IP16 vs IP18
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP16 and IP18 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 6 vs 8). IP16 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle), while IP18 provides > 50 mm — back of hand and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
IP16 is an ingress protection code that ensures protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm 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 1 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)
IP16
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP18
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP16
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP18
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP16
No
IP18
No
Water-jet resistant
IP16
Yes
IP18
Yes
Submersible
IP16
No
IP18
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP16
Yes
IP18
Yes
The exact difference (IP16 vs IP18)
Solid protection
IP16
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP18
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Both IP16 and IP18 share the same solid protection: > 50 mm — Back of Hand.
Liquid protection
IP16
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP18
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP16 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 IP16. Choose IP18 for harsher environments; IP16 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.