IP40 vs IP48
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP40 and IP48 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 0 vs 8). IP40 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and no protection, while IP48 provides > 1 mm — small wires and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
IP40 protects against small tools and wires (1 mm objects) but offers no water protection. Useful for indoor equipment needing finer ingress protection against small debris and tools.
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)
IP40
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP48
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP40
0 — No Protection
IP48
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP40
No
IP48
No
Water-jet resistant
IP40
No
IP48
Yes
Submersible
IP40
No
IP48
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP40
No
IP48
Yes
The exact difference (IP40 vs IP48)
Solid protection
IP40
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP48
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Both IP40 and IP48 share the same solid protection: > 1 mm — Small Wires.
Liquid protection
IP40
Level 0 — No Protection
IP48
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP40 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP48 provides "Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)" (level 8). IP48 is 8 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP48 offers higher overall protection than IP40. Choose IP48 for harsher environments; IP40 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.