IP55 vs IP45
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP55 and IP45 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 5 vs 4). IP55 is rated for dust-protected and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle), while IP45 provides > 1 mm — small wires and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
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.
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.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP55
5 — Dust-Protected
IP45
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP55
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP45
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP55
Limited
IP45
No
Water-jet resistant
IP55
Yes
IP45
Yes
Submersible
IP55
No
IP45
No
Outdoor suitable
IP55
Yes
IP45
Yes
The exact difference (IP55 vs IP45)
Solid protection
IP55
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP45
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP55 provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5), while IP45 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4). IP55 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP55
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP45
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Both IP55 and IP45 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.