IP37 vs IP68
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP37 and IP68 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 6) and liquid protection (level 7 vs 8). IP37 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and temporary immersion (up to 1 m), while IP68 provides dust-tight and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
Specified under IEC 60529, IP37 denotes protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 mm and protection against the effects of temporary immersion in water. Ingress of water in quantities causing harmful effects shall not be possible.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 3 with second-digit (liquid) level 7.
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)
IP37
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP68
6 — Dust-Tight
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP37
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP68
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP37
No
IP68
Yes
Water-jet resistant
IP37
Yes
IP68
Yes
Submersible
IP37
Yes
IP68
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP37
Yes
IP68
Yes
The exact difference (IP37 vs IP68)
Solid protection
IP37
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP68
Level 6 — Dust-Tight
IP37 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IP68 provides "Dust-Tight" (level 6). IP68 is 3 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP37
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP68
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP37 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)), while IP68 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP68 provides 1 level more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP68 offers higher overall protection than IP37. Choose IP68 for harsher environments; IP37 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.