IP30 vs IP31
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP30 and IP31 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 0 vs 1). IP30 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and no protection, while IP31 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and vertically dripping water.
IP30 protects against tools and 2.5 mm solid objects but offers no water protection. A basic indoor rating for equipment in dry, low-dust environments where only tool-access protection is required.
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)
IP30
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP31
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP30
0 — No Protection
IP31
1 — Vertically Dripping Water
Dust-tight
IP30
No
IP31
No
Water-jet resistant
IP30
No
IP31
No
Submersible
IP30
No
IP31
No
Outdoor suitable
IP30
No
IP31
No
The exact difference (IP30 vs IP31)
Solid protection
IP30
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP31
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Both IP30 and IP31 share the same solid protection: > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire.
Liquid protection
IP30
Level 0 — No Protection
IP31
Level 1 — Vertically Dripping Water
IP30 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 IP30. Choose IP31 for harsher environments; IP30 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.