What is IP68 under IEC standard 60529

The Ingress Protection (IP) rating system, defined by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standard 60529, classifies and rates the degree of protection provided against the intrusion of solid objects, dust, water, and other environmental factors into electrical enclosures. This article will provide a thorough technical understanding of the IP68 rating and its significance.

Understanding the IP Rating System

The IP rating system consists of two digits. The first digit indicates the level of protection against solid objects, while the second digit represents the level of protection against liquids. Therefore, the IP68 rating pertains to the highest level of protection in both categories – solid objects and liquids.

The Meaning behind IP68

The first digit, 6, in the IP68 rating signifies that the enclosure is dust-tight, offering complete protection against the ingress of any solid object. This rating ensures that even the smallest particles and dust will not penetrate the enclosure.

The second digit, 8, indicates the level of protection in terms of liquids. An IP68-rated enclosure is both water-resistant and waterproof, providing protection against water immersion. It guarantees that the device can withstand continuous submersion in a specific water depth without sustaining damage or malfunction.

Considerations for IP68 Devices

While an IP68 rating implies excellent protection against dust and water, there are some important considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, it is essential to note that the rating does not imply complete protection against all forms of moisture. Chemicals, such as corrosive liquids, may still pose a risk to the device's performance.

Additionally, IP ratings are assigned under laboratory conditions and may differ from real-world scenarios. Factors like temperature, pressure, and duration of exposure can impact the overall performance of the device. Therefore, understanding the limitations of the IP68 rating is crucial.

In conclusion, the IP68 rating under IEC standard 60529 signifies the highest level of protection against the ingress of solid objects and water. Devices with this rating are completely dust-tight and can withstand continuous submersion. However, it is important to understand the limitations of the rating and consider real-world conditions when using IP68-rated devices.