An IP rating has two digits. The first is protection against solids, the second against liquids. Higher isn’t always better – an IP69K connector costs more than an IP67 one, and you only pay for it if your process actually needs washdown.
What the digits mean
| First digit (solids) | Meaning | Second digit (liquids) | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | Dust-protected (limited ingress) | 5 | Low-pressure water jets |
| 6 | Dust-tight | 6 | Powerful water jets |
| 7 | Immersion up to 1 m, 30 min | ||
| 8 | Continuous immersion, depth specified | ||
| 9K | High-pressure, high-temperature jets |
The ratings you’ll actually meet
IP65
Dust-tight and survives low-pressure jets. Fine for indoor equipment that gets hosed gently. Not for submersion.
IP67
Dust-tight and survives temporary immersion up to a metre for 30 minutes. This is the default for factory floor connectors, including our M12 and M8 ranges.
IP68
Same as IP67 but rated for continuous immersion at a depth the manufacturer specifies. Used outdoors and in marine equipment.
IP69K
Built for high-pressure, high-temperature washdown – think food, beverage and pharmaceutical lines. The connector has to be mated to hit this rating; an unmated IP69K connector is just a plug.
One thing people miss
The rating applies to the mated pair, not the connector alone. A loose or unmated connector has no protection whatever its label says. When you test or inspect, check the whole connection, not just the part number.
Tell us your environment and we’ll recommend the right IP rating and part.