IP36 vs IP38
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP36 and IP38 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 6 vs 8). IP36 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle), while IP38 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
The IP36 classification guarantees protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 mm and protection against powerful water jets. Water projected in powerful jets by a 12.5 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 3 with second-digit (liquid) level 6.
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)
IP36
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP38
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP36
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP38
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP36
No
IP38
No
Water-jet resistant
IP36
Yes
IP38
Yes
Submersible
IP36
No
IP38
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP36
Yes
IP38
Yes
The exact difference (IP36 vs IP38)
Solid protection
IP36
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP38
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Both IP36 and IP38 share the same solid protection: > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire.
Liquid protection
IP36
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP38
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP36 handles 100 kPa (Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)), while IP38 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP38 provides 2 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP38 offers higher overall protection than IP36. Choose IP38 for harsher environments; IP36 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.