IP 68
The IP68 standard is an Ingress Protection classification that is set by the international standard IEC 60529. This standard describes how well an electronic device is protected against the ingress of solid particles (e.g. dust) and water. The classification consists of two numbers:
1. First number - Protection against particulate matter
- Number 6 means full protection against dust. A device with this protection is completely resistant to the ingress of dust and other small particles. In the case of metal detectors, this means that the device can be used in dusty environments without the risk of dust damaging internal components.
2. The second number - Water protection
- The number 8 indicates that the device is resistant to immersion in water to a depth of more than 1 meter. Usually a maximum depth is specified (often around 3 to 5 metres for metal detectors) and the length of time the device can be submerged without damage. IP68-rated devices are guaranteed to be waterproof even when permanently submerged, which is particularly important for underwater searches in rivers, lakes or beaches.
Relevance for metal detectors
Metal detectors with IP68 classification are fully dust-proof and can be submerged in water for long periods of time up to a specified depth (usually 3 to 5 meters). This means that these detectors can operate in very harsh conditions, such as underwater detection or in heavily dusty environments, without damaging their electronics.
The IP68 classification thus ensures that the detector will work reliably even in harsh conditions, a key feature for many metal detectorists who want to explore different types of terrain.