IP18 vs IP38
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP18 and IP38 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 3). IP18 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP38 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
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.
IP38 provides protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 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 3 with second-digit (liquid) level 8.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP18
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP38
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP18
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP38
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP18
No
IP38
No
Water-jet resistant
IP18
Yes
IP38
Yes
Submersible
IP18
Yes
IP38
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP18
Yes
IP38
Yes
The exact difference (IP18 vs IP38)
Solid protection
IP18
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP38
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP18 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1), while IP38 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP38 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP18
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP38
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Both IP18 and IP38 share the same liquid protection: Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP38 offers higher overall protection than IP18. Choose IP38 for harsher environments; IP18 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.