IP56 vs IP58
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP56 and IP58 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in liquid protection (level 6 vs 8). IP56 is rated for dust-protected and powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle), while IP58 provides dust-protected and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
IP56 is dust-protected and resists powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle, 100 kPa). Suited to outdoor equipment subjected to heavy rain or hose-directed water.
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)
IP56
5 — Dust-Protected
IP58
5 — Dust-Protected
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP56
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP58
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP56
Limited
IP58
Limited
Water-jet resistant
IP56
Yes
IP58
Yes
Submersible
IP56
No
IP58
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP56
Yes
IP58
Yes
The exact difference (IP56 vs IP58)
Solid protection
IP56
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
IP58
Level 5 — Dust-Protected
Both IP56 and IP58 share the same solid protection: Dust-Protected.
Liquid protection
IP56
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP58
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP56 handles 100 kPa (Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)), while IP58 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP58 provides 2 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP58 offers higher overall protection than IP56. Choose IP58 for harsher environments; IP56 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.