IP03 vs IP58
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP03 and IP58 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 5) and liquid protection (level 3 vs 8). IP03 is rated for no protection and spraying water (up to 60°), while IP58 provides dust-protected and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
Designed for environments requiring no protection against solid objects and protection against spraying water. Water sprayed at an angle up to 60° on either side of the vertical shall have no harmful effects., IP03 is an IEC 60529 code combining solid level 0 with liquid level 3.
IP58 is dust-protected and rated for continuous immersion in water under manufacturer-specified conditions. A niche rating for equipment that must operate submerged while allowing limited dust ingress.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP03
0 — No Protection
IP58
5 — Dust-Protected
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP03
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP58
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP03
No
IP58
Limited
Water-jet resistant
IP03
No
IP58
Yes
Submersible
IP03
No
IP58
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP03
No
IP58
Yes
The exact difference (IP03 vs IP58)
Solid protection
IP03
Level 0 — No Protection
IP58
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP03 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP58 provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5). IP58 is 5 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP03
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP58
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP03 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)), while IP58 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP58 provides 5 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP58 offers higher overall protection than IP03. Choose IP58 for harsher environments; IP03 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.