30 kPa (Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)). IP08 provides 3 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP08 offers higher overall protection than IP15. Choose IP08 for harsher environments; IP15 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.