IP30 vs IP48
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP30 and IP48 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 4) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 8). IP30 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and no protection, while IP48 provides > 1 mm — small wires and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
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.
Engineered to deliver protection against solid objects larger than 1.0 mm and protection against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP48, it pairs solid level 4 with liquid level 8.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP30
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP48
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP30
0 — No Protection
IP48
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP30
No
IP48
No
Water-jet resistant
IP30
No
IP48
Yes
Submersible
IP30
No
IP48
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP30
No
IP48
Yes
The exact difference (IP30 vs IP48)
Solid protection
IP30
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP48
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP30 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IP48 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4). IP48 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP30
Level 0 — No Protection
IP48
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP30 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP48 provides "Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)" (level 8). IP48 is 8 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP48 offers higher overall protection than IP30. Choose IP48 for harsher environments; IP30 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.