The IP67 bearing units are designed for industries with continuously heavier demands on the material resistance and a design for easy-to-clean

Published in: Food processing and pharmaceutical equipment

IP67 vs. IP68: Understanding the Difference in Waterproof Ratings

Author Henning Dahl Nielsen

Published on: 4. January 2025

IP67 vs. IP68: Which Waterproof Standard Suits Your Needs?

The terms “IP67” and “IP68” are often associated with waterproof and dustproof devices. These ratings define the degree of protection a device offers against solids and liquids, making them critical in industries such as manufacturing, electronics, food processing, and more. While they may seem similar, their differences can significantly affect their performance and suitability for specific applications.

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What Are IP Ratings?

IP (Ingress Protection) ratings are a standardized system defined by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). They indicate the level of protection provided by an enclosure against the intrusion of foreign objects, including dust and water.

Each IP rating consists of two digits:

The first digit refers to protection against solid particles (dust, dirt).
The second digit refers to protection against liquids (water, chemicals).

For example:

IP67: Dust-tight and protected against temporary immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes.
IP68: Dust-tight and protected against continuous immersion in water beyond 1 meter, typically up to a depth specified by the manufacturer.

Breaking Down IP67

Protection Against Dust

IP67-rated devices are completely dust-tight, ensuring no ingress of solid particles. This makes them ideal for environments like food and pharmaceutical processing, where hygiene and cleanliness are paramount.

Protection Against Water

An IP67 rating guarantees temporary immersion protection. This means the device can be submerged in water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes without being damaged. It’s commonly used in products such as machine leveling feet, hygienic bearings, and outdoor equipment.

Typical Applications of IP67

Food Processing Equipment: Ensures hygienic standards in washdown environments.
Outdoor Electronics: Safeguards against rain and accidental splashes.
Automotive Components: Withstands exposure to water during routine vehicle use.

Understanding IP68

Protection Against Dust

Similar to IP67, IP68-rated devices are entirely dust-tight, providing maximum defense against solid contaminants.

Protection Against Water

The key differentiator for IP68 is its superior water resistance. Devices with this rating can withstand continuous immersion in water beyond 1 meter. The exact depth and duration are defined by the manufacturer, allowing for use in more demanding environments.

Typical Applications of IP68

Submersible Pumps: Operates efficiently in continuous underwater conditions.
Marine Equipment: Protects against prolonged exposure to seawater.
Industrial Equipment: Designed for harsh environments with extreme moisture levels.

Key Differences Between IP67 and IP68

Feature	IP67	IP68
Dust Protection	Fully Dust-Tight	Fully Dust-Tight
Water Resistance	Temporary Immersion (1m, 30 min)	Continuous Immersion (>1m)
Typical Use Cases	Hygienic environments, electronics	Marine, industrial, extreme cases
Cost Implications	Generally More Affordable	Higher Cost Due to Enhanced Design

While both ratings ensure high levels of protection, IP68 offers greater resilience in water, making it the better choice for applications requiring prolonged immersion. However, the added capabilities of IP68 often come with higher costs and potentially more complex maintenance requirements.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Between IP67 and IP68

1. Application Environment

Evaluate whether your product or equipment will be exposed to water temporarily or continuously. For instance:

Food processing machinery may suffice with IP67, as cleaning processes often involve temporary washdowns.
Submersible pumps or underwater robotics would benefit from IP68 due to prolonged water exposure.

2. Cost and Design Constraints

Higher protection levels often translate to increased costs. It’s essential to balance the protection level with your budget and the environmental demands of your application.

3. Maintenance Requirements

Devices rated IP68 may require additional checks and maintenance to ensure the seals remain effective under continuous water pressure.

Industry Insights: IP Ratings in Critical Sectors

Food and Beverage Industry

In hygienic and sanitary environments, IP67 components like waterproof bearing units and stainless-steel leveling feet are prevalent. These ratings meet stringent washdown requirements without the need for IP68’s extended water resistance.

Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology Industries

IP67-rated components ensure contamination-free processing, but IP68 may be needed for equipment submerged during sterilization cycles.

Marine and Underwater Applications

IP68 is indispensable in these environments, as equipment must withstand constant exposure to water and pressure. Examples include underwater sensors, diving equipment, and marine-grade motors.

Choosing the Right Protection

Both IP67 and IP68 offer excellent protection against dust and water. The choice depends on your specific application requirements:

Opt for IP67 if your equipment needs reliable protection against dust and occasional water exposure.
Choose IP68 for more demanding environments requiring continuous or deeper immersion in water.

Understanding these ratings ensures optimal performance, longevity, and cost-efficiency of your equipment, making it a crucial consideration in product selection and design.

Why Verifying IP Ratings Matters: Ensuring Durability and Performance in Challenging Environments

When selecting components or devices, always verify the manufacturer’s specifications for precise details on water resistance, especially for IP68-rated products, as immersion depths and durations vary. Whether you’re designing for hygienic environments or extreme underwater conditions, choosing the right IP rating can make all the difference in durability and performance.