IP08 vs IP40
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP08 and IP40 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 4) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 0). IP08 is rated for no protection and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP40 provides > 1 mm — small wires and no protection.
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.
IP40 protects against small tools and wires (1 mm objects) but offers no water protection. Useful for indoor equipment needing finer ingress protection against small debris and tools.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP08
0 — No Protection
IP40
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP08
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP40
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP08
No
IP40
No
Water-jet resistant
IP08
Yes
IP40
No
Submersible
IP08
Yes
IP40
No
Outdoor suitable
IP08
Yes
IP40
No
The exact difference (IP08 vs IP40)
Solid protection
IP08
Level 0 — No Protection
IP40
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP08 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP40 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4). IP40 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP08
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP40
Level 0 — No Protection
IP08 provides "Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)" (level 8), while IP40 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP08 is 8 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP08 offers higher overall protection than IP40. Choose IP08 for harsher environments; IP40 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.