Definition: An ingress protection code showing resistance to dust and water. “6” means dust-tight, and “8” typically means tested for submersion beyond 1 meter for a set time under lab conditions. It does not cover salt water, high-pressure jets, or wear-and-tear. Water damage is usually excluded from warranties.
The IP68 rating is an international standard that classifies the degree of protection provided by electrical enclosures against the intrusion of solid objects and liquids. It’s commonly seen in specifications for smartphones, smartwatches, and other electronic devices.
Let’s break down what “IP68” means:
- IP stands for Ingress Protection.
- The first digit (6) refers to protection against solids (like dust, dirt, and sand).
- The second digit (8) refers to protection against liquids (like water).
First Digit: Protection Against Solids (6)
A rating of 6 means the device is:
- Dust tight: No ingress of dust. Complete protection against contact.
This is the highest possible rating for solid particle protection.
Second Digit: Protection Against Liquids (8)
A rating of 8 means the device is:
- Protected against continuous immersion in water: The equipment is suitable for continuous immersion in water under conditions which shall be specified by the manufacturer. These conditions will normally be more severe than for a 7.
This typically means the device can be submerged in water up to a certain depth (often 1.5 to 2 meters) for a certain duration (usually up to 30 minutes), and still function correctly. The exact depth and time are usually specified by the manufacturer.
In Summary:
An IP68 rating means a device is:
- Completely protected against dust.
- Protected against continuous submersion in water beyond 1 meter. The specific depth and duration will vary by manufacturer but it generally means it can handle more than just a splash or quick dip.
Example: A quick rinse under a tap after a spill, then drying carefully.
Also called: IP68
Related: Corning Gorilla Glass