IP38 vs IP45
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP38 and IP45 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 4) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 5). IP38 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP45 provides > 1 mm — small wires and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
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.
IP45 protects against 1 mm solid objects and low-pressure water jets (6.3 mm nozzle, 30 kPa). A mid-range indoor/outdoor-covered rating for equipment that may be rinsed or hosed gently.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP38
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP45
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP38
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP45
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP38
No
IP45
No
Water-jet resistant
IP38
Yes
IP45
Yes
Submersible
IP38
Yes
IP45
No
Outdoor suitable
IP38
Yes
IP45
Yes
The exact difference (IP38 vs IP45)
Solid protection
IP38
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP45
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP38 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IP45 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4). IP45 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP38
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP45
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP38 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP45 handles 30 kPa (Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)). IP38 provides 3 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP38 offers higher overall protection than IP45. Choose IP38 for harsher environments; IP45 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.