IP15 vs IP18
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP15 and IP18 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 5 vs 8). IP15 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle), while IP18 provides > 50 mm — back of hand and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
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.
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)
IP15
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP18
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP15
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP18
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP15
No
IP18
No
Water-jet resistant
IP15
Yes
IP18
Yes
Submersible
IP15
No
IP18
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP15
Yes
IP18
Yes
The exact difference (IP15 vs IP18)
Solid protection
IP15
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP18
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Both IP15 and IP18 share the same solid protection: > 50 mm — Back of Hand.
Liquid protection
IP15
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP18
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP15 handles 30 kPa (Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)), while IP18 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP18 provides 3 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP18 offers higher overall protection than IP15. Choose IP18 for harsher environments; IP15 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.