When selecting lighting, understanding IP and IK ratings crucial. These ratings indicate how well a fixture is protected against external influences such as dust, water, and mechanical impact. In this article, we explain what IP and IK ratings mean and how you can use this information to choose the right lighting solutions for your needs.
Of IP rating indicates the degree of protection that a fixture offers against the ingress of solid objects (such as dust) and liquids (such as water). The classification consists of two digits:
Example: A fixture with an IP69 rating, like all our floodlights, is completely dust-tight (6) and protected against high-pressure spray (9).Â
Of IK rating measures the resistance of a luminaire to mechanical impact. The scale runs from IK00 (no protection) to IK10 (highest protection):
Example: A light fixture with an IK10 rating, like our Orca Floodlight, can withstand an impact of over 20 joules! That's comparable to a 5kg object being thrown at the fixture.
The degree of safety of a luminaire is indicated by its IP rating. This is the based on 2 digits, defined as protection degree. The degree of touch and penetration is shown by the first number. The second number indicates whether the lamp is in can be used outdoors. The higher the number, the higher the quality and the more the product is suitable for harsh conditions. Especially for construction lamps this is a important indication. The IP designation is internationally standardized in the standard IEC 60529.
For the first digit of the IP value, it is advisable to require at least a value of IP6x, or full dust proof, for outdoor use. Luminaires with a lower dust density will quickly become contaminated and break down in environments where there is a lot of dust and/or wind. Note: regardless of the application, it is advisable to always strive for the highest possible value.
Large objects:
Provides protection from accidental, superficial hand contact.
Protected against penetration of solid objects larger than 50 mm.
Medium-sized objects:
Provides finger touch protection. Touch-safe only for measuring devices.
Protects against penetration of solid objects larger than 12.5 mm.
Small objects:
Provides protection against contact with an implement.
Touch-safe only for measuring devices. Protected against penetration of solid objects larger than 2.5 mm.
Pointed objects:
Provides protection against contact with an implement. Protects against contact with a wire.
Protects against penetration of solid objects larger than 1 mm.
Dust protection:
Is touch-safe because the housing is completely sealed.
Not a complete protection against dust but enough not to interfere with proper operation.
Dust-free:
The highest achievable class. This class is touch-safe because the housing is completely sealed.
It thus provides complete protection from dust.
For the second digit of the IP value, it is advisable to require at least a value of IPx6, or water resistant, for outdoor use. For environments where there is a risk of immersion and/or the lamp is heavily used, it is even advisable to choose a luminaire with a minimum values of IPx7 or even IPx8.
Drip seal type I:
No damage if subjected to falling drops.
Type II Drip Seal:
No damage if subject to drops falling on a 15 ° tilted device.
Splashproof:
No damage if sprayed (10 l/min) at an angle -60° to 60°.
Splashproof:
No damage if sprayed (10 l/min) under unchanged and any angle.
Sprayproof:
No damage when sprayed (12.5 l / min) at unchanged and any angle
Water resistant:
No water penetration if sprayed (100 l/min) under unchanged and any angle.
Immersion-proof:
No water penetration if submerged (30 min at 1 m).
Waterproof:
Remains usable under water under specified conditions.
Moistureproof:
Remains usable when humidity exceeds 90% or spraying under high pressure.
The IK classification classifies the level of protection that electrical appliances provide against mechanical influences from the outside. It is defined by standard IEC 62262. The degree of mechanical protection is identified by a code consisting of the letters IK followed by two numbers.
It is advisable to always aim for the highest achievable IK value, the higher the value the higher the resistance to impact. For a permanent lighting installation, such as for a terrain or sports field, it is advisable to use IK07 as a minimum requirement. For mounting of fixtures on moving installations with vibrations, shocks and / or in an environment with moving parts, an IK value of at least IK09 or even IK10 is recommended.
Impact energy: <0.15 joules
Withstands the impact of an object of 200 grams thrown at a distance of 7.5 cm.
Impact energy: <0.20 joules
Withstands the impact of an object of 200 grams thrown at a distance of 10 cm.
Impact energy: <0.35 joules
Withstands the impact of an object of 200 grams thrown at a distance of 17.5 cm.
Impact energy: <0.50 joules:
Withstands the impact of an object of 200 grams thrown at a distance of 25 cm.
Impact energy: <0.70 joules:
Withstands the impact of an object of 200 grams thrown at a distance of 35 cm.
Impact energy: <1.00 joules:
Withstands the impact of an object of 500 grams thrown at a distance of 20 cm.
