IP30 vs IP17
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP30 and IP17 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 1) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 7). IP30 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and no protection, while IP17 provides > 50 mm — back of hand and temporary immersion (up to 1 m).
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.
Built to withstand protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against the effects of temporary immersion in water. Ingress of water in quantities causing harmful effects shall not be possible.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP17, it pairs solid level 1 with liquid level 7.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP30
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP17
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP30
0 — No Protection
IP17
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP30
No
IP17
No
Water-jet resistant
IP30
No
IP17
Yes
Submersible
IP30
No
IP17
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP30
No
IP17
Yes
The exact difference (IP30 vs IP17)
Solid protection
IP30
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP17
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP30 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IP17 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1). IP30 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP30
Level 0 — No Protection
IP17
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP30 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP17 provides "Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)" (level 7). IP17 is 7 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP17 offers higher overall protection than IP30. Choose IP17 for harsher environments; IP30 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.