Difference Between IP67 and IP68: Which Waterproof Rating Is Better

Learn the difference between IP67 and IP68 ratings for electrical equipment. Discover how waterproof protection prevents electrical leaks, improves HV equipment safety, and helps choose the right enclosure for outdoor and industrial applications.

Electrical equipment used outdoors or in harsh industrial environments must resist dust and water. This is especially important for high-voltage systems, testing devices, substations, and portable instruments.

Two common protection ratings are IP67 and IP68. Although they look similar, they are designed for different waterproof conditions.

This article explains the difference between IP67 and IP68 in simple terms.

What Do IP67 and IP68 Mean?

IP stands for “Ingress Protection.” The rating system is defined by the International Electrotechnical Commission under IEC 60529.

An IP rating contains two numbers:

  • First number = protection against dust
  • Second number = protection against water

For both IP67 and IP68:

  • “6” means completely dust tight
  • “7” and “8” describe different waterproof levels

What Does the “6” Mean in IP67 and IP68?

The first digit “6” means the enclosure is fully protected against dust.

This helps prevent:

  • Insulation contamination
  • Internal corrosion
  • Electrical leakage
  • Equipment damage

Dust protection is important for:

  • Substations
  • Outdoor transformers
  • Industrial plants
  • Mining environments
  • HV testing equipment

Both IP67 and IP68 provide the same dust protection level.

What Does IP67 Mean?

IP67 means the equipment can resist temporary water immersion.

According to IEC 60529, IP67 equipment is typically protected when immersed in water up to 1 meter deep for about 30 minutes.

IP67 is commonly used for:

  • Portable test instruments
  • Outdoor sensors
  • Industrial handheld devices
  • Battery testing equipment

IP67 protection is usually enough for rain, splashes, and accidental water exposure.

What Does IP68 Mean?

IP68 provides stronger waterproof protection than IP67.

IP68 equipment can handle continuous or deeper water immersion. The exact depth and duration depend on the manufacturer’s design.

IP68 is commonly used for:

  • Marine electrical systems
  • Underground installations
  • Flood-prone areas
  • Offshore energy systems
  • Harsh outdoor substations

IP68 equipment is designed for more severe wet conditions.

What Is the Main Difference Between IP67 and IP68?

The main difference is the level of water protection.

Feature IP67 IP68
Dust Protection Fully dust tight Fully dust tight
Water Protection Temporary immersion Long-term/deeper immersion
Typical Immersion 1 meter, 30 minutes Depends on manufacturer
Outdoor Rain Protection Yes Yes
Heavy Water Exposure Limited Better protection
Harsh Environments Good Excellent

Both ratings protect against dust, but IP68 offers stronger waterproof capability.

Which Is Better for Outdoor Electrical Equipment?

The answer depends on the environment.

IP67 Is Suitable When:

  • Equipment faces rain or splashing water
  • Temporary immersion may happen
  • Portability is important
  • Indoor and outdoor use are mixed

IP68 Is Better When:

  • Equipment operates in very wet areas
  • Flooding risks exist
  • Long-term outdoor exposure is expected
  • Maximum waterproof protection is required

Choosing the correct protection level improves equipment reliability and safety.

Why Is Waterproof Protection Important for HV Equipment?

Moisture is dangerous for high-voltage systems.

Water entering electrical equipment may cause:

  • Leakage current
  • Flashover
  • Insulation failure
  • Corrosion
  • Short circuits
  • Measurement errors

Proper enclosure protection helps maintain insulation strength and reduces failure risk.

For outdoor HV testing equipment, waterproof design is often essential.

Can IP68 Equipment Be Used Underwater Permanently?

Not always.

IP68 does not automatically mean permanent underwater operation under all conditions.

Manufacturers define:

  • Maximum water depth
  • Immersion duration
  • Environmental limits

Users should always check the product specifications.

Does IP68 Always Mean Better Quality?

No.

IP68 only describes enclosure protection against dust and water. It does not guarantee:

  • Better electrical accuracy
  • Higher durability
  • Better materials
  • Longer lifespan

Other design factors also matter.

How Are IP67 and IP68 Devices Tested?

Manufacturers perform tests based on IEC 60529 standards.

Testing may include:

  • Dust chamber testing
  • Water immersion testing
  • Seal inspection
  • Pressure resistance testing
  • Humidity testing

These tests verify the enclosure’s protection capability.

FAQs

Is IP68 completely waterproof?

IP68 provides strong waterproof protection, but operating conditions still matter. Always follow manufacturer specifications.

Can IP67 equipment be used in heavy rain?

Yes. IP67 equipment is suitable for rain, splashing water, and temporary immersion.

Which is better for substations: IP67 or IP68?

IP68 is usually better for harsh outdoor substations with high moisture exposure.

Does IP67 protect against dust?

Yes. IP67 equipment is completely dust tight.

Can water cause electrical leakage in HV systems?

Yes. Moisture can reduce insulation performance and increase leakage current.

Is IP68 required for all outdoor electrical equipment?

No. In many normal outdoor environments, IP67 protection is sufficient.

How do waterproof enclosures improve safety?

They reduce water ingress, protect insulation, and lower the risk of electrical faults.

Are IP67 and IP68 ratings defined by IEC standards?

Yes. Both ratings are defined under IEC 60529.

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