When selecting push button switches for your devices, you may come across terms like IP65, IP67, or IP68. These IP ratings are crucial for determining how well a switch can withstand environmental factors like dust, water, and other contaminants. But what exactly does IP mean, and why is it important for your applications?
IP stands for Ingress Protection (or sometimes International Protection). It is a standard defined by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC 60529) that classifies the degree of protection provided by an enclosure against solids and liquids.
An IP code typically consists of two digits:
The higher the number, the better the protection.
| Digit | Solids Protection (First Digit) | Liquids Protection (Second Digit) |
| 0 | No special protection | No special protection |
| 1 | >50mm (e.g., hands) | Dripping water (vertical drops) |
| 2 | >12.5mm (e.g., fingers) | Dripping water (15° tilt) |
| 3 | >2.5mm (e.g., tools, wires) | Spraying water (up to 60°) |
| 4 | >1mm (e.g., small wires, screws) | Splashing water (any direction) |
| 5 | Dust-protected (limited ingress) | Water jets (12.5L/min, 3 min) |
| 6 | Dust-tight (no ingress) | Powerful water jets (100L/min) |
| 7 | – | Temporary immersion (1m, 30 min) |
| 8 | – | Continuous immersion (>1m depth) |
| 9K | – | High-pressure, high-temp water jets |
Button switches are used in various environments—from indoor control panels to outdoor machinery, medical devices, and automotive applications. The right IP rating ensures:
✔ Durability – Resists dust, dirt, and moisture.
✔ Safety – Prevents short circuits from liquid exposure.
✔ Longevity – Extends product life in harsh conditions.
◆IP65 – Dust-tight & protected against water jets (suitable for outdoor use).
◆IP67 – Dust-tight & can withstand temporary immersion (ideal for washdown environments).
◆IP68 – Dust-tight & submersible for prolonged periods (used in underwater applications).
LA167-B2-BAF31 IP67 Push Button Switch
LA167-B2-BDF21 IP67 On-Off Selector Switch
When selecting a button switch, consider:
● Environment – Will it be exposed to rain, dust, or chemicals?
● Application – Is it for industrial, marine, or medical use?
● Cleaning Requirements – Does it need to withstand high-pressure washing?
At KNDELE, we manufacture push button switches with IP65 to IP68 ratings, ensuring reliability in the toughest conditions. Whether you need switches for outdoor machinery, food processing, or underwater equipment, we have the right solution.
ConclusionUnderstanding IP ratings helps you choose the best push button switch for your needs, ensuring performance and longevity. Always check the IP code to match your environmental requirements.
