IP30 vs IP69K
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP30 and IP69K are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 6) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 9K). IP30 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and no protection, while IP69K provides dust-tight and high-pressure, high-temp water jets.
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.
IP69K is dust-tight and resists high-pressure (8–10 MPa), high-temperature (80 °C) water jets. The highest IP rating, required for food, beverage, and pharmaceutical washdown environments.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP30
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP69K
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP30
0 — No Protection
IP69K
9 — High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets
Dust-tight
IP30
No
IP69K
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP30
No
IP69K
Yes
Submersible
IP30
No
IP69K
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP30
No
IP69K
Yes
The exact difference (IP30 vs IP69K)
Solid protection
IP30
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP69K
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP30 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IP69K provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP69K is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP30
Level 0 — No Protection
IP69K
Level 9 — High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets
IP30 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP69K provides "High-Pressure, High-Temp Water Jets" (level 9). IP69K is 9 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP69K offers higher overall protection than IP30. Choose IP69K for harsher environments; IP30 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.