Standards for waterproof electrical connectors IP68
IP68-certified waterproof connectors are essential to ensure the protection of electrical and data connections in critical environments, where dust, water, and other external agents can compromise performance.
Compliance with international and European standards is crucial to guarantee the quality, reliability, and safety of these devices.
Below, we examine the main certification standards regulating IP68 waterproof connectors, with a focus on CEI EN 60529, EN 50393, and EN 60998.
CEI EN 60529: IP Protection Ratings
The CEI EN 60529 standard (equivalent to IEC 60529 internationally) is the primary reference for classifying the protection levels provided by electrical enclosures against the ingress of solids, dust, and liquids.
- What it defines:
- The IP (Ingress Protection) rating system, consisting of two digits:
- First digit: Protection level against solid objects and dust (0 to 6).
- Second digit: Protection level against liquids (0 to 9).
Why it matters for IP68 connectors:
- Confirms that the connector is completely dust-tight (6).
- Ensures resistance to prolonged water immersion beyond 1 meter depth (8) with duration and depth specifications defined by the manufacturer.
EN 50393 Standard
EN 50393: Testing for joints and connections on electrical cables
EN 50393 standard focuses on the requirements and test methods for joints and connections of insulated electrical cables, mainly used in low voltage networks (up to 1000V AC and 1500V DC).
What it defines:
- Test procedures to verify the reliability of joints and connections under real-world conditions.
- Watertightness and mechanical resistance tests for cables and connectors installed underground or exposed to humidity.
- Resistance to aging and degradation, simulating prolonged operating conditions in harsh environments.
Why it matters for IP68 connectors:
EN 50393 is particularly relevant for waterproof connectors used in underground or outdoor electrical networks. The tests required by this standard verify that IP68 connectors maintain their insulation and sealing performance over time, even in the presence of humidity and temperature variations.
The EN 60998 standard
EN 60998: Connectors for low-voltage electrical circuits
The EN 60998 standard regulates connectors for low-voltage electrical circuits (up to 1000V AC and 1500V DC), covering both domestic and industrial devices.
What it defines:
- Safety and performance requirements for connectors used in low voltage circuits (up to 1000V AC and 1500V DC).
- Specifications for connector materials, design, and construction to ensure reliability and durability.
- Tests for leakproofness, electrical insulation, mechanical resistance and ability to withstand adverse environmental conditions.
Why it matters for IP68 connectors:
IP68 connectors used in low voltage systems must comply with the safety requirements of EN 60998. This standard ensures that connectors are able to provide a stable and secure connection, even in environments with high exposure to dust and water.
Summary of Standards
| Standard | Scope | Relevance for IP68 Connectors |
|---|---|---|
| CEI EN 60529 | IP protection rating classification | Defines dust and water ingress requirements (IP68). |
| EN 50393 | Cable joint and connector testing | Verifies sealing and mechanical resistance under real conditions. |
| EN 60998 | Low-voltage circuit connectors | Ensures safety, reliability, and durability for waterproof connectors. |
Conclusion
IP68 connector certification is based on a set of standards covering safety, reliability, and performance:
- CEI EN 60529 The main reference for dust and water protection.
- EN 50393 Confirms long-term resistance to harsh environmental conditions.
- EN 60998 Ensures safety and reliability in low-voltage circuits.
