IP35 vs IP38
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP35 and IP38 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 5 vs 8). IP35 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle), while IP38 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
Built to withstand protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 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.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP35, it pairs solid level 3 with liquid level 5.
IP38 provides protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 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 3 with second-digit (liquid) level 8.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP35
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP38
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP35
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP38
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP35
No
IP38
No
Water-jet resistant
IP35
Yes
IP38
Yes
Submersible
IP35
No
IP38
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP35
Yes
IP38
Yes
The exact difference (IP35 vs IP38)
Solid protection
IP35
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP38
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Both IP35 and IP38 share the same solid protection: > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire.
Liquid protection
IP35
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP38
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP35 handles 30 kPa (Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)), while IP38 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP38 provides 3 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP38 offers higher overall protection than IP35. Choose IP38 for harsher environments; IP35 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.