IP15 vs IP27
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP15 and IP27 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 1 vs 2) and liquid protection (level 5 vs 7). IP15 is rated for > 50 mm — back of hand and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle), while IP27 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and temporary immersion (up to 1 m).
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.
The IP27 classification guarantees protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against the effects of temporary immersion in water. Ingress of water in quantities causing harmful effects shall not be possible.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 7.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP15
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP27
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP15
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP27
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP15
No
IP27
No
Water-jet resistant
IP15
Yes
IP27
Yes
Submersible
IP15
No
IP27
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP15
Yes
IP27
Yes
The exact difference (IP15 vs IP27)
Solid protection
IP15
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP27
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP15 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1), while IP27 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP27 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP15
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP27
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP15 handles 30 kPa (Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)), while IP27 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)). IP27 provides 2 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP27 offers higher overall protection than IP15. Choose IP27 for harsher environments; IP15 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.