IP58 vs IP17
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP58 and IP17 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 5 vs 1) and liquid protection (level 8 vs 7). IP58 is rated for dust-protected and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP17 provides > 50 mm — back of hand and temporary immersion (up to 1 m).
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.
Built to withstand protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against the effects of temporary immersion in water. Ingress of water in quantities causing harmful effects shall not be possible.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP17, it pairs solid level 1 with liquid level 7.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP58
5 — Dust-Protected
IP17
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP58
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP17
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
Dust-tight
IP58
Limited
IP17
No
Water-jet resistant
IP58
Yes
IP17
Yes
Submersible
IP58
Yes
IP17
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP58
Yes
IP17
Yes
The exact difference (IP58 vs IP17)
Solid protection
IP58
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP17
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP58 provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5), while IP17 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1). IP58 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP58
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP17
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP58 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)), while IP17 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)). IP58 provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP58 offers higher overall protection than IP17. Choose IP58 for harsher environments; IP17 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.