IP45 vs IP55
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP45 and IP55 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 5). IP45 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle), while IP55 provides dust-protected and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
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.
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)
IP45
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP55
5 — Dust-Protected
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP45
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP55
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP45
No
IP55
Limited
Water-jet resistant
IP45
Yes
IP55
Yes
Submersible
IP45
No
IP55
No
Outdoor suitable
IP45
Yes
IP55
Yes
The exact difference (IP45 vs IP55)
Solid protection
IP45
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP55
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP45 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IP55 provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5). IP55 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP45
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP55
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Both IP45 and IP55 share the same liquid protection: Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP55 offers higher overall protection than IP45. Choose IP55 for harsher environments; IP45 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.