In industrial and outdoor environments, electronic devices must withstand exposure to dust and water. The IP67 rating ensures a high level of protection, making it an ideal choice for Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs) in rugged applications. This article explores the significance of IP67, its advantages, and its practical applications in various industries.
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WHAT DOES IP67 MEAN?
Definition of the IP67 rating
The IP67 rating comes from the IEC 60529 standard. It demonstrates how well a device protects against solid objects and liquids.
- First digit (6): Full protection against dust and solid particles, ensuring no internal contamination.
- Second digit (7): Resistance to temporary immersion in water, withstanding depths of up to 1 meter for 30 minutes.
These features make IP67-rated devices dependable in environments with exposure to dust, moisture, or temporary submersion.
How to read an IP rating? (IP6X and IPX7)
An IP (Ingress Protection) rating has two digits, each signifying protection levels.
- The first digit, such as the “6” in IP67, means the device is fully dust-tight.
- The second digit, “7,” highlights water resistance, allowing the device to handle brief water exposure without damage.
Combined, these digits demonstrate robust performance across industries requiring reliable protection.
DIFFERENCES BETWEEN IP67 AND OTHER RATINGS (IP65, IP66, IP68…)
IP65 vs. IP67: dust and liquid protection
IP65 offers protection against low-pressure water jets and dust ingress, but it is not dust-tight. IP67 offers complete dust protection and can handle water immersion. This makes it better for places with a lot of dust and some water exposure.
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Comparison with IP66: differences in water resistance
While both IP66 and IP67 offer full dust protection, their water resistance varies. IP66-rated devices can resist powerful water jets, but they do not receive a rating for immersion. IP67 adds the capability to withstand submersion in water, expanding its use cases.
IP67 vs. IP68: applications for prolonged immersion
The main difference between IP67 and IP68 lies in the water resistance duration and depth. IP68 allows for prolonged immersion at greater depths, often specified by the manufacturer. This makes IP68 suitable for underwater applications, whereas IP67 is designed for temporary immersion.
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APPLICATIONS OF THE IP67 RATING IN HUMAN-MACHINE INTERFACES
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Reliable performance in harsh environments
IP67-rated HMIs are designed to operate in dusty, wet, and outdoor conditions, making them ideal for:
- Construction machinery: Excavators, loaders, and cranes exposed to dust and rain.
- Agricultural equipment: Tractors, irrigation systems, and sprayers operating in muddy conditions.
- Special vehicles: Fire trucks, military transport, and utility vehicles needing waterproof IP-rated controls.
- Public infrastructure: Roadside equipment, electric vehicle charging stations, and traffic management systems.
APEM’S IP67-COMPLIANT HMI SOLUTIONS
APEM provides a range of IP67-rated products, including robust switches and LED indicators. These components are specifically designed to meet the demands of industries requiring high protection levels, such as defense and outdoor equipment.
Sealed push buttons
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Large-diameter push buttons with a wide illuminated ring and robust IP67 sealing, perfect for applications requiring high visibility and durability.
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Latching-action push buttons with illuminated or non-illuminated options, compact design, and IP67 sealing for harsh environments.
IP67 Waterproof LED indicators
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This LED halo lights up and works with panel switches and emergency stop buttons. It offers single and RGB color options for different industrial uses.
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Q22
These are panel-mounted LED indicators. They have customizable bezel finishes and a long lifespan. They are great for process controls, civil engineering vehicles, and HVAC systems.
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Rear-mounted Ø8 mm indicators with two-color and three-color LEDs. They are perfect for control panels, cars, and boats.
Other IP67 sealed switches and joysticks:
WHY CHOOSE IP67-CERTIFIED DEVICES FOR YOUR PROJECTS?
Choosing IP67-rated devices ensures enhanced safety and longevity. The strong protection against dust and water lowers the chance of failure. This helps your equipment last longer and reduces maintenance costs.
Choosing IP67-certified HMIs guarantees optimal protection, extended lifespan, and operational reliability in harsh conditions. Whether for heavy-duty machinery, industrial automation, or mission-critical applications, investing in sealed, waterproof, and dustproof HMI solutions enhances efficiency and performance.
APEM’s range of IP67-rated products ensures top-tier reliability for industrial and outdoor control systems.
IP 67 rating chart
For more information on IP ratings, check the IP67 rating chart. This will help you choose the best IP67 waterproof components.