IP69K vs IP30
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP69K and IP30 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 6 vs 3) and liquid protection (level 9K vs 0). IP69K is rated for dust-tight and high-pressure, high-temp water jets, while IP30 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and no protection.
IP69K is dust-tight and resists high-pressure (8–10 MPa), high-temperature (80 °C) water jets. The highest IP rating, required for food, beverage, and pharmaceutical washdown environments.
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)
IP69K
6 — Dust-Tight
IP30
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP69K
9 — High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets
IP30
0 — No Protection
Dust-tight
IP69K
Yes
IP30
No
Water-jet resistant
IP69K
Yes
IP30
No
Submersible
IP69K
Yes
IP30
No
Outdoor suitable
IP69K
Yes
IP30
No
The exact difference (IP69K vs IP30)
Solid protection
IP69K
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP30
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP69K provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6), while IP30 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP69K is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP69K
Level 9 — High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets
IP30
Level 0 — No Protection
IP69K provides "High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets" (level 9), while IP30 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP69K is 9 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP69K offers higher overall protection than IP30. Choose IP69K for harsher environments; IP30 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.