IP16 vs IP36
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP16 and IP36 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 3). IP16 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle), while IP36 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle).
IP16 is an ingress protection code that ensures protection against solid objects larger than 50 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 1 with second-digit (liquid) level 6.
The IP36 classification guarantees protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 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 3 with second-digit (liquid) level 6.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP16
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP36
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP16
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP36
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP16
No
IP36
No
Water-jet resistant
IP16
Yes
IP36
Yes
Submersible
IP16
No
IP36
No
Outdoor suitable
IP16
Yes
IP36
Yes
The exact difference (IP16 vs IP36)
Solid protection
IP16
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP36
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP16 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1), while IP36 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP36 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP16
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP36
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
Both IP16 and IP36 share the same liquid protection: Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP36 offers higher overall protection than IP16. Choose IP36 for harsher environments; IP16 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.