IP48 vs IP58
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP48 and IP58 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 5). IP48 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP58 provides dust-protected and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
Engineered to deliver protection against solid objects larger than 1.0 mm and protection against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP48, it pairs solid level 4 with liquid level 8.
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)
IP48
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP58
5 — Dust-Protected
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP48
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP58
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP48
No
IP58
Limited
Water-jet resistant
IP48
Yes
IP58
Yes
Submersible
IP48
Yes
IP58
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP48
Yes
IP58
Yes
The exact difference (IP48 vs IP58)
Solid protection
IP48
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP58
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP48 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IP58 provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5). IP58 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP48
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP58
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Both IP48 and IP58 share the same liquid protection: Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified).
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP58 offers higher overall protection than IP48. Choose IP58 for harsher environments; IP48 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.