Sep 25, 2026
IPX7 Waterproof Test: Requirements, Test Method and Equipment
The IPX7 waterproof test verifies whether an enclosure can withstand temporary immersion in water without harmful water ingress.
For manufacturers of electrical and electronic products, understanding the IPX7 test requirements is important before selecting test equipment. The test is not simply a matter of putting a product into a water tank. Immersion depth, test duration, specimen height, water-level control and sample positioning all need to be considered.
This guide explains the IPX7 waterproof test, including its test conditions, procedure, equipment requirements and key factors to consider when selecting an immersion test system.
What Is an IPX7 Waterproof Test?
IPX7 is a water-ingress protection level in the IP Code defined by IEC 60529.
The IPX7 test uses temporary immersion rather than a water jet. This is different from IPX5 and IPX6, which evaluate resistance to water projected against the enclosure.
For a broader comparison of these protection levels, see our guide to IPX5 vs IPX6 vs IPX7 vs IPX8 water testing.
The purpose of an IPX7 test is to determine whether water can enter the enclosure in quantities that cause harmful effects or impair the required operation of the product under the specified test conditions.
Typical products requiring IPX7 testing include:
- Electronic components
- Outdoor lighting
- Electrical enclosures
- Control boxes
- Automotive components
- Motorcycle parts
- Consumer electronics
- Sensors and connectors
IPX7 Test Requirements
The main IPX7 test requirements include immersion depth, test duration and specimen positioning.
Test item | IPX7 requirement |
|---|---|
Test method | Temporary immersion |
Test duration | 30 minutes |
Standard reference | IEC 60529 |
Sample height < 850 mm | Bottom of enclosure positioned 1000 mm below water surface |
Sample height ≥ 850 mm | Top of enclosure positioned at least 150 mm below water surface |
Test medium | Water |
Evaluation | Check for harmful water ingress |
The commonly referenced IPX7 condition is 30 minutes of immersion.
However, the immersion position depends on the height of the specimen. Therefore, describing IPX7 simply as "1 meter of water for 30 minutes" is incomplete when the specimen is 850 mm or higher.
For the broader IP Code structure and related testing methods, see the IEC 60529 IP ratings and testing equipment guide.
IPX7 Immersion Depth and Sample Positioning
Samples With a Height Below 850 mm
When the enclosure height is below 850 mm, the bottom of the enclosure is positioned 1000 mm below the water surface.
This means the required tank height must provide sufficient usable water depth while also allowing the specimen to be positioned correctly.
Samples With a Height of 850 mm or More
When the specimen height is 850 mm or more, the highest point of the enclosure should be at least 150 mm below the water surface.
This condition is particularly important when testing large electrical enclosures, automotive components or other tall products.
Therefore, before purchasing an IPX7 immersion tank, always provide the equipment supplier with the maximum specimen height.
How Long Is an IPX7 Test?
The standard IPX7 test duration is 30 minutes.
During the test, the specimen needs to remain under the required immersion condition for the specified period.
For laboratories performing repeated IPX7 testing, a stable water-level system and convenient sample handling can make the test process more repeatable.
TOP TEST's IPX7 water immersion test equipment includes different tank configurations, including transparent glass, acrylic and stainless-steel models, with water depths up to 1200 mm on the listed standard models.
IPX7 Test Procedure Step by Step
Step 1: Prepare the Specimen
Prepare the product according to the applicable product specification and test requirements.
The specimen should be complete and assembled in the configuration required for the test.
Step 2: Check the Immersion Tank
Before testing, confirm:
- Water level
- Tank condition
- Sample fixture
- Drainage system
- Lifting mechanism
- Test timer
The water level should be clearly measurable.
TOP TEST's IPX7 equipment uses a stainless-steel ruler with 1 mm graduations for water-level measurement on the relevant models.
Step 3: Position the Specimen
Place the specimen in the required position according to its height.
For lightweight products, manual handling may be sufficient.
For larger or heavier samples, a sample cage and electric hoist can make positioning easier.
Step 4: Immerse the Specimen
Lower the product into the water until the required immersion condition is reached.
The specimen should remain in the correct position throughout the test.
Step 5: Maintain the Test for 30 Minutes
Maintain the required immersion condition for 30 minutes.
The water level should remain stable during testing.
Step 6: Remove and Inspect the Specimen
After the test period, remove the specimen and inspect it for water ingress.
The evaluation should determine whether water has entered the enclosure in quantities that cause harmful effects or impair the product's required performance.
