IP06 vs IP38
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP06 and IP38 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 3) and liquid protection (level 6 vs 8). IP06 is rated for no protection and powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle), while IP38 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
With IP06, an enclosure receives no protection against solid objects 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 0 with second-digit (liquid) level 6.
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.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP06
0 — No Protection
IP38
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP06
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP38
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP06
No
IP38
No
Water-jet resistant
IP06
Yes
IP38
Yes
Submersible
IP06
No
IP38
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP06
Yes
IP38
Yes
The exact difference (IP06 vs IP38)
Solid protection
IP06
Level 0 — No Protection
IP38
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP06 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP38 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP38 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP06
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP38
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP06 handles 100 kPa (Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)), while IP38 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP38 provides 2 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP38 offers higher overall protection than IP06. Choose IP38 for harsher environments; IP06 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.