IP03 vs IP48
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP03 and IP48 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 4) and liquid protection (level 3 vs 8). IP03 is rated for no protection and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP48 provides > 1 mm — small wires and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
Designed for environments requiring no protection against solid objects and protection against spraying water. Water sprayed at an angle up to 60° on either side of the vertical shall have no harmful effects., IP03 is an IEC 60529 code combining solid level 0 with liquid level 3.
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)
IP03
0 — No Protection
IP48
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP03
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP48
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP03
No
IP48
No
Water-jet resistant
IP03
No
IP48
Yes
Submersible
IP03
No
IP48
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP03
No
IP48
Yes
The exact difference (IP03 vs IP48)
Solid protection
IP03
Level 0 — No Protection
IP48
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP03 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP48 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4). IP48 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP03
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP48
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP03 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)), while IP48 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP48 provides 5 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP48 offers higher overall protection than IP03. Choose IP48 for harsher environments; IP03 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.