IP37 vs IP38
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP37 and IP38 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 7 vs 8). IP37 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and temporary immersion (up to 1 m), while IP38 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
Specified under IEC 60529, IP37 denotes protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 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 3 with second-digit (liquid) level 7.
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)
IP37
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP38
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP37
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP38
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP37
No
IP38
No
Water-jet resistant
IP37
Yes
IP38
Yes
Submersible
IP37
Yes
IP38
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP37
Yes
IP38
Yes
The exact difference (IP37 vs IP38)
Solid protection
IP37
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP38
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Both IP37 and IP38 share the same solid protection: > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire.
Liquid protection
IP37
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP38
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP37 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)), while IP38 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP38 provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP38 offers higher overall protection than IP37. Choose IP38 for harsher environments; IP37 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.