Impact energy: <2.00 joules:
Withstands the impact of an object of 500 grams thrown at a distance of 40 cm.
Impact energy: <5.00 joules:
Withstands the impact of a 1.7 kg object thrown at a distance of 29.5 cm.
Impact energy: <10.00 joules:
Resists the impact of a 5 kg object thrown at a distance of 20 cm.
Impact energy: <20.00 joules:
Resists the impact of a 5 kg object thrown at a distance of 40 cm.
Higher IP ratings like IP67 or higher are required for protection against potentially worse weather conditions.Â
High IK ratings are important for providing the necessary resistance to bumps, impacts, and vibrations.
Wastewater treatment plants and paper mills require specific IP ratings to ensure safety.
Fixtures with a high IK rating prevent vandalism and damage.
LED lighting is indispensable in a variety of environments, and choosing the correct IP and IK rating is crucial for a safe and durable solution. In this article, we will briefly discuss how to select luminaires that are optimally suited to the conditions.
First, investigate whether there are large temperature differences, lots of dust, moisture or chemical fumes. For example, a greenhouse complex requires a different type of fixture than a dry storage area. Also pay attention to mechanical vibrations in factories or workshops. A thorough analysis prevents premature wear and unnecessary replacement costs.
The IP rating indicates the extent to which a fixture is resistant to moisture and dust. For dry indoor spaces, IP20 may suffice, but in humid or wet conditions, IP65 or higher is essential. An IP rating that is too low increases the risk of short circuits and defects, while the correct IP class extends the lifespan.
The IK rating shows how well a luminaire resists shock and impact. Warehouses with forklifts and sports halls require a high IK rating (such as IK10). In offices, a lower IK rating may suffice. A fixture that is too fragile can lead to damage and unsafe situations, so prefer to choose a sturdier alternative when in doubt.
In addition to IP and IK ratings, labels such as CE and RoHS are important for safety and environmental requirements. In hazardous areas, ATEX is mandatory, and UL or DLC approvals are relevant to North America. Always check the origin of certificates and invest in approved products to avoid problems.
An IP65 rating means the fixture is completely dust-tight (6) and protected against water jets from all directions (5).
A higher IK rating provides greater resistance to mechanical impact. It is better for environments where the risk of physical damage is higher, but may not be necessary in all situations.
It is not recommended that fixtures with low IP ratings be used outdoors, even when covered, because of moisture and temperature changes that can cause damage.
LED components are sensitive to moisture and impact. Proper IP and IK rating ensures protection of the electronics, which extends the life and performance of the lighting.
To ensure that your fixture will not easily suffer from outside influences, it is better to choose a fixture with at least IP67 en IK08 impactrating. The risk of replacement costs due to inadequate protection levels often makes the investment worthwhile twice over.
Multi-configuration of the Snapper Floodlights built to combine a lightweight solution for higher wattages. Often used on harbor cranes and large equipment where net efficiency is top priority or where a compact floodlight size is desired, such as on STS and RMG cranes.
These LED Floodlights are widely used on: harbor cranes, Ship to Shore cranes, RMG cranes and mobile light towers.
Robust floodlight built as an efficient all-rounder with a rock-solid housing. Labeled by many as indestructible. You choose these LED floodlights if you want the maximum luminous flux per watt in addition to a robust housing. These are very interesting for mining, cranes and heavy equipment.
These LED Floodlights are widely used for impact oriented purposes in mining, steel industry and bulk terminals.
Most robust and compact floodlight built for reliable illumination in the toughest conditions. 13 years a leader in the mining market. These LED floodlights are your choice when you want a robust housing that you won't need to replace. Interesting for mining, cranes, and heavy equipment.
These LED Floodlights are widely used for impact oriented purposes in mining, harbor cranes and bulk terminals.
Extremely compact LED Floodlights built to combine the right combination of ruggedness and light weight in a housing with no compromises. Commonly used on machinery and cranes where installation space is limited or where a compact size floodlight is desired, such as ships.
These LED Floodlights are widely used on: mobile tower cranes, fast ships, mobile light towers and for rescue services.
Discover the power of JEL Products and its industrial LED lighting solutions for greater savings in energy, costs, and CO2 emissions, while simultaneously improving your work safety. Contact us today by filling out the form below, so we can assist you in optimally illuminating your work environment.
Disclaimer: This article is intended to provide general information and is not intended as professional advice. For specific questions or customized advice, we recommend contacting our experts.
