IP18 vs IP25
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP18 and IP25 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 2) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 5). IP18 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP25 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
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.
IP25 is an ingress protection code that ensures protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 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 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 5.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP18
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP25
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP18
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP25
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP18
No
IP25
No
Water-jet resistant
IP18
Yes
IP25
Yes
Submersible
IP18
Yes
IP25
No
Outdoor suitable
IP18
Yes
IP25
Yes
The exact difference (IP18 vs IP25)
Solid protection
IP18
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP25
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP18 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1), while IP25 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP25 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP18
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP25
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP18 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP25 handles 30 kPa (Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)). IP18 provides 3 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP18 offers higher overall protection than IP25. Choose IP18 for harsher environments; IP25 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.