IPX5 Waterproof Rating Test: Standards and Guide

What Is the IPX5 Test?

The IPX5 ingress protection (IP) code test, also known as the water jet test, is designed to assess the waterproof and moisture-resistance performance of a device enclosure from various angles. This test is conducted in accordance with the IEC 60529 standard.

IP Rating Explanation:

1.        The first digit indicates protection against solid objects (an "X" in IPX5 means it was not tested or is not specified).

2.        The second digit indicates protection against water ingress (a "5" means protection against powerful water jets).

How Is the IPX5 Test Conducted?

1.        Nozzle diameter:6.3 mm

2.        Water flow rate:12.5 liters per minute

3.        Water pressure:30 kPa

4.        Test duration:At least 1 minute per square meter of enclosure surface, and no less than 3 minutes total

5.        Spray direction:From any angle

After testing, the device is dried and opened to inspect for water ingress or functional impairment.

Acceptance Criteria

1.        Water sprayed from any direction must not cause malfunction

2.        If water does enter, it must not affect safety or intended function

3.        Water must not collect on insulation components, to avoid tracking or short circuits

Purpose of the IPX5 Test

Verify resistance to high-pressure water exposure

IPX5 devices must withstand greater water volume and pressure than IPX1–IPX4 devices

Ensure durability and functionality under real-world water exposure conditions

Benefits of IPX5 Testing for Manufacturers

1.        Identify design weaknesses early in a lab environment

2.        Reduce product returns, warranty claims, and brand damage

3.        Lower long-term service costs and post-sale issues

Benefits of IPX5 Testing for Consumers

1.        Assures reliable performance in strong water spray environments

2.        Devices with an IPX5 rating are considered water-resistant

3.        Note: IPX5 does not meanthe device can be fully submerged in water

Common Causes of IPX5 Test Failure

1.        Design weak pointsin the enclosure, such as doors, seams, vents, and ports

2.        Some devices can resist short-term exposure but fail under sustained high-pressure spray

3.        Inadequate waterproof gaskets or sealing materials

Which Devices Should Undergo IPX5 Testing?

1.        Smartphones, tablets, earbuds, and outdoor electronics

2.        Industrial equipment and smart wearables

3.        Outdoor speakers and lighting systems

4.        Medical devices (e.g., hospital beds, IV pumps, monitors) — even occasional exposure warrants testing

Tip:Any device potentially exposed to high-pressure water jets should consider IPX5 testing.

How to Get IPX5 Waterproof Certification?

JJR Lab Chinais a certified and professional ingress protection testing laboratory. We offer a full range of IP tests, including IPX5:

1.        Fast quotations and scheduling

2.        Testing for devices of all sizes

3.        Expert team support before, during, and after testing