IP27 vs IP31
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP27 and IP31 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 3) and liquid protection (level 7 vs 1). IP27 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and temporary immersion (up to 1 m), while IP31 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and vertically dripping water.
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.
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)
IP27
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP31
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP27
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP31
1 — Vertically Dripping Water
Dust-tight
IP27
No
IP31
No
Water-jet resistant
IP27
Yes
IP31
No
Submersible
IP27
Yes
IP31
No
Outdoor suitable
IP27
Yes
IP31
No
The exact difference (IP27 vs IP31)
Solid protection
IP27
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP31
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP27 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP31 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP31 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP27
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP31
Level 1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IP27 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)), while IP31 handles 0.1 mm/min drip rate (Vertically Dripping Water). IP27 provides 6 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP27 offers higher overall protection than IP31. Choose IP27 for harsher environments; IP31 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.