IP55 vs IP58
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP55 and IP58 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 5 vs 8). IP55 is rated for dust-protected and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle), while IP58 provides dust-protected and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
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.
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)
IP55
5 — Dust-Protected
IP58
5 — Dust-Protected
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP55
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP58
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP55
Limited
IP58
Limited
Water-jet resistant
IP55
Yes
IP58
Yes
Submersible
IP55
No
IP58
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP55
Yes
IP58
Yes
The exact difference (IP55 vs IP58)
Solid protection
IP55
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP58
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
Both IP55 and IP58 share the same solid protection: Dust-Protected.
Liquid protection
IP55
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP58
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP55 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.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP58 offers higher overall protection than IP55. Choose IP58 for harsher environments; IP55 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.