IP Rating Decoder: The Ultimate Guide to IP54, IP65, IP67, IP68 for B2B Cases
Complete IP rating guide. IP54 vs IP65 vs IP67 vs IP68, real test methods, which rating for which application.
Direct answer: IP ratings are defined in IEC 60529. First digit = solid particle (0-6), second = water (0-9). For B2B cases: IP54 (entry), IP65 (mid-range), IP67 (most common, 1m/30 min), IP68 (premium, 1.5m+ extended). Kexin 0系=IP54, 6系/7系=IP65, 8系/9系/拉杆=IP67/IP68.
First Digit — Solid Particle Protection
| Digit | Protection | Test |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | Dust-protected | Talcum 8h |
| 6 | Dust-tight | Talcum 8h + vacuum |
Second Digit — Water Protection
| Digit | Protection | Test |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | Water jets (6.3mm) | 12.5 L/min, 3 min, 3m |
| 6 | Powerful jets (12.5mm) | 100 L/min, 3 min, 3m |
| 7 | Immersion 1m / 30 min | 30 min submerged |
| 8 | Immersion 1.5m+ extended | Per spec |
Which Rating for Which Application?
| Application | Recommended | Kexin Series |
|---|---|---|
| Office / indoor | IP54 | 0系 |
| Construction / outdoor industrial | IP65 | 6系, 7系 |
| Marine / boat | IP67 | 8系, 9系, 拉杆 |
| Defense / military | IP67 or IP68 | 8系 IP68 models |
| Submarine / deep-sea | IP68 + pressure-rated | Custom OEM |
| Medical (FDA cleanroom) | IP65 minimum | 6系 ABS |
| Photography / drone (rain) | IP65 or IP67 | 6系, 8系 |
Kexin Test Methods
- IP54: 6.3mm nozzle, 12.5 L/min, 3 min
- IP65: 12.5mm nozzle, 100 L/min, 3 min from 3m
- IP67: immersion 1m for 30 min
- IP68: immersion 1.5m for 24+ hours (Kexin standard 24h)
Test reports: USD 100 per IP67 report, USD 100 per IP68 report.
Common Misconceptions
IP68 doesn't mean waterproof forever
IP68 is manufacturer-defined for depth/time. Kexin IP68 = 1.5m for 24 hours. Other brands may differ.
Can I upgrade IP after production?
No. IP rating is determined by case design (gasket, latches, drain). Changing gaskets can slightly improve (IP54 → IP65) but major changes need new tooling.
FAQ
Is IP rating the same as waterproof?
No. IP is technical. "Waterproof" is marketing with no standard definition. IP67/IP68 = water-protected to defined limits.
What about IP69K (high-pressure cleaning)?
For 80°C water at 80-100 bar, common in food industry. Kexin offers IP69K-rated cases for food/pharma on request (1,000+ MOQ).
Do I need a higher IP rating than my environment?
Allow margin. If IP65 needed, consider IP67 for accidental drops in water. Cost difference is small, insurance valuable.