IP45 vs IP48
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP45 and IP48 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 5 vs 8). IP45 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle), while IP48 provides > 1 mm — small wires 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.
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)
IP45
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP48
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP45
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP48
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP45
No
IP48
No
Water-jet resistant
IP45
Yes
IP48
Yes
Submersible
IP45
No
IP48
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP45
Yes
IP48
Yes
The exact difference (IP45 vs IP48)
Solid protection
IP45
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP48
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Both IP45 and IP48 share the same solid protection: > 1 mm — Small Wires.
Liquid protection
IP45
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP48
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP45 handles 30 kPa (Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)), while IP48 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP48 provides 3 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP48 offers higher overall protection than IP45. Choose IP48 for harsher environments; IP45 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.