IP55 vs IP30
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP55 and IP30 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 5 vs 3) and liquid protection (level 5 vs 0). IP55 is rated for dust-protected and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle), while IP30 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and no protection.
IP55 is dust-protected and resists low-pressure water jets (6.3 mm nozzle, 30 kPa). A popular industrial rating for equipment exposed to dust and directed water spray but not immersion.
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.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP55
5 — Dust-Protected
IP30
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP55
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP30
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP55
Limited
IP30
No
Water-jet resistant
IP55
Yes
IP30
No
Submersible
IP55
No
IP30
No
Outdoor suitable
IP55
Yes
IP30
No
The exact difference (IP55 vs IP30)
Solid protection
IP55
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP30
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP55 provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5), while IP30 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP55 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP55
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP30
Level 0 — No Protection
IP55 provides "Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)" (level 5), while IP30 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP55 is 5 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP55 offers higher overall protection than IP30. Choose IP55 for harsher environments; IP30 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.