Copper rate
26. September 2025
: upper CUN
891,28
EUR/100kg
KBE Elektrotechnik GmbH | Symeonstraße 8, 12279 Berlin | GERMANY
+49 (0)30 / 25 208-100
Protection classes play a crucial role in determining resistance to various environmental influences. They indicate how well a cable is protected from external factors such as dust, water or mechanical influences.
A basic understanding of protection classes will help you choose the right cable for every situation and thus ensure safety and durability.
The individual protection classes indicate how well a cable can withstand external influences. In the case of water resistance, the class is usually indicated with AD and a number. The "AD" is a specific designation within the DIN VDE 0100-510 standard.
It indicates the degree of resistance to the presence of water. This classification is therefore used to label cables that come into contact with water during operation. Class AD1, for example, is only suitable for places where the probability of water is negligible. AD 8, on the other hand, is suitable for permanent submersion.
In addition to the AD markings, there is also the so-called IP protection class (Ingress Protection), which consists of two numbers. The first number describes the protection against dust and solid particles, the second the protection against water. The higher the numbers, the better the cable is protected.
In the following table you will find an overview of the individual protection classes and their areas of application:
| protection class | description | application area |
|---|---|---|
| AD0 | No special requirements for waterproofing. | For dry areas without moisture. |
| AD1 | Negligible protection. | Indoors, low humidity. |
| AD2 | Protected against dripping water. | Slightly damp indoors. |
| AD3 | Protected against spray water. | Areas exposed to spray water. |
| AD4 | Protected against splash water. | Outdoor areas with light rain, e.g. outdoor lighting. |
| AD5 | Protected against jet water. | Areas with direct water spray, e.g. car washes. |
| AD6 | Protected against strong jet water and waves. | Outdoor areas, boats, strong splash water. |
| AD7 | Protected against temporary submersion. | Rain and flood areas. The electronic equipment may be temporarily submerged and up to 1 m below the water surface. |
| AD8 | Protected against permanent submersion. | Underwater installations, submersible pumps, deep water use. The electronic equipment is permanently under water and is under a pressure of more than 0.1 bar. |
See also our information sheet Water Resistant Cables.
The protection class AD8 stands for the highest level of water resistance and is specially designed for environments in which the cable may be exposed to constant contact with water.
The protection class AD8 or IPX8 distinguishes cables that function reliably even under extreme water conditions. They have been specially developed to withstand long-term use under water without losing performance or even being damaged.
Particularly resistant materials and seals are used in production to ensure that no moisture can penetrate inside. These strict criteria and tests make AD8 cables the ideal choice for areas where absolute waterproofness is essential.
AD8 cable installations offer decisive advantages when it comes to application in extremely humid or even completely submerged areas. They are robust, durable and waterproof, which prevents failures and short circuits.
Typical areas of application are underwater installations, wells, submersible pumps and areas where the cables are exposed to extremely humid conditions. Thanks to their resilience, these cables ensure safety and reliability even in demanding scenarios.
Both AD8 and IP68 offer excellent protection against water ingress, but they are anchored in different standards systems and differ in their application.
AD8 is part of the classification system and refers specifically to cables that can be used permanently underwater. This class guarantees that the cables will function safely in underwater environments, such as in wells or submersible pumps.
IP68, on the other hand, is part of the international IP protection class system. Equipment and cabling with an IP68 protection rating are completely dustproof (6) and can withstand permanent submersion in water (8).
While both protection ratings offer similar protection against water, IP68 is broader and applies to a wide range of equipment, not just cables. However, IP68 often specifies the maximum depth and duration of immersion, while AD 8 is explicitly designed for permanent underwater use.
In addition to AD8 and IP68, there are other protection classes that are important in different areas of application:
Each protection class has its specific advantages and uses, depending on the environmental conditions and the level of protection you require.
AD8 cables are indispensable in areas where continuous contact with water is a challenge.
These pipes can be used in many different ways, especially where water is a constant “danger”:
The full performance and longevity of the cables can only be guaranteed with correct installation and use. Please pay attention to the following points:
To determine if a cable is AD8 certified, you should look at the product documentation or the cable's rating plate. The AD8 protection rating should be clearly stated, either directly on the product itself or in the manufacturer's specifications. If this information is not readily available, you can contact the manufacturer or supplier to confirm certification.
Yes, AD8 cables are suitable for industrial use, especially in areas where permanent water contact is a problem. They are ideal for applications such as underwater installations, submersible pumps and in areas with extreme conditions. Their robustness and waterp resistance make them excellent industrial cables, ensuring reliability and safety.
