Which IP rating does my connector really need?
The IP rating decides whether a connector survives dust, jetting water or high-pressure wash-down. This guide explains the code under EN 60529, what the two digits mean and which minimum rating your environment actually demands.
View connectorsWhat do the two IP digits actually mean?
The protection class is defined in EN 60529 with the letters IP (International Protection) and two digits. The first digit rates protection against solid foreign objects and dust, the second against water. A connector rated IP67 is therefore dust-tight and survives temporary immersion.
The first digit runs from 0 (no protection) to 6 (fully dust-tight). The second runs from 0 to 9K, where 9K covers high-pressure and steam jetting. Where a requirement is not tested, the digit is replaced by an X, for example IPX7 for a purely water-rated connector.
Which rating does your environment demand?
The minimum rating follows from the real load at the installation point. Dry enclosures are fine with IP20, outdoor or damp areas typically need IP65 to IP67, and food or vehicle wash-down leaves no way around IP69K.
- IP65: dust-tight and protected against jetting water from any direction - the standard for outdoor sensors.
- IP67: dust-tight and sealed for 30 minutes of immersion up to 1 m - for temporarily flooded areas.
- IP68: continuous immersion under conditions defined by the manufacturer (depth, duration).
- IP69K: dust-tight and resistant to high-pressure steam jetting at 80 to 100 bar and up to 80 °C.
What else matters when you choose?
The rating alone is not enough. Seal material, locking, tightening torque and the correct cable diameter decide whether the class holds up in practice. Circular connectors such as M8 and M12 only reach IP67 with a cleanly tightened coupling nut.
- Always close unused ports with a protective cap, otherwise the rating drops to IP20.
- Inspect the seal and O-ring for damage and dirt before every mating.
- The cable diameter must match the sealing range of the cable gland.
- Follow the manufacturer's tightening torque - too loose leaks, too tight crushes the seal.
Matching circular connectors, cables and protective caps at a glance.
To the guideFrequently asked questions
Is IP68 always better than IP67?
For immersion, yes - IP68 covers continuous submersion under defined conditions. But neither IP67 nor IP68 says anything about jetting water; for that you also need IPx5, IPx6 or IP69K.
What does the K in IP69K mean?
The K comes from the original standard DIN 40050‑9 and marks the high-pressure and steam-jet test at 80 to 100 bar and around 80 °C. This class is now part of EN 60529 and standard in wash-down and food processing.
Is IP65 enough for outdoor use?
For rain and hose cleaning it usually is, because IP65 is dust-tight and protected against jetting water. Where temporary flooding or immersion can occur, step up to IP67.
Does the rating apply to the unmated connector?
No. The IP figure only applies when mated and locked or with a protective cap fitted. An open port does not reach the class.
Looking for the right connector?
We supply circular connectors and cables from IP20 to IP69K with matching seals and protective caps - matched to your environment.
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