IP31 vs IP6X
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP31 and IP6X are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 6) and liquid protection (level 1 vs 0). IP31 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and vertically dripping water, while IP6X provides dust-tight and no protection.
The IP31 rating offers protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 mm and protection against vertically falling drops of water. Dripping water shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 3 with second-digit (liquid) level 1.
IP6X is fully dust-tight—no ingress of dust whatsoever—with water protection not specified. The highest solid-protection rating, used where complete dust exclusion is critical.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP31
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP6X
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP31
1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IP6X
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP31
No
IP6X
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP31
No
IP6X
No
Submersible
IP31
No
IP6X
No
Outdoor suitable
IP31
No
IP6X
No
The exact difference (IP31 vs IP6X)
Solid protection
IP31
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP6X
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP31 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IP6X provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP6X is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP31
Level 1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IP6X
Level 0 — No Protection
IP31 provides "Vertically Dripping Water" (level 1), while IP6X provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP31 is 1 level higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP6X offers higher overall protection than IP31. Choose IP6X for harsher environments; IP31 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.