The IP rating is a measure of a product’s ability to resist water intrusion, ensuring that a humid environment will not damage the internal structure. Before purchasing waterproof lighting products, you must fully understand the meaning of the IP rating. The IP68 rating represents the top level of waterproof and dustproof performance.
With the use of lighting and the prevalence of outdoor lighting activities, having products that can operate stably outdoors and underwater has become a major market demand. Therefore, the key role played by the IP68 rating system provides users with a clear basis for selection. Then let’s analyze the specific meaning and use of the IP68 waterproof rating.
Understanding the IP Rating System
IP stands for Ingress Protection, an internationally recognized standard used to define the level of protection of electrical equipment housings against solid and liquid intrusion. The IP rating consists of two digits, each representing a different aspect of protection:
- The first digit: indicates the level of protection against solid objects (such as dust and dirt).
- The second digit: indicates the level of protection against liquids (especially water).
- If the larger the number in each category, the higher the protection level.
What Does IP68 Waterproof Mean?
The IP68 waterproof rating is the highest level of waterproof rating. When you choose, you still need to confirm the application scenario of IP68 with the supplier. Now, let’s analyze the IP68 rating:
- IP6: The first digit “6” indicates complete protection against dust ingress. This means that no dust particles can enter the device housing.
- IP8: The second digit “8” indicates the highest level of waterproof protection. Devices with an IP68 rating can withstand immersion in water under certain conditions, however, the exact immersion depth and duration may vary depending on the manufacturer’s specifications.
- The IP68 rating has excellent waterproof properties, so it can be used outdoors, even underwater. And it is suitable for use in a variety of humid environments. However, it should be noted that the waterproof performance of different manufacturers and devices may vary.
Typically, devices with an IP68 rating can be immersed in water for a limited time and depth, and the IP68 neon flex light strips we produce can be put into water for use at a depth of 2 meters, suitable for swimming pools.
IP68 vs. Other IP Ratings: What’s the Difference?
IP68 is the highest level of water resistance. If you need to know about other water resistance ratings, let’s compare IP68 to other IP water resistance ratings.
- IP67: Similar to IP68, IP67 also provides full protection against dust (IP6), but with a slightly lower level of water resistance (IP7). Devices with an IP67 rating can be used outdoors, but we do not recommend underwater use.
- IP65: Provides full protection against dust (IP6) and water jets from any direction (IP5). While an IP65 device is not suitable for immersion in water, it can withstand splashes or water jets.
- IP54: IP54-rated devices have a lower level of dust (IP5) and water resistance (IP4), are only splash-proof, and are not suitable for immersion in water or exposure to high-pressure water jets.
Application scenarios of IP68 waterproof light strips
IP68 waterproof light strips are an excellent example of the application of this rating in real-world scenarios. These light strips are designed to withstand harsh environmental conditions, including exposure to water: More details, pls read 6 Different Ways to LED Strips Light Waterproof
- Outdoor lighting: IP68 waterproof light strips can be used for outdoor decoration. Such as lighting up gardens and terraces, without worrying about rain or moisture. In addition, it can be used for landscape lighting to enhance the beauty of outdoor spaces.
- Pool and aquarium lighting: For those who want to add a touch of ambiance to their pool or aquarium. IP68 waterproof light strips can be submerged in water to create stunning underwater lighting effects.
- Commercial venues: IP68 waterproof LED light strips are suitable for outdoor areas of restaurants or cafes to attract customers. They are used for exterior lighting of commercial buildings to enhance nighttime visual effects.
- Marine applications: In marine environments, reliable lighting is used to enhance the atmosphere of ships and yachts. They are used for lighting in coastal areas and withstand harsh weather conditions.
These venues can take advantage of the durability and waterproof performance of IP68 waterproof light strips to ensure stable lighting effects in various weather conditions. If you need buy neon flex, pls check Everything You Need to Know Before Buying LED Neon Flex
Summary
We need to understand the meaning of IP68 and how it compares to other IP ratings, so that you can better choose the waterproof rating. If you need a waterproof LED light strip for swimming pools or underwater, please choose IP68 waterproof neon flex, please contact us.