IP40 vs IP08
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP40 and IP08 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 8). IP40 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and no protection, while IP08 provides no protection and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
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.
Built to withstand no protection against solid objects and protection against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP08, it pairs solid level 0 with liquid level 8.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP40
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP08
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP40
0 — No Protection
IP08
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP40
No
IP08
No
Water-jet resistant
IP40
No
IP08
Yes
Submersible
IP40
No
IP08
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP40
No
IP08
Yes
The exact difference (IP40 vs IP08)
Solid protection
IP40
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP08
Level 0 — No Protection
IP40 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IP08 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP40 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP40
Level 0 — No Protection
IP08
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP40 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP08 provides "Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)" (level 8). IP08 is 8 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP08 offers higher overall protection than IP40. Choose IP08 for harsher environments; IP40 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.