How to choose the correct waterproof level for touch screens?

The waterproof performance of PCAP touch screens is very important for outdoor devices. Every day, we receive similar inquiries from customers: "What level should be selected for outdoor touch screens that require rain protection?" and "How much is IP68 more expensive than IP67? As a touchscreen manufacturer, we understand the balance between customers' waterproof needs and cost control. Today, in the most straightforward language, we will help you clarify the intricacies behind these numbers.

• 1、 What exactly do those numbers represent?

Taking the common IP67 as an example:
The first number "6": the highest level of dust prevention, which means completely preventing dust from entering
The second number "7": can be soaked in water at a depth of 1 meter for 30 minutes
The "8" of IP68 represents continuous immersion, and the specific depth and time are agreed upon by the manufacturer (our standard is 2 meters/72 hours)

• 2、 Practical application scenarios of PCAP touch screens with different waterproof levels

IP54 (splash proof): suitable for indoor kitchen equipment and gym equipment, with a cost only 15% higher than ordinary screens
IP65 (water spray prevention): meet the needs of outdoor vending machines and bus stop signs, and can resist rainstorm washing
IP67： The cost-effective choice for agricultural machinery and outdoor navigation equipment, not afraid of accidental falling into the water
IP68： The standard configuration for underwater robots and ocean monitoring equipment is recommended to be equipped with anti seawater corrosion coatings

• 3、 Three real-life issues you may want to know about

Why is IP68 40% more expensive than IP67
The main differences are: a 50% increase in the amount of military grade sealant used, the need for helium leak detection, and the requirement for pressure cycling testing. If your device cannot dive, IP67 is more economical.
Will waterproof PCAP touch screens affect touch sensitivity
We have optimized the thickness of the sealing material (controlled within 0.3mm) and adopted a high dielectric constant coating to maintain the touch accuracy of the waterproof screen at ± 1mm, which is no different from ordinary touch screens.
Will the waterproof performance of PCAP touch screens deteriorate over time
meeting. But three measures are taken to ensure longevity:
(1) Use anti-aging silica gel (5-year decay rate<5%)
(2) Design a dual sealing structure at the interface
(3) Provide a 3-year waterproof warranty (usually 1 year in the industry)

• 4、 Unexpected data

Last year, we found through our analysis of repair cases that:
65% of waterproof failures occur at the interface (now changed to modular waterproof plugs)
23% is due to the misalignment of the sealing ring during installation (colored positioning labels are now provided)
Only 12% is a real material issue (reduced to 5% by switching to imported glue)
 

The 7-inch PCAP touch screens we recently designed for Norwegian fishing boats is a typical case: the customer originally requested IP68, but after on-site investigation, it was found that the highest splash on the deck was only 0.5 meters. Eventually, we adopted an IP66+anti salt spray coating solution, saving 27% of the cost. However, the highest waterproof rating does not necessarily mean the most suitable solution. Our Xinlilai Optoelectronics technology team is always ready to provide you with the best waterproof solution.