IP36 vs IPX8
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP36 and IPX8 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 6 vs 8). IP36 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle), while IPX8 provides no protection and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
The IP36 classification guarantees protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 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.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 3 with second-digit (liquid) level 6.
IPX8 protects against continuous immersion under manufacturer-specified conditions (depth and duration), with solid protection not specified. The standard for submersible consumer electronics.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP36
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IPX8
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP36
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IPX8
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP36
No
IPX8
No
Water-jet resistant
IP36
Yes
IPX8
Yes
Submersible
IP36
No
IPX8
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP36
Yes
IPX8
Yes
The exact difference (IP36 vs IPX8)
Solid protection
IP36
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IPX8
Level 0 — No Protection
IP36 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IPX8 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP36 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP36
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IPX8
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP36 handles 100 kPa (Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)), while IPX8 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IPX8 provides 2 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP36 offers higher overall protection than IPX8. Choose IP36 for harsher environments; IPX8 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.