IP (Ingress Protection) ratings are printed on almost every industrial component, yet they are frequently misunderstood. An IP67 switch is not automatically right for a food plant, and an IP65 enclosure is not a waterproof box. This guide explains what the IP code actually means per IEC 60529, so you can match the rating to the real environment.
1. How to Read the IP Code
An IP rating has the form IP followed by two digits: IPX Y. The first digit (0–6) rates protection against solid objects and dust; the second digit (0–8) rates protection against water. Higher numbers mean better protection.
- First digit (solids): 0 = no protection, 4 = objects >1 mm (wires, tools), 5 = dust-protected, 6 = dust-tight (most industrial components)
- Second digit (water): 0 = none, 4 = splashing water, 5 = water jets, 6 = powerful water jets, 7 = temporary immersion (up to 1 m depth), 8 = continuous immersion
2. Common Ratings and What They Mean
| Rating | Meaning | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| IP20 | Protected against fingers; no water protection | Indoor control cabinets, panels |
| IP54 | Dust-protected, splash-proof | Indoor machines, general components |
| IP65 | Dust-tight, protected against water jets | Outdoor cabinets, washable machinery |
| IP66 | Dust-tight, powerful water jets | Heavy washdown, outdoor equipment |
| IP67 | Dust-tight, temporary immersion (1 m, 30 min) | Sensors and switches in wet environments |
| IP68 | Dust-tight, continuous immersion (depth per manufacturer) | Submersible devices |
| IP69K | Dust-tight, high-pressure/high-temp washdown (DIN 40050-9) | Food and beverage processing, vehicle washdown |
3. Choosing the Right Rating for Your Application
- Indoor control cabinet, dry environment → IP20–IP54. Paying for IP67 where it is not needed adds cost and limits options.
- Outdoor or washable machinery → IP65–IP66. Protects against rain and washdown jets without the cost of submersion ratings.
- Frequently wet, flooded, or hose-down environments → IP67. The standard for sensors and safety switches in wet plants — e.g. a Schmersal safety switch rated IP67 on a washdown line.
- Continuous submersion → IP68. Only for devices that will actually sit underwater; note that the rated depth and duration are manufacturer-specific.
- Food processing with high-pressure hot washdown → IP69K. The only rating that covers the aggressive cleaning regimes of food and beverage plants.
4. Common Misconceptions
- "IP67 means waterproof." No — IP67 means short-term immersion at 1 m for 30 minutes. Continuous submersion needs IP68 with a specified depth.
- "IP68 has no limits." IP68 depth and duration are defined by the manufacturer — check the datasheet, it is not unlimited.
- "Higher IP = better quality." IP ratings describe environmental protection only — a high IP does not imply higher electrical performance or durability against vibration, chemicals or UV.
- NEMA vs IP: NEMA 4X enclosures roughly correspond to IP66, and NEMA 6P to IP67/IP68 — but the test methods differ, so treat the comparison as approximate.
5. Verify Before You Buy
Always confirm the IP rating on the manufacturer's datasheet rather than the marketing material, and check it applies to the installed configuration — for connectors and cable glands, the rating often depends on proper mating and sealing, and the component's IP rating may not cover an unmated connector.
Buying Guide for Glorient Customers
Glorient supplies industrial components across the full IP range — from indoor switches to IP67/IP69K food-grade devices — with competitive pricing and worldwide delivery. To select the right rated product:
- Define the environment: indoor, outdoor, washdown, or submersion.
- Note the dust and water exposure levels from the table above.
- Send your application details via the quote request form or browse our safety switches and process instruments — our engineers will confirm the correct IP-rated model within 24 hours.
The IP code is a contract between manufacturer and user: it tells you exactly what environment the component can survive. Match it to the real conditions, and your equipment will last as designed.
Related IP67-Rated Products
IP ratings apply directly to the components you install. Examples of sealed Schmersal switches and sensors with IP67 or higher protection:
Frequently Asked Questions
What does IP67 actually mean?
The first digit 6 means the enclosure is completely dust-tight. The second digit 7 means it withstands immersion in water up to 1 metre for 30 minutes. IP67 equipment is sealed against both dust and temporary immersion.
What is the difference between IP65 and IP67?
IP65 protects against low-pressure water jets from any direction but is not submersible. IP67 adds protection against temporary immersion. For washdown with a hose, IP65 may suffice; for equipment that can be flooded or submerged, choose IP67 or IP68.
Which IP rating do I need for a washdown area?
For regular high-pressure washdown in food and pharmaceutical plants, specify IP69K - which is rated for high-temperature, high-pressure jets - rather than IP65/IP67. For ordinary hose-down duty, IP67 is usually adequate.