IP30 vs IP55
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP30 and IP55 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 5) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 5). IP30 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and no protection, while IP55 provides dust-protected and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
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.
IP55 is dust-protected and resists low-pressure water jets (6.3 mm nozzle, 30 kPa). A popular industrial rating for equipment exposed to dust and directed water spray but not immersion.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP30
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP55
5 — Dust-Protected
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP30
0 — No Protection
IP55
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP30
No
IP55
Limited
Water-jet resistant
IP30
No
IP55
Yes
Submersible
IP30
No
IP55
No
Outdoor suitable
IP30
No
IP55
Yes
The exact difference (IP30 vs IP55)
Solid protection
IP30
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP55
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP30 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IP55 provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5). IP55 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP30
Level 0 — No Protection
IP55
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP30 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP55 provides "Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)" (level 5). IP55 is 5 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP55 offers higher overall protection than IP30. Choose IP55 for harsher environments; IP30 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.