The IP (Ingress Protection) rating system IP67 and IP68 enclosure ratings bring unique protective features to the table. Understanding how the IP system operates is the first step in making an informed choice.

The universal standard for categorising the protective capabilities of electrical enclosures

Each IP rating is composed of a two-digit number, where each digit has a distinct significance. The first digit in the IP rating denotes the enclosure’s resistance to solid objects, encompassing everything from the finest dust particles to larger entities. The scale runs from 1 to 6, with 1 representing the most rudimentary protection and 6 signifying an entirely dust-tight enclosure. This digit provides valuable information about how effectively the enclosure guards against the intrusion of solid matter, a critical consideration in environments where dust or debris can compromise the functionality of electronic components.

The second digit of the IP rating characterises the enclosure’s resistance to water ingress. It’s important to note that this digit exclusively pertains to protection against water and doesn’t encompass other liquids such as oil or coolant. The rating ranges from 0 to 8, with 0 indicating no water protection and 8 showing a waterproof enclosure capable of enduring prolonged submersion. This digit informs users about the level of water resistance an enclosure offers, making it particularly vital for applications where exposure to moisture or liquid is a concern.

Combining these two digits, the IP system generates a concise yet comprehensive rating that succinctly communicates the enclosure’s protective qualities. For instance, when comparing IP65 and IP67 enclosures, an IP65 enclosure would provide less water ingress protection than an IP67-rated counterpart. This simplifies the process of selecting enclosures that align with the specific environmental challenges, ensuring that the level of protection matches the application’s requirements.

The differences between IP67 and IP68 enclosures

The primary difference between these options is the submersion depth and duration:

• IP67: Rated for submersion at a depth of 1 meter for up to 30 minutes.
• IP68: Rated for submersion at least 1 meter deep for up to 30 minutes, with additional depth and duration specified by the manufacturer.

While IP67 and IP68 enclosures can withstand submersion in water, the IP68 rating offers more flexibility by allowing manufacturers to specify extended submersion depths and durations beyond the baseline 1 meter for 30 minutes. This provides greater assurance for applications that require more prolonged or deeper submersion protection.