IP18 vs IP26
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP18 and IP26 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 2) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 6). IP18 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP26 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle).
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.
Built to withstand protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 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.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP26, it pairs solid level 2 with liquid level 6.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP18
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP26
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP18
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP26
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP18
No
IP26
No
Water-jet resistant
IP18
Yes
IP26
Yes
Submersible
IP18
Yes
IP26
No
Outdoor suitable
IP18
Yes
IP26
Yes
The exact difference (IP18 vs IP26)
Solid protection
IP18
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP26
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP18 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1), while IP26 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP26 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP18
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP26
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP18 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP26 handles 100 kPa (Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)). IP18 provides 2 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP18 offers higher overall protection than IP26. Choose IP18 for harsher environments; IP26 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.