What Equipment Is Required for IPX7 Testing?
A typical IPX7 testing system may include:
- Immersion tank
- Water-level measurement system
- Sample support or basket
- Sample lifting mechanism
- Water inlet
- Drainage system
- Timer or control system
- Sample fixation system
The equipment configuration depends mainly on the specimen size, weight and testing frequency.
For example, lightweight electronic products may only require a manual immersion system, while large automotive or electrical components may benefit from electric lifting.
TOP TEST provides IPX7 waterproof test equipment with different tank dimensions and configurations for electrical, electronic, lighting and automotive applications.
How to Choose an IPX7 Immersion Test Chamber
The correct chamber should be selected according to the product rather than simply choosing the largest available tank.
1. Check the Maximum Specimen Height
The specimen height determines the required immersion configuration.
If the product is less than 850 mm high, a tank providing approximately 1–1.2 m of usable water depth may be suitable for the standard configuration.
For taller products, the tank dimensions may need to be customized.
2. Check the Maximum Specimen Width and Length
The tank must provide enough horizontal space for the product to be positioned correctly.
The specimen should not interfere with the tank walls or fixtures during testing.
3. Consider Product Weight
A lightweight product can usually be handled manually.
Heavy products may require an electric hoist and sample cage.
TOP TEST's IPX7 equipment range includes a stainless-steel immersion chamber with an electric lifting configuration for heavier samples.
4. Check Water-Level Measurement
Accurate water-level measurement is important because the immersion condition must be controlled.
A clearly visible ruler or scale makes it easier for operators to set the required water level.
5. Consider Tank Material
Common configurations include:
- Tempered glass
- Acrylic
- Stainless steel
- Stainless steel with transparent observation sections
Transparent tanks make it easier to observe the specimen during testing.
Stainless steel provides a more robust structure for larger or frequently used equipment.
IPX7 Applications
IPX7 testing is commonly used for:
- Electronic products
- Outdoor lighting
- Electrical cabinets
- Control boxes
- Automotive parts
- Motorcycle components
- Electronic components
- Mobile device housings
- Sensors
- Connectors
For products requiring water-jet testing rather than immersion, TOP TEST also provides IPX5/IPX6 water jet test equipment.
The appropriate test method should always be determined by the applicable product standard and actual service environment.
IPX7 vs IPX8
IPX7 and IPX8 are both immersion tests, but their conditions are different.
Item | IPX7 | IPX8 |
|---|---|---|
Test type | Temporary immersion | Continuous immersion |
Duration | 30 minutes | Conditions specified for the application |
Depth | Standardized IPX7 condition | Agreed/customized condition |
Equipment | Immersion tank | May require pressure-capable equipment |
Typical use | Temporary immersion | More severe or continuous immersion |
IPX8 does not simply mean "IPX7 for longer."
The applicable IPX8 test conditions are agreed according to the relevant product requirements and must be more severe than the IPX7 condition.
If your application requires both ratings, a dedicated IPX7/IPX8 waterproof rating tester may be more appropriate than a basic IPX7 tank.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is an IPX7 test?
The IPX7 test duration is 30 minutes.
How deep is an IPX7 test?
For specimens below 850 mm in height, the bottom of the enclosure is positioned 1000 mm below the water surface. For specimens 850 mm or higher, the top of the enclosure is positioned at least 150 mm below the water surface.
What equipment is used for an IPX7 test?
An IPX7 test typically uses an immersion tank with water-level measurement, sample support and a suitable lifting or positioning system.
Can IPX7 equipment be customized?
Yes. Tank dimensions, water depth, lifting systems and sample fixtures can be customized according to the specimen and testing requirements.
Is IPX7 the same as IPX8?
No. IPX7 and IPX8 have different immersion conditions and equipment requirements.
Can IPX6 replace IPX7 testing?
No. IPX6 is a water-jet test, while IPX7 is an immersion test. If both ratings are required by the applicable standard, they must be tested separately.
Conclusion
A reliable IPX7 waterproof test requires more than a water tank. The specimen height, immersion position, 30-minute test duration, water level and sample handling method all need to be considered.
When selecting equipment, start with the maximum specimen dimensions and weight. Then determine the required tank depth, material, lifting method and water-level measurement system.
For standard and customized IPX7 immersion testing requirements, TOP TEST provides different configurations of immersion test equipment for electronics, lighting, electrical equipment and automotive components.
