IPX7 and IPX8 Immersion Testing

IPX7 and IPX8 Immersion Testing

Ingress protection tests include immersing the equipment under test (EUT), in water. These tests are included in the Ingress Protection Code or IP Code ratings as IPX7 and IPX8.

Below is a brief description of the two types of immersion tests included in ingress protection testing per the IEC 60529 test standard.

IPX7 Testing:

IP X7 immersion testing up to one meter of water for 30 minutes

The IPX7 waterproofness test requirement is that the ingress of water is not considered to be in harmful quantities.

This determination is made when the enclosure is immersed in water under defined conditions of pressure and time.

Included in the test parameters also include water at a certain temperature. It could also be liquid of a certain salinity or the use of other chemicals.

 IPX7 rated products are able to meet the requirements of this water ingress test.

IPX8 Testing:

IP X8 immersion testing is defined as immersion in over one meter of water.

The equipment under test is subjected to continuous immersion in water under specific conditions. These specific conditions should be specified by the manufacturer, as they may include specific time and temperature. As with IPX7 ingress testing, the liquid can

As with IPX7 ingress testing, the liquid can contain chemicals. It can also be conditioned to various temperatures.

The test duration should be determined by client or in a formalized test plan.

IPX8 rated products are able to meet the requirements of this liquid enclosure test.

IPX7 and IPX8 Immersion Testing Laboratory Testing Procedures

IPX7 Immersion Testing Procedure:

Test Setup: Equipment to be test, ( EUT ) shall be powered off and all ports and openings are securely closed with their respective covers, gaskets, or seals, or simulate those openings that normally have cables or other protrusion.

Testing Tank: Ensure that testing tank is large enough to fully immerse the device without touching the bottom of the tank.

Immersion: Equipment under test (EUT ) shall remain submerged at a depth of 1 meter (3.3 feet) for 30 minutes. A determination should be made to determine if   the device needs to be oriented in various positions during the test (e.g., different angles).

Remove and Inspection: After 30 minutes, remove the EUT from tank and thoroughly inspect it for any signs of water ingress including the internal components and external surfaces for water damage or moisture.

IPX8 Immersion Testing Procedure:

Test Setup: Equipment to be test, ( EUT ) shall be powered off and all ports and openings are securely closed with their respective covers, gaskets, or seals, or simulate those openings that normally have cables or other protrusion.

Testing Tank:  This section requires a larger tank volume, and sized deep enough to fully immerse the device well beyond 1 meter depth per IPX8 rating standard.

Immersion: Equipment under test (EUT ) shall remain submerged at the specified depth determined and duration by the test standard or test plan. A determination should be made to determine if   the device needs to be oriented in various positions during the test

Remove and Inspection: After the designated immersion period, remove the EUT from the water and conduct a thorough inspection for any signs of water ingress. Check both internal components and external surfaces for water intrusion or moisture.