In our tech-driven world, devices and equipment face various environmental challenges. From accidental drops in water to exposure to dust, ensuring that these devices can withstand such conditions is crucial. This is where ingress protection (IP) ratings come into play. Among the most common IP ratings you might encounter are IP67 and IP68. But what do these numbers really mean, and how do they differ? Let’s dive into these ratings and uncover what sets them apart.
What is Ingress Protection (IP)?
Ingress Protection (IP) ratings are standardized codes that denote how well an electrical enclosure can protect its internal components from external elements like dust and water. The IP rating system is defined by the international standard IEC 60529. The rating consists of two digits:
The first digit indicates protection against solids (like dust).
The second digit indicates protection against liquids (like water).
For example, IP67 and IP68 are two such ratings that describe different levels of protection.
Breaking Down IP67 and IP68
- IP67: Dust Tight and Protected Against Temporary Immersion
Dust Tight (6): The ‘6’ signifies complete protection against dust ingress. No dust can enter the enclosure, making it entirely dust-tight. This ensures that sensitive electronics inside the device are shielded from dust particles that might otherwise cause damage or malfunction.
Protected Against Temporary Immersion (7): The ‘7’ indicates that the device can withstand being submerged in water up to 1 meter deep for up to 30 minutes. This rating is suitable for devices that may be exposed to temporary water immersion but are not designed for prolonged or deeper water exposure.
Example: A smartphone with an IP67 rating can survive being dropped in a shallow pool or exposed to heavy rain. However, it’s not designed to handle extended underwater use.
- IP68: Dust Tight and Protected Against Continuous Immersion
Dust Tight (6): Just like IP67, the ‘6’ in IP68 signifies complete protection against dust ingress.
Protected Against Continuous Immersion (8): The ‘8’ signifies that the device can withstand continuous immersion in water beyond 1 meter, typically up to 3 meters or more, depending on the manufacturer’s specifications. This rating indicates a higher level of protection against water ingress and is ideal for devices used in more extreme conditions.
Example: A smartwatch with an IP68 rating can be worn while swimming or even snorkeling without any risk of water damage. It’s built to endure prolonged underwater exposure and harsh environmental conditions.
Practical Tips for Choosing Between IP67 and IP68
- Assess Your Environment: Consider the environment where the device will be used. If you’re looking for a device for everyday use, where it might occasionally get wet, IP67 should suffice. However, if you require a device for underwater activities or harsh environments, IP68 is the better choice.
- Check Manufacturer Specifications: Always refer to the manufacturer’s specifications to understand the exact conditions under which the device’s IP rating applies. For instance, IP68 ratings can vary based on the depth and duration of immersion.
- Consider Device Longevity: Even with high IP ratings, prolonged exposure to extreme conditions can affect the device’s longevity. Regular maintenance and proper care are essential to ensure the device remains protected over time.
Understanding the difference between IP67 and IP68 ratings can help you make informed decisions about your devices’ durability and suitability for different environments. IP67 offers robust protection against dust and temporary water immersion, while IP68 provides enhanced protection for continuous underwater exposure. By evaluating your needs and checking device specifications, you can select the right level of protection to ensure your devices perform reliably in various conditions
