The IP68 waterproof rating represents the pinnacle of protection. The “IP” in IP68 stands for Ingress Protection, a standard defined by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). This rating specifically denotes a device’s ability to resist the ingress of dust and water. The numeral “6” in IP68 signifies the highest level of dust protection, rendering the device entirely dust-tight.
The second digit, “8,” represents the device’s exceptional ability to withstand continuous immersion in water beyond one meter, making it impervious even to the deepest of water submersions. SLAYSON® offers the largest range of IP68 electrical enclosures; read on to learn more about the rating and our products.
What is an IP68 rating? The gold standard in dust and water resistance
The IP68 rating signifies that a device is not only completely protected against dust but capable of withstanding prolonged periods of immersion in water without succumbing to damage. Whether your equipment needs to survive a sudden downpour or endure the harshest environmental conditions, the IP68 rating offers an unmatched level of assurance.
Ingress Protection (IP) ratings have become the universal language of durability in electronics. They provide consumers and industry professionals with a quick snapshot of an electronic enclosure’s protective qualities. The first digit in an IP rating signifies protection against solid objects, ranging from 0 (no protection) to 6 (complete dust-tight protection). The second digit represents the device’s resistance to water, ranging from 0 (no protection) to 9 (protection against powerful high-temperature water jets). Among these classifications, the IP68 rating shines as the zenith of water and dust resistance, setting the benchmark for reliability and longevity.
The highest level of protection against solid and liquid ingress
Breaking down the IP^* code, the ‘6’ denotes complete protection against dust and other solid particles. This means the enclosure is entirely dust-tight, ensuring no foreign particles can penetrate it.
The ‘8,’ however, is where the rating truly shines. It guarantees total protection against water ingress, even in the most challenging scenarios. Enclosures with an IP68 rating can withstand complete submersion in water beyond one meter for more than 30 minutes. This remarkable level of water resistance makes IP68-rated enclosures ideal for various applications, including underwater electronics and devices used in harsh environmental conditions.
IP67 vs. IP68: Understanding the difference
When comparing IP67 and IP68 enclosures, the primary distinction lies in their submersion capabilities. Both ratings offer impeccable protection against dust, making them equally effective in dust-prone environments. However, the difference is more obvious when it comes to water exposure.
IP67-rated enclosures can endure submersion in water up to one meter for up to 30 minutes. In contrast, IP68-rated enclosures can withstand submersion beyond one meter, with the exact depth determined by the manufacturer’s specifications. It’s vital to note that while IP68 guarantees superior water protection, the specific depth of submersion can vary between different enclosures. Hence, referring to the manufacturer’s documentation is imperative to ascertain the precise submersion depth a particular IP68-rated device can withstand.
Key considerations for IP68 ratings
Two crucial points should be kept in mind when dealing with IP68-rated devices:
- The IP68 rating does not dictate a specific submersion depth but ensures that the device is tested to resist submersion beyond one meter. Always refer to the manufacturer’s specifications to determine the exact submersion depth a device is designed for.
- It’s essential to recognise that IP68 testing employs fresh water to evaluate water resistance. If your application involves exposure to different types of water, such as saltwater or chlorinated pool water, additional performance properties might be necessary. Devices intended for such environments may require specialised coatings or materials to withstand the corrosive effects of these substances.
Understanding IP68 ratings and their nuances is vital for selecting the right enclosures for specific applications. The level of protection provided by IP68-rated enclosures ensures the longevity and reliability of electronics in diverse and challenging environments. Always consult the manufacturer’s specifications and consider the specific environmental factors your devices will face to make informed decisions regarding IP68-rated options.
IP68 enclosures that are engineered to protect
SLAYSON® is an industry leader, specialising in producing IP68-rated stainless steel, aluminium, and polyurethane submersible enclosures. Our enclosures are engineered to meet the stringent IP68 standards, dust-tight and capable of withstanding complete submersion below one meter for extended periods, making them ideal for diverse applications ranging from industrial setups to underwater electronics. View our full range here today.
