What is an IP68 Enclosure?

Protecting your electronics from water and dust can feel overwhelming. IP68 enclosures promise superior protection. But are they the best option?

IP68 enclosures provide water and dust resistance, ideal for harsh environments. Their high durability ensures long-term reliability. Learn more about IP68 standards and applications ¹

Understanding IP68 enclosures helps you choose the best protection for your equipment. Let’s dive deeper.

What material is IP68 made of?

Choosing the right material for enclosures is tricky. The material impacts durability, performance, and environmental protection.

IP68 enclosures are typically made of plastic, aluminum, or stainless steel for their protective properties.

Materials for IP68 enclosures are selected based on the intended use.

Common Materials Used

Material	Key Benefits	Typical Applications
Plastic	Lightweight, cost-effective	Consumer electronics, lightweight tools
Aluminum	Corrosion-resistant, customizable	Industrial equipment, outdoor use
Stainless Steel	Extreme durability, heavy-duty protection	Medical devices, high-stress environments

Plastic enclosures are lightweight and affordable but less durable. Aluminum offers a balance of weight and corrosion resistance. Stainless steel is the most robust but often the heaviest and costliest.

Material Selection Factors

• Environment: High humidity or saltwater exposure favors aluminum or stainless steel.
• Cost: Plastic suits budget-sensitive projects.
• Aesthetic Needs: Aluminum allows custom finishes for branding.

Your choice should align with your specific application, balancing protection and cost.

Is IP68 better than IP66?

Comparing IP68 and IP66 ratings can be confusing. The difference lies in their level of protection.

IP68 enclosures offer greater protection against water immersion than IP66, which protects against high-pressure jets.

IP ratings consist of two numbers: the first measures solid ingress, and the second measures liquid ingress.

IP Ratings Comparison

Rating	Solid Protection	Water Protection	Example Usage
IP66	Dust-tight	Resistant to powerful water jets	Outdoor equipment
IP68	Dust-tight	Submersible in water beyond 1m depth	Submersible pumps, marine equipment

When to Choose IP68

• Underwater Usage: IP68 is essential for devices submerged in water, such as underwater cameras.
• Long-Term Exposure: Prolonged exposure to harsh conditions demands the superior sealing of IP68.

If water submersion isn't a factor, IP66 may suffice, offering excellent durability at a lower cost.

What is the IP68 rating for enclosures?

Understanding the IP68 rating ensures you know its limits. This rating sets high standards for resistance to both dust and water.

IP68 enclosures are dust-tight and withstand water immersion deeper than 1 meter for extended periods.

The IP code defines protection levels using specific criteria.

IP Code Breakdown

Element	Description	IP68 Specification
1st Digit (6)	Dust Protection	Complete protection from dust ingress
2nd Digit (8)	Water Protection	Submersible beyond 1m depth

IP68 doesn’t mean unlimited waterproofing. Testing conditions often include immersion for 30 minutes at specific depths. Beyond that, specialized designs may be necessary.

Practical Applications

• Marine Environments: Protects electronics used underwater or near seawater.
• Industrial Settings: Ensures robust performance in dusty or wet conditions.

IP68-rated enclosures ensure maximum safety for critical equipment under demanding conditions.

How to waterproof a plastic enclosure?

Waterproofing plastic enclosures can be challenging. Achieving an IP68 rating requires precision and high-quality materials.

Waterproofing a plastic enclosure involves using seals, gaskets, and adhesives to ensure no water ingress.

Creating a waterproof enclosure requires attention to design and assembly.

Steps to Waterproof Plastic Enclosures

1. Use High-Quality Gaskets: Install silicone or rubber gaskets around openings for a watertight seal.
2. Apply Waterproof Coatings: Protect the enclosure with a water-resistant coating or spray.
3. Seal Entry Points: Use cable glands or plugs to secure entry points for wires.
4. Test for Leaks: Perform immersion testing to ensure water does not penetrate.

Gasket Materials

Material	Benefits	Applications
Silicone	Flexible, durable, heat-resistant	High-temperature environments
EPDM Rubber	UV-resistant, cost-effective	Outdoor applications
Neoprene	Resistant to oils and chemicals	Industrial settings

Proper waterproofing protects your enclosure from water damage, even under harsh conditions.

Conclusion

IP68 enclosures provide unparalleled protection against dust and water, making them ideal for harsh environments. Understanding materials, ratings, and waterproofing ensures you select the best option for your needs.