IP15 vs IP38
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP15 and IP38 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 3) and liquid protection (level 5 vs 8). IP15 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle), while IP38 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
With IP15, an enclosure receives protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against water jets. Water projected by a 6.3 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 1 with second-digit (liquid) level 5.
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)
IP15
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP38
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP15
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP38
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP15
No
IP38
No
Water-jet resistant
IP15
Yes
IP38
Yes
Submersible
IP15
No
IP38
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP15
Yes
IP38
Yes
The exact difference (IP15 vs IP38)
Solid protection
IP15
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP38
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP15 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1), while IP38 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP38 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP15
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP38
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP15 handles 30 kPa (Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)), while IP38 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP38 provides 3 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP38 offers higher overall protection than IP15. Choose IP38 for harsher environments; IP15 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.