IP38 vs IP43
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP38 and IP43 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 4) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 3). IP38 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP43 provides > 1 mm — small wires and spraying water (up to 60°).
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.
IP43 protects against 1 mm solid objects and spraying water up to 60° from vertical. A practical rating for sheltered equipment subject to light angled spray, such as covered outdoor fixtures.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP38
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP43
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP38
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP43
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Dust-tight
IP38
No
IP43
No
Water-jet resistant
IP38
Yes
IP43
No
Submersible
IP38
Yes
IP43
No
Outdoor suitable
IP38
Yes
IP43
No
The exact difference (IP38 vs IP43)
Solid protection
IP38
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP43
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP38 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IP43 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4). IP43 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP38
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP43
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP38 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP43 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)). IP38 provides 5 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP38 offers higher overall protection than IP43. Choose IP38 for harsher environments; IP43 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.