IP18 vs IP24
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP18 and IP24 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 2) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 4). IP18 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP24 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and splashing water (all directions).
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.
With IP24, an enclosure receives protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against splashing water. Water splashed against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 4.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP18
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP24
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP18
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP24
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
Dust-tight
IP18
No
IP24
No
Water-jet resistant
IP18
Yes
IP24
No
Submersible
IP18
Yes
IP24
No
Outdoor suitable
IP18
Yes
IP24
Yes
The exact difference (IP18 vs IP24)
Solid protection
IP18
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP24
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP18 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1), while IP24 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP24 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP18
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP24
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP18 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP24 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)). IP18 provides 4 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP18 offers higher overall protection than IP24. Choose IP18 for harsher environments; IP24 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.