IP45 vs IP35
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP45 and IP35 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 3). IP45 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle), while IP35 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
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 protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 mm and protection against water jets. Water projected by a 6.3 mm nozzle against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP35, it pairs solid level 3 with liquid level 5.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP45
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP35
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP45
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP35
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP45
No
IP35
No
Water-jet resistant
IP45
Yes
IP35
Yes
Submersible
IP45
No
IP35
No
Outdoor suitable
IP45
Yes
IP35
Yes
The exact difference (IP45 vs IP35)
Solid protection
IP45
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP35
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP45 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IP35 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP45 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP45
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP35
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Both IP45 and IP35 share the same liquid protection: Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP45 offers higher overall protection than IP35. Choose IP45 for harsher environments; IP35 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.