IP45 vs IP58
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP45 and IP58 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 5) and liquid protection (level 5 vs 8). IP45 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle), while IP58 provides dust-protected 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.
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)
IP45
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP58
5 — Dust-Protected
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP45
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP58
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP45
No
IP58
Limited
Water-jet resistant
IP45
Yes
IP58
Yes
Submersible
IP45
No
IP58
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP45
Yes
IP58
Yes
The exact difference (IP45 vs IP58)
Solid protection
IP45
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP58
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP45 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IP58 provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5). IP58 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP45
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP58
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP45 handles 30 kPa (Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)), while IP58 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP58 provides 3 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP58 offers higher overall protection than IP45. Choose IP58 for harsher environments; IP45 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.