IP18 vs IP47
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP18 and IP47 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 4) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 7). IP18 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP47 provides > 1 mm — small wires and temporary immersion (up to 1 m).
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.
IP47 provides protection against solid objects larger than 1.0 mm and protection against the effects of temporary immersion in water. Ingress of water in quantities causing harmful effects shall not be possible.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 4 with second-digit (liquid) level 7.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP18
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP47
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP18
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP47
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP18
No
IP47
No
Water-jet resistant
IP18
Yes
IP47
Yes
Submersible
IP18
Yes
IP47
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP18
Yes
IP47
Yes
The exact difference (IP18 vs IP47)
Solid protection
IP18
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP47
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP18 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1), while IP47 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4). IP47 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP18
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP47
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP18 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP47 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)). IP18 provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP47 offers higher overall protection than IP18. Choose IP47 for harsher environments; IP18 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.