IP58 vs IP28
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP58 and IP28 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 5 vs 2). IP58 is rated for dust-protected and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified), while IP28 provides > 12.5 mm — finger and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
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.
Specified under IEC 60529, IP28 denotes protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm and protection against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 2 with second-digit (liquid) level 8.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP58
5 — Dust-Protected
IP28
2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP58
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP28
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP58
Limited
IP28
No
Water-jet resistant
IP58
Yes
IP28
Yes
Submersible
IP58
Yes
IP28
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP58
Yes
IP28
Yes
The exact difference (IP58 vs IP28)
Solid protection
IP58
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP28
Level 2 — > 12.5 mm — Finger
IP58 provides "Dust-Protected" (level 5), while IP28 provides "> 12.5 mm — Finger" (level 2). IP58 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP58
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP28
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Both IP58 and IP28 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 IP28. Choose IP58 for harsher environments; IP28 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.