IP28 vs IP31
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP28 and IP31 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 2 vs 3) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 1). IP28 is rated for > 12.5 mm — finger and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP31 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and vertically dripping water.
Specified under IEC 60529, IP28 denotes protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 8.
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)
IP28
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP31
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP28
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP31
1 — Vertically Dripping Water
Dust-tight
IP28
No
IP31
No
Water-jet resistant
IP28
Yes
IP31
No
Submersible
IP28
Yes
IP31
No
Outdoor suitable
IP28
Yes
IP31
No
The exact difference (IP28 vs IP31)
Solid protection
IP28
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP31
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP28 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2), while IP31 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3). IP31 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP28
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP31
Level 1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IP28 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP31 handles 0.1 mm/min drip rate (Vertically Dripping Water). IP28 provides 7 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP28 offers higher overall protection than IP31. Choose IP28 for harsher environments; IP31 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.