IP18 vs IP23
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP18 and IP23 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 2) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 3). IP18 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP23 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and spraying water (up to 60°).
The IP18 classification guarantees protection against solid objects larger than 50 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 1 with second-digit (liquid) level 8.
Under IEC 60529, IP23 specifies protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against spraying water. Water sprayed at an angle up to 60° on either side of the vertical shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 3.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP18
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP23
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP18
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP23
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Dust-tight
IP18
No
IP23
No
Water-jet resistant
IP18
Yes
IP23
No
Submersible
IP18
Yes
IP23
No
Outdoor suitable
IP18
Yes
IP23
No
The exact difference (IP18 vs IP23)
Solid protection
IP18
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP23
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP18 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1), while IP23 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP23 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP18
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP23
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP18 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP23 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)). IP18 provides 5 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP18 offers higher overall protection than IP23. Choose IP18 for harsher environments; IP23 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.