IP45 vs IP28
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP45 and IP28 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 2) and liquid protection (level 5 vs 8). IP45 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle), while IP28 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
IP45 protects against 1 mm solid objects and low-pressure water jets (6.3 mm nozzle, 30 kPa). A mid-range indoor/outdoor-covered rating for equipment that may be rinsed or hosed gently.
Specified under IEC 60529, IP28 denotes protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 8.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP45
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP28
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP45
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP28
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP45
No
IP28
No
Water-jet resistant
IP45
Yes
IP28
Yes
Submersible
IP45
No
IP28
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP45
Yes
IP28
Yes
The exact difference (IP45 vs IP28)
Solid protection
IP45
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP28
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP45 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IP28 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP45 is 2 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP45
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP28
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP45 handles 30 kPa (Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)), while IP28 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP28 provides 3 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP28 offers higher overall protection than IP45. Choose IP28 for harsher environments; IP45 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.