IP67 vs IP68: Waterproof IP ratings explained in detail !!!!

IP67 vs IP68: IP ratings explained... 

Now, before jumping to the discussion, let's first understand "What is the meaning of water resistant" and adding on to that the next question that comes to the mind is "What is the meaning Water Proof" are they one and the same or is there any difference. Most of the time when asked this question people end up in giving wrong answers rather than confusing me they confuse themselves. Initially, even I was finding it difficult to convey it to others. Now I would go further and answer this questions.

What is Water Resistant?

If a product is labeled as “water-resistant,” it was designed specifically to resist damage by water. In most cases, products are coated with a light substance to help improve their ability to endure regular water exposure. This is a label you see commonly among products that resist regular exposure to water (hand-washing or light rain) but are not built to withstand any heavier exposure.


What is meant by Water Proof?

A waterproof label provides the highest level of water protection among all labels. “Waterproof” means that the surface of the product is completely impermeable. By using the process of seam sealing(the process of covering the stitch holes and seams in a fabric in order to prevent water leakage due to rain or snow), the internal fabrics are completely sealed from external conditions, truly making them water-proof. These products are designed to provide high levels of sustained protection during harsh conditions. Interestingly, waterproofing is a process that can also be done manually. By using a regular nonporous sealant, people can take a water-repellent product and upgrade it to waterproof in no time. 

With this basic knowledge, I think we can start our discussion on the IP ratings.

IP means Ingress Protection The IP Code (or International Protection Rating, sometimes also interpreted as Ingress Protection Rating*) consists of the letters IP followed by two digits and an optional letter. As defined in international standard IEC 60529, it classifies the degrees of protection provided against the intrusion of solid objects (including body parts like hands and fingers), dust, accidental contact, and water in electrical enclosures. The standard aims to provide users more detailed information than vague marketing terms such as waterproof.

For Example...
IP: This stands for the International Protection marking, a standard drawn up by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC).

6: The first digit stands for its resistance to dust, but also general dirt and sand. For example, the Samsung Galaxy S8 earned a ‘6’ rating for “No ingress of dust; complete protection against contact (dust tight)” following an 8-hour test.

7:– The second digit provides certification for water resistance. For our purposes, this is the important bit.7 rating ensures “ingress of water in harmful quantity shall not be possible when the enclosure is immersed in water under defined conditions of pressure and time (up to 1m of submersion)” according to the IEC.

While a 7 rating guarantees protection for up to 30 minutes. The Samsung Galaxy S8 received an 8 certification for water resistance, meaning it can be underwater for 30 minutes at depths of up to 1.5m

Just for making things clear, Refer to this picture and try to understand.

Well, that's not the end there are a lot more of IP ratings which I cannot explain in detail in this session. So wherein I will leave a link below so that you can understand all the different IP ratings.

Source: http://www.dsmt.com/pdf/resources/iprating.pdf.

So overall both the IP67 and IP68 are no doubt that they are Water Resistant but there are some precautions that you cannot use your smartphone under the water continuously.So, in essence, if you drop it down the toilet or into the bathtub while tweeting, you’ll probably be OK. If some careless beer criminal spills a full pint over it, it may be smelly and sticky for a while, but ultimately it’ll work just fine. If you jump in the pool with it still in your pocket there’s a much greater chance it’ll survive.

There is only one smartphone vendor which produces a fully Water Proof Smartphones.Well, you heard it right its fully Water Proof...

The credit goes to SONY, which released its Flagship phone Z1, Z2,  Z3 couple of years back which they claim it as a 100% Water Proof. Certainly, even I would believe and there is no word about it. If you guys have any doubt then Google Is always there for you.

The Flagship Sony Xperia Z2 was my favorite smartphone.

Capturing photos underwater with Sony Xperia Z2 which was one of the most trending posters couple of years back which is called Sony’s infamous promo photo.




Thank you guys for spending your time in reading my blog. Stay tuned for more updates !!!