When it comes to protection against water and dust, the IP rating is often seen as a benchmark for performance: the higher the rating, the better the protection. Thus, a product certified as IP69 is frequently considered "superior" and suitable for all situations. However, this idea is based on a partial understanding of the IP (Ingress Protection) standard. In reality, each IP rating is designed to address specific needs, and a very high rating is not always the ideal solution. In some cases, choosing an unsuitable rating can even lead to unnecessary costs or constraints.

In this article, we will demystify the IP standard, explain what it truly represents, and help you identify the rating that best fits your needs. You’ll discover that it’s not always necessary to aim for the highest rating but rather the one that perfectly matches your application. 

What is an IP Rating?

An IP (Ingress Protection) rating is an international standard that measures a device’s level of protection against dust, solids, and liquids. The rating is composed of two digits:

• First digit (0 to 6): Indicates protection against solids, such as dust.
• Second digit (0 to 9): Indicates protection against liquids, such as water.

For example, an IP56 rating means the device is partially protected against dust and microscopic particles (5) and protected against strong water jets from any direction (6). It’s important to note that each digit represents an independent level of protection designed for specific conditions.

Beware of Misconceptions: A High IP Rating Doesn’t Guarantee Better Overall Performance

A common misconception is that if a product is certified IP69, it automatically meets all lower IP protection standards (like IP65 or IP67). In reality, IP ratings are not cumulative or hierarchically linear. Each IP rating is independently tested for specific protection levels, and an IP69-certified product hasn’t necessarily passed the tests for lower ratings.

For example, an IP69 product is tested to withstand high-temperature, high-pressure water jets but doesn’t guarantee resistance to submersion, as an IP67 product would. Therefore, an IP69 device might not be suitable for prolonged immersion in water, unlike an IP67 device specifically designed for such conditions.

How to Select the Best IP Rating for Your Specific Needs

Selecting the right IP rating depends on several factors: the environment of use, the type of protection required, and durability demands. Here’s an overview of common IP levels and their potential applications:

IP54: Protection against dust and water splashes from all directions. Ideal for indoor use or equipment that is slightly exposed to the elements, such as electronic devices that don’t face direct rain or dust.

IP65: Fully protected against dust and against water jets from all directions (nozzle of 6.3 mm, distance of 2.5 to 3 m, flow rate 12.5 l/min ±5%). Perfect for outdoor equipment exposed to rain or dust, such as security cameras.

IP66: Fully dust-tight and protected against strong water jets from all directions (nozzle of 12.5 mm, distance 2.5 m to 3 m, flow rate 100 l/min ±5%). Suitable for outdoor environments with harsh weather conditions, ensuring the equipment operates without risk of dust or water infiltration.

IP67: Dust-tight and protected against temporary immersion in water (up to 1 meter depth for 30 minutes). Ideal for mobile devices, outdoor electronics, or temporary marine applications.

IP68: Fully dust-tight and suitable for immersion beyond 1 meter, under conditions specified by the manufacturer regarding duration and pressure. Used for devices intended for underwater environments or equipment exposed to repeated immersion.

IP69: Fully dust-tight and resistant to high-pressure, high-temperature water jets from multiple directions. Designed for demanding industrial environments such as food processing or high-pressure cleaning operations.

For further details, a guide on IP ratings is available on the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) website, detailing the meaning of each digit.