What Does IP68 Really Mean? Bollard Waterproof & Dustproof Explained

What Is IP Rating?

IP (Ingress Protection) rating is an IEC standard measuring equipment enclosure protection against solids and water. Format: IPXX — first digit for dust (0-6), second digit for water (0-9).

What IP68 Means

First digit 6 means "dust-tight" — no dust ingress, the highest level. Second digit 8 means continuous immersion under specified conditions. For PROCOLUM bollards: internal circuits won't be damaged during floods, groundwater around cylinders won't affect operation, and column surfaces can be pressure-washed.

IP68 vs IP66/IP67

IP66 protects against powerful water jets but not immersion. IP67 allows 1m immersion for 30 minutes. IP68 extends beyond both. PROCOLUM control systems use IP66 since cabinets are wall-mounted indoors — sufficient for outdoor spray and dust environments.

Why Outdoor Bollards Need IP68

Underground cylinders face prolonged water exposure during rainy seasons. Inadequate protection causes motor shorts, oil emulsification, and board corrosion. PROCOLUM uses multiple seals — flange rings, waterproof cable connectors, and drainage systems — ensuring reliable operation in extreme humidity.