IP08 vs IP18
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP08 and IP18 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 1). IP08 is rated for no protection and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP18 provides > 50 mm — back of hand and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
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.
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)
IP08
0 — No Protection
IP18
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP08
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP18
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP08
No
IP18
No
Water-jet resistant
IP08
Yes
IP18
Yes
Submersible
IP08
Yes
IP18
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP08
Yes
IP18
Yes
The exact difference (IP08 vs IP18)
Solid protection
IP08
Level 0 — No Protection
IP18
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP08 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP18 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1). IP18 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP08
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP18
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Both IP08 and IP18 share the same liquid protection: Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP18 offers higher overall protection than IP08. Choose IP18 for harsher environments; IP08 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.