IP03 vs IP29K
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP03 and IP29K are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 2) and liquid protection (level 3 vs 9K). IP03 is rated for no protection and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP29K provides > 12.5 mm — finger and high-pressure, high-temp water jets.
Designed for environments requiring no protection against solid objects and protection against spraying water. Water sprayed at an angle up to 60° on either side of the vertical shall have no harmful effects., IP03 is an IEC 60529 code combining solid level 0 with liquid level 3.
With IP29K, an enclosure receives protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and resistance to high-pressure (8–10 MPa), high-temperature (80 °C) water jets. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 9K.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP03
0 — No Protection
IP29K
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP03
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP29K
9 — High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets
Dust-tight
IP03
No
IP29K
No
Water-jet resistant
IP03
No
IP29K
Yes
Submersible
IP03
No
IP29K
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP03
No
IP29K
Yes
The exact difference (IP03 vs IP29K)
Solid protection
IP03
Level 0 — No Protection
IP29K
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP03 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP29K provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP29K is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP03
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP29K
Level 9 — High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets
IP03 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)), while IP29K handles 8–10 MPa (High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets). IP29K provides 6 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP29K offers higher overall protection than IP03. Choose IP29K for harsher environments; IP03 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.