IP40 vs IP45
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP40 and IP45 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 0 vs 5). IP40 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and no protection, while IP45 provides > 1 mm — small wires and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
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.
IP45 protects against 1 mm solid objects and low-pressure water jets (6.3 mm nozzle, 30 kPa). A mid-range indoor/outdoor-covered rating for equipment that may be rinsed or hosed gently.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP40
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP45
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP40
0 — No Protection
IP45
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP40
No
IP45
No
Water-jet resistant
IP40
No
IP45
Yes
Submersible
IP40
No
IP45
No
Outdoor suitable
IP40
No
IP45
Yes
The exact difference (IP40 vs IP45)
Solid protection
IP40
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP45
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Both IP40 and IP45 share the same solid protection: > 1 mm — Small Wires.
Liquid protection
IP40
Level 0 — No Protection
IP45
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP40 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP45 provides "Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)" (level 5). IP45 is 5 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP45 offers higher overall protection than IP40. Choose IP45 for harsher environments; IP40 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.