IP67 and Operating Humidity - What's the matter?

If our cameras, e.g., Acuva GMSL2 IP67 or Visus GigE IP67, are IP67/IP6K7 certified, why is the operating humidity limited to 20-80% RH, non-condensing?

The IP67/IP6K7 rating and the specified operating humidity range describe two different environmental characteristics.

The IP rating defines the camera's protection against dust and water ingress under standardized test conditions. For example, IP67 includes protection against temporary immersion in water, while IP6K7 is the corresponding automotive-oriented classification according to ISO 20653.

The 20-80% relative humidity, non-condensing specification, on the other hand, defines the atmospheric conditions under which the camera is specified for reliable continuous operation.

In other words:

IP67/IP6K7 describes how well the enclosure keeps water out. The humidity specification describes the environmental conditions under which reliable operation is guaranteed.

Does IP67 mean that the camera can operate at 100% relative humidity?

No. An IP67/IP6K7 rating does not automatically mean that the camera is specified for continuous operation at 100% relative humidity.

At very high relative humidity, particularly when temperatures change, condensation can occur. Condensation means that water forms as liquid on surfaces, which can potentially affect electronic components and optical surfaces.

Therefore, our specified operating humidity range is 20-80% RH, non-condensing.

Does "non-condensing" mean that the camera cannot be used outdoors?

No.

IP67/IP6K7 cameras are specifically designed to provide a high level of protection against environmental influences such as dust, rain and water exposure.

However, the camera's specified operating conditions should still be respected. Outdoor environments can involve rapid temperature changes and high humidity, which may create condensation.

For applications involving continuous high humidity, condensation, large temperature fluctuations or other particularly demanding environmental conditions, the specific application should be evaluated separately.

Is condensation the same as water ingress?

No.

Water ingress means that liquid water enters the camera from the outside through openings, seals, connectors or other potential paths. This is what the IP rating primarily addresses.

Condensation occurs when water vapor in the surrounding air reaches its dew point and turns into liquid water on a surface.

Therefore, a camera can successfully pass an IP67/IP6K7 water-ingress test and still have an operating specification that excludes condensing conditions.

Can I use an IP67 camera in rain or when it gets wet?

Yes. Protection against water exposure is one of the purposes of the IP67/IP6K7 rating.

However, the camera should be installed and operated according to the complete environmental specifications in its datasheet. Particular attention should be paid to temperature changes and condensation, especially in outdoor or high-humidity applications.

Why don't manufacturers simply specify 100% RH for an IP67 camera?

Because 100% RH does not necessarily mean "harmless humidity."

At 100% RH, the air is saturated with water vapor. A relatively small temperature decrease can cause water to condense on surfaces.

For example, a camera operating in a warm, humid environment may subsequently be exposed to colder air. If the camera's surface temperature falls below the dew point, condensation can occur.

Consequently, "non-condensing" is an important part of the operating specification, even for a highly water-resistant enclosure.

Key takeaway

IP67/IP6K7 and 20-80% RH are not contradictory. IP protection describes the enclosure's resistance to external water and dust, while the humidity specification defines the atmospheric conditions for which reliable operation is guaranteed.

For applications with continuous high humidity, condensation, or significant temperature/humidity cycling, we recommend discussing the specific environmental conditions with our technical team to determine whether additional qualification is required.