What Does IP68 Rating Mean?
The IP68 rating, part of the IEC 60529 standard, defines a device’s protection against dust and water ingress. The “6” indicates complete dust resistance, while the “8” certifies prolonged submersion in water beyond 1 meter. This rating is critical for smartphones, wearables, and industrial equipment, ensuring reliability in harsh environments and boosting consumer trust.
IP68 vs. Other Ratings: Key Differences
While IP67 offers temporary water resistance (up to 1 meter for 30 minutes), IP68 requires stricter testing:
- Deeper Immersion: Submersion depth and duration are manufacturer-defined, often exceeding 1.5 meters for 1+ hours.
- Dustproof Superiority: IP6X (dust-tight) ensures no ingress of fine particles, unlike lower ratings like IP54.
Inside the IP68 Test Chamber: Technology & Components
BONAD’s iP68 series test chambers simulate extreme conditions with precision:
- IP6X Dust Test Chamber:
- Circulates talcum powder at ≥2kg/m³ density for 8+ hours.
- Negative pressure testing to validate sealing integrity.
- IPX8 Water Immersion Chamber:
- Pressure Control: Adjustable up to 10 meters (0.1–1.0 MPa).
- Temperature Range: -20°C to 60°C for thermal shock testing.
- Real-Time Monitoring: High-resolution cameras track leaks without test interruption.
BONAD Chamber Advantages:
- Customizable profiles (time, pressure gradients, particle types).
- Compliant with IEC 60529, ISO 20653, and MIL-STD-810G standards.
Step-by-Step IP68 Testing Process
1. Pre-Test Preparation
- Device Sealing Check: Verify gaskets, ports, and enclosures.
- Chamber Calibration: Ensure pressure, temperature, and dust systems meet specifications.
2. Waterproof Testing Protocol
- Controlled Submersion: Gradually increase pressure (e.g., 0.03 MPa for 3 meters).
- Extended Duration: 30 minutes to 24 hours, depending on product use cases.
- Post-Test Analysis: Disassemble devices to inspect PCB, battery compartments, and sensors.
3. Dust Resistance Evaluation
- Continuous Exposure: 8-hour dust circulation at controlled humidity.
- Functionality Test: Validate buttons, speakers, and ports post-exposure.
Interpreting IP68 Test Results
- Pass Criteria: Zero water/dust ingress; full operational functionality.
- Common Failures: Faulty seals, micro-gaps in welds, or connector vulnerabilities.
- BONAD Reporting: Detailed logs with pressure curves, thermal data, and visual evidence for compliance audits.
Why Choose BONAD for IP68 Certification?
- Tailored Solutions: Design-specific testing for consumer electronics, automotive, or military gear.
- Global Compliance: Expertise in CE, FCC, and ISO certifications.
- End-to-End Support: From prototype validation to mass production QA.
Conclusion
IP68 certification is a non-negotiable benchmark for durable electronics. With BONAD’s cutting-edge test chambers and expert guidance, manufacturers can ensure compliance, reduce R&D risks, and deliver market-ready products.
Contact BONAD Today:
📧 zhy@szbonad.com | 📞 Request a quote for iP68 test chambers
