When buying a waterproof weighing scale, you might notice numbers like IP65, IP67, or IP68 listed in the specifications. These numbers aren’t just marketing jargon—they define how well your scale can withstand water, dust, and harsh environments. Understanding IP ratings is crucial to selecting a scale that will perform reliably in your workplace.
What Is an IP Rating?
IP stands for Ingress Protection, a standardized measure that indicates how well a device resists the entry of solids (like dust) and liquids (like water). The rating is usually written as IPXX, where the first number refers to protection against solids, and the second number refers to protection against liquids.
Example: IP67
- 6 → Complete protection against dust
- 7 → Protection against temporary immersion in water
IP ratings are essential for waterproof scales because they define how much moisture and contamination the scale can safely withstand.
Understanding the Numbers
Here’s a breakdown of the most common IP ratings you’ll see on waterproof scales:
First Digit – Solids (0–6)
- 0 – No protection
- 1 – Protected against objects >50 mm
- 2 – Protected against objects >12 mm
- 3 – Protected against objects >2.5 mm
- 4 – Protected against objects >1 mm
- 5 – Dust-protected (limited ingress allowed)
- 6 – Dust-tight (complete protection)
Second Digit – Liquids (0–9)
- 0 – No protection
- 1 – Protected against dripping water
- 2 – Protected against dripping water when tilted up to 15°
- 3 – Protected against spraying water
- 4 – Protected against splashing water
- 5 – Protected against water jets
- 6 – Protected against strong water jets
- 7 – Protected against temporary immersion (up to 1 m)
- 8 – Protected against continuous immersion (beyond 1 m)
- 9K – Protected against high-pressure, high-temperature washdowns
What IP Ratings Mean for Your Scale
- IP65 – Suitable for environments with occasional water sprays or cleaning jets; dust-protected.
- IP67 – Can withstand temporary immersion in water; ideal for wet industrial areas.
- IP68 – Can survive continuous immersion in water; perfect for extremely wet or submerged environments.
- IP69K – Designed for harsh washdowns with high-pressure water and steam; ideal for food processing and pharmaceutical industries.
Choosing the correct IP rating ensures your scale lasts longer, maintains accuracy, and reduces maintenance costs.
Why IP Ratings Matter
- Reliability in Wet Conditions
Scales with higher IP ratings are less likely to fail due to water ingress, making them dependable in washdowns, rain, or high-humidity areas. - Durability and Longevity
Dust and water are major causes of scale damage. An appropriate IP rating protects sensitive components, extending the life of your equipment. - Compliance and Hygiene
In food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries, waterproof and washdown-safe scales help maintain hygiene standards and comply with sanitation regulations. - Cost Savings
By selecting a scale with the right IP rating for your environment, you reduce the risk of breakdowns, repairs, and downtime—saving money over the long term.
How to Choose the Right IP Rating
- Light moisture exposure – IP65 is often sufficient.
- Frequent splashing or temporary immersion – IP67 is recommended.
- Continuous wet operations or full immersion – IP68 or higher.
- Food processing or high-pressure washdown areas – IP69K is ideal.
When in doubt, it’s better to choose a higher IP rating than to risk damage in demanding environments.
Conclusion
IP ratings are not just numbers—they are a clear measure of how protected your scale is against dust, water, and harsh conditions. Understanding them ensures you select a waterproof scale that matches your environment, delivers accurate results, and lasts for years.