IP15 vs IP28
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP15 and IP28 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 2) and liquid protection (level 5 vs 8). IP15 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle), while IP28 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
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.
Specified under IEC 60529, IP28 denotes protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 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 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 8.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP15
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP28
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP15
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP28
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP15
No
IP28
No
Water-jet resistant
IP15
Yes
IP28
Yes
Submersible
IP15
No
IP28
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP15
Yes
IP28
Yes
The exact difference (IP15 vs IP28)
Solid protection
IP15
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP28
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP15 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1), while IP28 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP28 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP15
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP28
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP15 handles 30 kPa (Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)), while IP28 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP28 provides 3 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP28 offers higher overall protection than IP15. Choose IP28 for harsher environments; IP15 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.