IP34 vs IP48
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP34 and IP48 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 4) and liquid protection (level 4 vs 8). IP34 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and splashing water (all directions), while IP48 provides > 1 mm — small wires and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
IP34 is an ingress protection code that ensures protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 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 3 with second-digit (liquid) level 4.
Engineered to deliver protection against solid objects larger than 1.0 mm and protection against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP48, it pairs solid level 4 with liquid level 8.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP34
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP48
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP34
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP48
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP34
No
IP48
No
Water-jet resistant
IP34
No
IP48
Yes
Submersible
IP34
No
IP48
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP34
Yes
IP48
Yes
The exact difference (IP34 vs IP48)
Solid protection
IP34
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP48
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP34 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IP48 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4). IP48 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP34
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP48
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP34 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)), while IP48 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP48 provides 4 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP48 offers higher overall protection than IP34. Choose IP48 for harsher environments; IP34 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.