IP68 means the connector is fully dust-tight and withstands continuous immersion under manufacturer-defined conditions (immersion depth and duration).
They are designed for continuous immersion, but always in relation to defined test conditions such as depth and duration. The specific limits must be checked per application.
IP67 protects against temporary immersion (up to 1 m, 30 minutes), IP68 against continuous immersion under manufacturer-defined conditions that exceed IP67.
In submerged sensor systems, water treatment and permanently damp environments where lower protection ratings do not provide sufficient reliability.
Yes, provided the application stays within the manufacturer-specified immersion depth and duration. For high-pressure or hot-water cleaning, IP69K is additionally required.