IP06 vs IP68
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP06 and IP68 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 6) and liquid protection (level 6 vs 8). IP06 is rated for no protection and powerful water jets (12.5 mm nozzle), while IP68 provides dust-tight and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
With IP06, an enclosure receives no protection against solid objects and protection against powerful water jets. Water projected in powerful jets by a 12.5 mm nozzle against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 0 with second-digit (liquid) level 6.
IP68 is dust-tight and protects against continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer (typically deeper than 1 meter for prolonged periods). The standard for submersible and marine equipment.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP06
0 — No Protection
IP68
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP06
6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP68
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP06
No
IP68
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP06
Yes
IP68
Yes
Submersible
IP06
No
IP68
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP06
Yes
IP68
Yes
The exact difference (IP06 vs IP68)
Solid protection
IP06
Level 0 — No Protection
IP68
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP06 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP68 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP68 is 6 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP06
Level 6 — Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)
IP68
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP06 handles 100 kPa (Powerful Water Jets (12.5 mm nozzle)), while IP68 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP68 provides 2 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP68 offers higher overall protection than IP06. Choose IP68 for harsher environments; IP06 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.