The terms IP67 and IP68 indicate the level of protection a load cell housing has against solid objects and water ingress. However, a high IP rating does not mean that the load cell is suitable for all chemicals, high-pressure washing, or unlimited underwater operation. The housing material, welded sealing, cable entry, and the manufacturer’s testing conditions should be evaluated together.
How is the IP code read?
The first digit after “IP” indicates protection against solid objects and dust, while the second digit indicates water protection. In both IP67 and IP68 classes, the first digit is 6; this shows the highest level of protection against dust. The conditions for protection against water are indicated by the second digit.
What does IP67 mean?
IP67 indicates protection against temporary immersion in water under specific test conditions. The test duration and depth are defined according to the standard. This class is suitable for many industrial applications involving outdoor exposure, splashing, and occasional wetting, but it is not alone sufficient evidence for high-pressure and high-temperature washing.
What does IP68 mean?
IP68 defines an enclosure tested under heavier conditions specified between the manufacturer and the user for continuous immersion. If there is no depth and duration information next to the “IP68” marking, the datasheet or manufacturer declaration should be consulted for the actual usage limit. Test conditions may not be the same for different IP68 products.
Which load cell should be selected in a washable environment?
Not only water but also detergent, temperature changes, and pressure affect food, chemical, and hygienic production. Stainless steel, hermetically welded structure, and appropriate cable glands should be preferred. If pressure washing is present, relevant test classes like IP69K can also be sought.
Why is the body material important?
Nickel-plated alloy steel can be economical and durable in a dry industrial environment. In continuous moisture, salt, fertilizer, chemical, or hygiene requirements, stainless steel may be more suitable. The term “stainless” alone is not sufficient; the quality used and chemical compatibility should be checked.
Cable entry may be the weakest point
Even if the load cell body has a high IP rating, a cut, splice, or upward-facing cable gland can lead to water ingress. A drip loop should be left on the cable, the junction box should be selected according to the same environmental conditions, and splices should be made with an appropriate sealing method.
Condensation and temperature cycling
Day-night temperature differences can cause pressure changes and condensation inside the enclosure. Even if no water is visible from the outside, the insulation resistance can decrease. Therefore, operating temperature, temperature compensation range, and hermetic design should be considered along with the IP rating.
What happens if the IP rating is misinterpreted?
- Corrosion and zero drift at the connection area
- Decrease in insulation resistance
- Unstable weighing after rain or washing
- Ground leakage on cable screen
- Permanent damage on the measurement bridge in the long term
Selection checklist
- Define exposure time and pressure to water.
- Determine chemical, salt, and temperature conditions.
- Check the body, bellows, welds, and cable material.
- Keep the junction box and connectors at the same level.
- Verify the actual test conditions in the datasheet.
Frequently asked questions
Is IP68 always better than IP67?
Higher protection is defined under immersion conditions; however, for practical use, chemical resistance, hygiene, and requirements such as high-pressure washing may be determining factors.
Can an IP67 load cell be used in the rain?
With proper installation and cable protection, it can be used in many outdoor applications. The manufacturer’s conditions and other components of the system must be verified.
Does a damaged cable affect the IP rating?
Yes. Damage to the cable or fitting can invalidate the enclosure’s water and dust protection.
Suitable for your environment load cell and weight sensor You can compare the product datasheets for selection or You can send your application conditions to the Kobastar technical team .