What is the IP68 rating?

The IP68 rating is an internationally recognized standard that classifies the degree of protection provided by a device against solid objects (like dust) and liquids (such as water). The rating consists of two digits, where each digit represents a specific level of protection. The first digit ranges from 0 to 6 and indicates the level of protection against solid objects, while the second digit ranges from 0 to 8 and represents the level of protection against liquids.

Understanding the first digit: Protection against solids

The first digit in the IP68 rating signifies the level of protection offered by a device against solid objects like dust, debris, or other particles. Here's a breakdown of what each digit means:

- 0 offers no protection against solids and is not used in the IP68 rating.

- 1 provides protection against objects larger than 50mm, such as a hand or large tools.

- 2 offers protection against objects larger than 12.5mm, like fingers or small tools.

- 3 protects against objects larger than 2.5mm, such as small wires or thick screws.

- 4 provides protection against objects larger than 1mm, such as thin wires or fine screws.

- 5 offers limited protection against dust, but it should not completely enter the device.

- 6 provides complete protection against dust, making the device dust-tight.

Decoding the second digit: Safeguarding against liquids

The second digit in the IP68 rating represents the level of protection provided against liquids. Let's take a closer look at each number:

- 0 offers no protection against liquids and is not used in the IP68 rating.

- 1 protects devices against vertically falling water droplets, but offers limited defense.

- 2 provides protection against angled water drops up to 15 degrees from vertical.

- 3 safeguards devices from sprays of water up to 60 degrees from vertical.

- 4 offers protection against splashing water from any direction.

- 5 protects against water jets projected from a nozzle at any direction.

- 6 defends against powerful water jets and heavy seas.

- 7 provides protection against temporary immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes.

- 8 offers continuous immersion in water beyond 1 meter for extended periods, specific to individual products.

Conclusion

In summary, the IP68 rating is an important standard that determines a device's resistance to solids and liquids. The first digit indicates the level of protection against solids, while the second digit represents the level of protection against liquids. Understanding the IP68 rating will help you make informed decisions when choosing electronic devices that can withstand environmental challenges and suit your needs.