IP30 vs IP32
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP30 and IP32 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 0 vs 2). IP30 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and no protection, while IP32 provides > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and dripping water at 15° tilt.
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.
Under IEC 60529, IP32 specifies protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 mm and protection against vertically falling drops of water when the enclosure is tilted up to 15° from its normal position.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 3 with second-digit (liquid) level 2.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP30
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP32
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP30
0 — No Protection
IP32
2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
Dust-tight
IP30
No
IP32
No
Water-jet resistant
IP30
No
IP32
No
Submersible
IP30
No
IP32
No
Outdoor suitable
IP30
No
IP32
No
The exact difference (IP30 vs IP32)
Solid protection
IP30
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP32
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
Both IP30 and IP32 share the same solid protection: > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire.
Liquid protection
IP30
Level 0 — No Protection
IP32
Level 2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
IP30 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP32 provides "Dripping Water at 15° Tilt" (level 2). IP32 is 2 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP32 offers higher overall protection than IP30. Choose IP32 for harsher environments; IP30 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.