How Mobile Phones Stay Watertight: IP Ratings, Materials, and Virtual Testing

Creating water-resistant phones involves smart use of materials and thoughtful engineering. Rubber gaskets and silicone seals are used to create watertight barriers around ports and buttons. Waterproof adhesives seal seams and joints, while hydrophobic nano-coatings on internal components add an extra layer of water-repelling protection. Pressure equalization vents are another clever touch – they let air pass through to maintain functionality in different environments while blocking water ingress.

PreonLab shines in replicating IP rating test conditions. Its flexibility makes it easy to set up various water ingress scenarios. Take the IPX4 test, for example, which sprays water from all directions for at least 10 minutes, with flow rates ranging from 0.7 to 10 liters per minute, depending on the method. Below, check out a PreonLab simulation of an IPX4 test alongside real lab footage for comparison.

CFD simulations offer compelling visualizations, but their true value lies in the quantitative insights gained through advanced post-processing tools. By using virtual sensors, engineers can precisely analyze wetting and pressure distributions caused by water sprays on a mobile phone’s components.

The accompanying image shows the wetting time distribution across the phone’s exterior, highlighting areas prone to water accumulation.

Likewise, instantaneous pressure distribution maps help quantify pressure levels resulting from water sprays. These maps reveal high-pressure zones caused by water impact and identify potential weak points, such as along seals or housing edges.

These visualizations can offer valuable insights into water behavior when sprayed onto a mobile phone. They can enable in-depth analysis or simply facilitate a clearer understanding of flow behavior. The power of post-processing sensors lies in their ability to visualize complex data, making it easier to interpret and understand.

The IP rating system isn’t just for mobile phones—it’s critical for any electronic device with a voltage up to 72.5kV. This includes applications in transportation, healthcare, mining, manufacturing, and marine industries. While physical testing remains essential for meeting ingress standards, CFD simulations can provide quick and valuable insights before the first prototype is even built.

Which other applications and electronic devices could benefit from PreonLab’s analysis capabilities? How can PreonLab’s features accelerate your development process? Contact us to find out.