IP45 vs IP08
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP45 and IP08 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 5 vs 8). IP45 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle), while IP08 provides no protection and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
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.
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)
IP45
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP08
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP45
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP08
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP45
No
IP08
No
Water-jet resistant
IP45
Yes
IP08
Yes
Submersible
IP45
No
IP08
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP45
Yes
IP08
Yes
The exact difference (IP45 vs IP08)
Solid protection
IP45
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP08
Level 0 — No Protection
IP45 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IP08 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP45 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP45
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP08
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP45 handles 30 kPa (Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)), while IP08 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP08 provides 3 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP45 offers higher overall protection than IP08. Choose IP45 for harsher environments; IP08 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.