IP18 vs IP28
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP18 and IP28 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 2). IP18 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP28 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
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.
Specified under IEC 60529, IP28 denotes protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 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 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 8.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP18
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP28
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP18
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP28
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP18
No
IP28
No
Water-jet resistant
IP18
Yes
IP28
Yes
Submersible
IP18
Yes
IP28
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP18
Yes
IP28
Yes
The exact difference (IP18 vs IP28)
Solid protection
IP18
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP28
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP18 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1), while IP28 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP28 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP18
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP28
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Both IP18 and IP28 share the same liquid protection: Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP28 offers higher overall protection than IP18. Choose IP28 for harsher environments; IP18 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.