IP43 vs IP48
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP43 and IP48 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 3 vs 8). IP43 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP48 provides > 1 mm — small wires and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
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.
Engineered to deliver protection against solid objects larger than 1.0 mm and protection against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP48, it pairs solid level 4 with liquid level 8.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP43
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP48
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP43
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP48
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP43
No
IP48
No
Water-jet resistant
IP43
No
IP48
Yes
Submersible
IP43
No
IP48
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP43
No
IP48
Yes
The exact difference (IP43 vs IP48)
Solid protection
IP43
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP48
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Both IP43 and IP48 share the same solid protection: > 1 mm — Small Wires.
Liquid protection
IP43
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP48
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP43 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)), while IP48 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP48 provides 5 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP48 offers higher overall protection than IP43. Choose IP48 for harsher environments; IP43 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.