IP24 vs IP40
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP24 and IP40 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 4) and liquid protection (level 4 vs 0). IP24 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and splashing water (all directions), while IP40 provides > 1 mm — small wires and no protection.
With IP24, an enclosure receives protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against splashing water. Water splashed 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 4.
IP40 protects against small tools and wires (1 mm objects) but offers no water protection. Useful for indoor equipment needing finer ingress protection against small debris and tools.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP24
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP40
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP24
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP40
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP24
No
IP40
No
Water-jet resistant
IP24
No
IP40
No
Submersible
IP24
No
IP40
No
Outdoor suitable
IP24
Yes
IP40
No
The exact difference (IP24 vs IP40)
Solid protection
IP24
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP40
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP24 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP40 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4). IP40 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP24
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP40
Level 0 — No Protection
IP24 provides "Splashing Water (all directions)" (level 4), while IP40 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP24 is 4 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP24 offers higher overall protection than IP40. Choose IP24 for harsher environments; IP40 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.