IP15 vs IP16
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP15 and IP16 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 5 vs 6). IP15 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle), while IP16 provides > 50 mm — back of hand and powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle).
With IP15, an enclosure receives protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against water jets. Water projected by a 6.3 mm nozzle against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 1 with second-digit (liquid) level 5.
IP16 is an ingress protection code that ensures protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against powerful water jets. Water projected in powerful jets by a 12.5 mm nozzle against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 1 with second-digit (liquid) level 6.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP15
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP16
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP15
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP16
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP15
No
IP16
No
Water-jet resistant
IP15
Yes
IP16
Yes
Submersible
IP15
No
IP16
No
Outdoor suitable
IP15
Yes
IP16
Yes
The exact difference (IP15 vs IP16)
Solid protection
IP15
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP16
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Both IP15 and IP16 share the same solid protection: > 50 mm — Back of Hand.
Liquid protection
IP15
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP16
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP15 handles 30 kPa (Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)), while IP16 handles 100 kPa (Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)). IP16 provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP16 offers higher overall protection than IP15. Choose IP16 for harsher environments; IP15 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.