IP30 vs IP15
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP30 and IP15 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 1) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 5). IP30 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and no protection, while IP15 provides > 50 mm — back of hand and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
IP30 protects against tools and 2.5 mm solid objects but offers no water protection. A basic indoor rating for equipment in dry, low-dust environments where only tool-access protection is required.
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)
IP30
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP15
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP30
0 — No Protection
IP15
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP30
No
IP15
No
Water-jet resistant
IP30
No
IP15
Yes
Submersible
IP30
No
IP15
No
Outdoor suitable
IP30
No
IP15
Yes
The exact difference (IP30 vs IP15)
Solid protection
IP30
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP15
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP30 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IP15 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1). IP30 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP30
Level 0 — No Protection
IP15
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP30 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP15 provides "Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)" (level 5). IP15 is 5 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP15 offers higher overall protection than IP30. Choose IP15 for harsher environments; IP30 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.