IP67 vs IP18
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP67 and IP18 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 6 vs 1) and liquid protection (level 7 vs 8). IP67 is rated for dust-tight and temporary immersion (up to 1 m), while IP18 provides > 50 mm — back of hand and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
IP67 is dust-tight and withstands temporary immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. The go-to rating for outdoor and rugged devices that may be briefly submerged.
The IP18 classification guarantees protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 1 with second-digit (liquid) level 8.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP67
6 — Dust-Tight
IP18
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP67
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP18
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP67
Yes
IP18
No
Water-jet resistant
IP67
Yes
IP18
Yes
Submersible
IP67
Yes
IP18
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP67
Yes
IP18
Yes
The exact difference (IP67 vs IP18)
Solid protection
IP67
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP18
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP67 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6), while IP18 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1). IP67 is 5 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP67
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP18
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP67 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)), while IP18 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP18 provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP67 offers higher overall protection than IP18. Choose IP67 for harsher environments; IP18 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.