IP00 vs IP31
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP00 and IP31 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 3) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 1). IP00 is rated for no protection and no protection, while IP31 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and vertically dripping water.
IP00 offers no protection against solid objects or moisture. It is suitable only for indoor, climate-controlled environments where the equipment is fully enclosed within another protective housing.
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.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP00
0 — No Protection
IP31
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP00
0 — No Protection
IP31
1 — Vertically Dripping Water
Dust-tight
IP00
No
IP31
No
Water-jet resistant
IP00
No
IP31
No
Submersible
IP00
No
IP31
No
Outdoor suitable
IP00
No
IP31
No
The exact difference (IP00 vs IP31)
Solid protection
IP00
Level 0 — No Protection
IP31
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP00 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP31 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP31 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP00
Level 0 — No Protection
IP31
Level 1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IP00 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP31 provides "Vertically Dripping Water" (level 1). IP31 is 1 level higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP31 offers higher overall protection than IP00. Choose IP31 for harsher environments; IP00 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.