IP46 vs IP68
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP46 and IP68 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 6) and liquid protection (level 6 vs 8). IP46 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle), while IP68 provides dust-tight and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
Specified under IEC 60529, IP46 denotes protection against solid objects larger than 1.0 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 4 with second-digit (liquid) level 6.
IP68 is dust-tight and protects against continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer (typically deeper than 1 meter for prolonged periods). The standard for submersible and marine equipment.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP46
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP68
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP46
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP68
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP46
No
IP68
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP46
Yes
IP68
Yes
Submersible
IP46
No
IP68
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP46
Yes
IP68
Yes
The exact difference (IP46 vs IP68)
Solid protection
IP46
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP68
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP46 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IP68 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP68 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP46
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP68
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP46 handles 100 kPa (Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)), while IP68 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP68 provides 2 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP68 offers higher overall protection than IP46. Choose IP68 for harsher environments; IP46 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.