IP68 is the highest ingress protection rating defined by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), assessing a device’s resistance to dust and water intrusion. The code indicates:
- First digit 6: Complete dustproof – no dust particles can enter the enclosure.
- Second digit 8: Long-term waterproof – the device remains functional after 30-minute submersion at 1m depth (some brands like Apple achieve 4m depth).
Key Features and Applications of IP68 Cable Glands
IP68 cable glands are engineered for extreme environments, offering:
- Superior Sealing: Dual-sealing mechanisms (e.g., silicone O-rings, PTFE gaskets) create a watertight barrier, ideal for marine, chemical, and pharmaceutical settings.
- Strain Relief: Constructed from corrosion-resistant metals (stainless steel, brass) or durable plastics (nylon), they withstand high tensile forces to prevent cable damage.
- Versatile Use Cases:
- Marine Applications: Marine cable glands resist saltwater corrosion, ensuring safe operation in ships and offshore platforms.
- Industrial Equipment: Suitable for machine tools, motors, and control panels, with IP68/IP69K ratings for high-pressure water jet resistance.
- EMC Protection: EMC cable glands shield against electromagnetic interference, critical for telecommunications and medical devices.
Technical Specifications of IP68 Cable Glands
- Material Options:
- Stainless Steel: Corrosion-resistant for chemical and food processing industries.
- Brass: High conductivity, used in explosion-proof zones (e.g., oil rigs).
- Nylon/Polycarbonate: Lightweight and UV-resistant for outdoor or solar applications.
- Thread Standards: Available in PG, NPT, and metric threads for seamless integration with industrial equipment.
- Certifications: Must pass IEC 60529 or GB/T 4208-2017 tests; some models offer IP68+IP69K for high-temperature/high-pressure cleaning.
Selecting the Right IP68 Cable Gland
- Cable Type: Choose between armored and unarmored cable glands based on your cable structure.
- Environmental Factors:
- Wet Environments: Opt for stainless steel + silicone-sealed glands.
- Chemical Exposure: Use FKM-sealed IP68 glands for resistance to harsh chemicals.
- Installation Best Practices:
- Follow manufacturer torque guidelines to avoid over-tightening.
- Verify IP rating labels to ensure compatibility with your equipment (e.g., IP68 vs IP67).
