IP09K vs IP15
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP09K and IP15 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 1) and liquid protection (level 9K vs 5). IP09K is rated for no protection and high-pressure, high-temp water jets, while IP15 provides > 50 mm — back of hand and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
The IP09K rating offers no protection against solid objects 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 0 with second-digit (liquid) level 9K.
With IP15, an enclosure receives protection against solid objects larger than 50 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.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 1 with second-digit (liquid) level 5.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP09K
0 — No Protection
IP15
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP09K
9 — High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets
IP15
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP09K
No
IP15
No
Water-jet resistant
IP09K
Yes
IP15
Yes
Submersible
IP09K
Yes
IP15
No
Outdoor suitable
IP09K
Yes
IP15
Yes
The exact difference (IP09K vs IP15)
Solid protection
IP09K
Level 0 — No Protection
IP15
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP09K provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP15 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1). IP15 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP09K
Level 9 — High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets
IP15
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP09K handles 8–10 MPa (High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets), while IP15 handles 30 kPa (Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)). IP09K provides 4 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP09K offers higher overall protection than IP15. Choose IP09K for harsher environments; IP15 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.