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This comprehensive guide will delve deeper into the definitions, testing procedures, differences, applications and other essential aspects of IP68 vs. IP69 ratings, shedding light on their significance in the design and application of modern electronic devices.
The IP code, also known as the International Protection Marking or Ingress Protection, classifies and rates the protection provided by an enclosure against solids (like dust) and liquids (like water). The IP code consists of two digits, each representing a specific level of protection. The first number signifies protection against solid particles, while the second number represents immunity from liquid particles.
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The IP68 rating signifies an enclosure that is dust-tight and capable of withstanding immersion beyond 1 meter in water for a specified time (usually 30 minutes to 1 hour). The “6” in the first digit indicates complete protection against dust and other solid particles, while the “8” in the second digit indicates its ability to withstand water immersion beyond 1 meter.
To achieve an IP68 rating, a device must undergo strict testing. The dust test involves exposing the device to a controlled amount of dust in a dust chamber, ensuring no dust particles enter the enclosure. In the water immersion test, the device should continue functioning normally after the test to obtain the IP68 certification.
The IP69 rating offers protection against high-pressure liquids and steam cleaning, in addition to being dust-tight. The “6” in the first digit signifies the same dust protection as in IP68. The “9” in the second digit indicates the device’s ability to withstand close-range high-pressure, high-temperature water jets (ranging from 80 to 100 bar) and steam cleaning.
To achieve an IP69 rating, devices must undergo additional and more intensive testing compared to IP68. The high-pressure water jet test involves subjecting the device to powerful water jets from multiple angles and distances. The device’s enclosure, which can be a NEMA enclosure, should prevent water ingress, ensuring its internal components remain protected. Additionally, the steam cleaning test simulates intense cleaning conditions, ensuring the device remains impervious to high-temperature steam.
While both IP68 and IP69 ratings offer a high level of protection, there are distinct differences that make each rating suitable for different applications and environments. These differences include the following:
Water Ingress Protection: As mentioned above, IP68 devices can withstand continuous immersion beyond 1 meter, making them ideal for underwater applications. On the other hand, IP69 devices are designed to endure high-pressure water jets and steam cleaning, but they may not be suitable for prolonged submersion.
Intended Use: IP68-rated devices are commonly found in outdoor lighting and various industrial applications. IP69, with its robust protection against high-pressure cleaning, is commonly used in environments that require frequent and intense cleaning, such as food processing, medical equipment and certain industrial settings.
Both IP68- and IP69-rated devices find applications in various industries, depending on the specific environmental conditions and requirements. Here are some factors to consider:
While both IP68 and IP69 ratings offer significant protection against dust and water, they each come with their advantages and limitations that are essential to consider when choosing the appropriate rating for a specific application.
Complete Dust Protection: Devices with an IP68 rating are dust-tight, providing a high level of protection against fine particles and debris. This is especially beneficial for devices operating in dusty and challenging environments, such as construction sites or mining operations.
Continuous Immersion Capability: IP68 devices can withstand immersion in water beyond 1 meter for a considerable time. This makes them suitable for applications where devices may be exposed to water for extended periods, like underwater cameras or marine equipment.
Limited Water Pressure Resistance: While IP68 devices can withstand immersion in water, they may not be suitable for applications that involve high-pressure water. The rating does not guarantee protection against such conditions.
Prolonged Submersion Concerns: While IP68 devices can endure immersion, prolonged submersion in water can still lead to potential water ingress over time. This limitation is critical to consider for devices that will be subjected to continuous underwater use.
High-Pressure Water Jet Resistance: IP69 devices are specifically designed to withstand close-range, high-pressure water jets. This makes them ideal for industries that require extensive cleaning procedures, such as the food and beverage industry, where equipment must be sanitized regularly.
Steam Cleaning Capability: The IP69 rating ensures that devices can withstand steam cleaning processes, offering a level of protection required for medical devices and certain industrial equipment where sterilization is essential.
Enhanced Durability: The stringent testing procedures for IP69 certification result in devices with a higher level of protection and enhanced durability, making them suitable for demanding and challenging environments.
No Continuous Immersion Guarantee: Unlike IP68, IP69 does not offer specific protection against prolonged immersion in water. Devices with IP69 ratings may not be suitable for applications requiring continuous underwater use.
Increased Design and Cost Complexity: Achieving the IP69 rating may require more complex and specialized enclosure designs, such as a NEMA enclosure, leading to increased manufacturing costs. This could impact the overall product design and pricing.
Selecting the appropriate IP rating for electronic devices depends on various factors, including the device’s intended use, the environmental conditions it will be exposed to, and the cleaning requirements of the application. Manufacturers must carefully evaluate these factors to ensure the chosen IP rating meets the device’s specific needs.
In some cases, the IP68 rating may be sufficient for general outdoor applications where continuous immersion is not required. On the other hand, IP69-rated devices are more suitable for industries like food processing, medical equipment and agriculture, where sterilization are critical.
While IP68 and IP69 are widely recognized for their robust protection against dust and water, there are even higher levels of IP ratings available for specialized applications that demand extreme environmental protection. These ratings offer enhanced security against dust, water and other elements, making them suitable for specific industries and challenging conditions. Let’s explore some of the IP ratings beyond IP68 and IP69.
IP66: The IP66 rating indicates that the device is dust-tight, providing complete protection against dust ingress. Additionally, it offers protection against powerful water jets from any direction, though it does not provide protection against immersion in water. IP66-rated devices are commonly found in outdoor equipment, industrial enclosures and outdoor security cameras.
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IP67: Like IP66, IP67 devices are also dust-tight, but they offer the added advantage of being able to withstand temporary immersion in water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes. This makes them suitable for applications where temporary exposure to water is possible, such as marine electronics.
IPX8: The “X” in the IPX8 rating indicates that the device has not been tested for dust protection, but it provides a level of water resistance beyond IPX7. IPX8 devices are designed to withstand continuous immersion in water beyond 1 meter for a specified time. This rating is often seen in high-end waterproof smartphones, underwater cameras and diving equipment.
When selecting the appropriate IP rating for a device, it is essential to consider the specific environmental conditions and cleaning requirements. For general outdoor applications, IP66 or IP67 may provide sufficient protection against dust and water. For devices requiring submersion, IPX8 may be appropriate. However, for industries demanding frequent and intense cleaning, such as food processing or medical equipment, the IP69K rating offers the highest level of protection.
IP68 and IP69 are crucial IP ratings that determine the level of protection against dust and water ingress for electronic devices. Understanding these ratings’ differences and testing procedures ensures the optimal performance and durability of your electronic devices across various segments and applications. At Polycase, finding the right ABS enclosure, polycarbonate enclosure and more can be simple with our countless options.
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