The Ultimate Guide To IP Rating

What is an IP rating?

The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) 60529 is an international standard that defines IP (Ingress Protection) which is the level of protection provided against the ingress of solid objects, dust, and moisture. The IP rating system uses two digits to indicate the level of protection offered.

The first digit indicates the level of protection against solid objects, such as tools, fingers, or dust. The scale ranges from 0 (no protection) to 6 (complete protection against dust).

The second digit indicates the level of protection against moisture, including water splashes, drips, and submersion. The scale ranges from 0 (no protection) to 8 (continuous submersion under defined conditions).

For example, an IP65 rating indicates that the device is completely protected against dust and is protected against low-pressure water jets from any direction. An IP68 rating indicates that the device is completely protected against dust and is designed for long periods of immersion under water.

IP ratings are an important factor to consider when choosing lights that will be used in harsh or outdoor environments. The higher the IP rating, the better the device is protected against the ingress of solid objects, dust, and moisture.

Why have an IP rating system?

The IP (Ingress Protection) rating system provides a standardized method for evaluating the level of protection provided by electrical enclosures against the ingress of solid objects and liquids. This system is important for several reasons:

1. Safety: The IP rating system helps to ensure the safety of electrical equipment by evaluating the level of protection against potential hazards, such as electric shock, fire, and corrosion.
2. Durability: By evaluating the level of protection against moisture and dust, the IP rating system helps to ensure the long-term durability of electrical equipment and its ability to perform effectively in different environments.
3. Comparison and Selection: The IP rating system provides a standardized and objective method for evaluating the protection provided by different electrical enclosures, making it easier to compare and select products for different applications.
4. Compliance: The IP rating system is an internationally recognized standard, and many countries have adopted the IP rating system as a requirement for the certification and approval of electrical equipment.

How does IP rating work?

The IP (Ingress Protection) rating system works by assigning a numerical value to indicate the level of protection provided against the ingress of solid objects, dust, and moisture. The IP rating is a two-digit code, with the first digit representing the protection against solid objects, and the second digit representing the protection against moisture.

To determine the IP rating, the device undergoes a series of tests in a controlled environment. These tests assess the device's ability to prevent the ingress of solid objects, dust, and moisture under specified conditions. The test results are then used to determine the device's IP rating.

For example, to test the device's protection against solid objects, it is subjected to various levels of mechanical impact, such as a pointed object or a blunt object. To test the device's protection against dust, it is subjected to a dust chamber, where it is sealed and filled with fine dust particles. To test the device's protection against moisture, it is subjected to a spray or immersion test, where it is exposed to water from various angles and at different levels of pressure.

Based on the results of these tests, the device is assigned an IP rating, with the first digit indicating the level of protection against solid objects and the second digit indicating the level of protection against moisture. The higher the IP rating, the better the device is protected against the ingress of solid objects, dust, and moisture.

It's important to note that the IP rating is a standard and not a guarantee. The actual level of protection may vary depending on the specific conditions and environment in which the device is used. However, the IP rating provides a useful way to compare the relative protection levels of different devices.

IP Rating Table

*IPX4 fittings are weather-resistant but may not be suitable for fully exposed environments. You should confirm suitability before purchase.

**IP rating 9K is not a recognized classification in the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) 60529 standard for ingress protection (IP) ratings. The scale ranges from 0 (no protection) to 6 or 8 (maximum protection), depending on the type of protection being evaluated. It is possible that some manufacturers may use the IP 9K rating as a marketing term to indicate a high level of protection, but it is not an officially recognized standard. If you are evaluating the protection and durability of electrical equipment, it is important to refer to the official IP rating code defined in the IEC 60529 standard to ensure accurate and consistent comparisons.

Why is IP rating important for lights?

IP rating, or Ingress Protection rating, is a measure of a light's protection against solid objects (such as dust) and moisture. This is important for lights as it determines the suitability of the light for use in different environments, including indoor, outdoor, and damp or wet locations. A higher IP rating indicates better protection and a longer lifespan for the light.

What is the best IP rating for outdoor lights?

For outdoor lights, it's recommended to use lights with an IP rating of at least IP65. This rating means that the light is protected against dust and low-pressure water jets from any direction, making it suitable for outdoor use in most climates and conditions. Higher IP ratings, such as IP66, IP67 or IP68, provide even better protection against water and dust, and can be used in more demanding outdoor environments.

Is IP rating related to resistance from corrosion?

IP rating does not directly measure resistance to corrosion, but it can be an indirect indicator of the light's overall durability and protection against the elements. For example, a light with a high IP rating, such as IP67 or IP68, provides good protection against moisture and dust, which can reduce the risk of corrosion. However, the actual resistance to corrosion will also depend on the materials and construction of the light, as well as the specific environment in which it's used.

How does IP rating relate to a light's material and its durability?

The IP rating of a light is primarily determined by the design of its enclosure and the materials used in its construction. A light with a higher IP rating typically has a more robust and sealed enclosure, made from materials that are resistant to moisture and dust. For example, a light with an IP65 rating might have a sealed plastic or metal housing, while a light with an IP67 or IP68 rating might have a waterproof seal and a metal housing that's resistant to corrosion. The choice of materials and the level of sealing can also impact the durability and lifespan of the light. In general, lights with higher IP ratings are more durable and better suited for use in harsh or demanding environments, where they are exposed to moisture, dust, and other elements.

What is the best IP rating for lights in bathrooms?

For lights in bathrooms, it's recommended to use lights with an IP rating of at least IP44. This rating means that the light is protected against splashing water from any direction, making it suitable for use in damp or wet environments, such as bathrooms. For areas directly exposed to water, such as showers, it's recommended to use lights with a higher IP rating, such as IP65 or higher, to provide better protection against moisture. The exact IP rating required will depend on the specific bathroom environment and the level of protection needed.

What IP rating is needed for different bathroom lighting zones in Australia?

In Australia, the lighting zones in a bathroom determine the required IP rating for lights used in that area. The Australian Standards specify the following zones:

• Zone 0: Inside a bath or shower cubicle. Lights in this zone must have an IP rating of at least IP67.
• Zone 1: The area above the bath or shower to a height of 2.25 meters from the floor. Lights in this zone must have an IP rating of at least IP44.
• Zone 2: The area extending 0.6 meters outside the perimeter of the bath or shower and up to a height of 2.25 meters from the floor. Lights in this zone must have an IP rating of at least IP44.
• Zone 3: The rest of the bathroom. Lights in this zone must have an IP rating of at least IP20.

It's important to choose lights with the appropriate IP rating for the specific lighting zone to ensure safety and compliance with local regulations.

What IP rating is needed for kitchen lights in Australia?

In Australia, there is no specific IP rating requirement for kitchen lights. However, it's recommended to use lights with an IP rating of at least IP20 in kitchens. This rating provides basic protection against solid objects larger than 50mm, such as fingers, but does not provide any protection against moisture.

For areas in the kitchen that may be exposed to moisture, such as near the sink or stove, it's recommended to use lights with a higher IP rating, such as IP44 or higher. This will provide increased protection against splashing water and ensure that the lights have a longer lifespan in damp or wet environments.

It's important to choose lights with the appropriate IP rating for the specific kitchen environment to ensure safety and durability.

What is the actual wording of the international IP rating?

The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) 60529 standard defines the following levels of protection:

First digit of the IP rating code -

0: No protection 

1: Protection against solid objects larger than 50mm, such as a hand 

2: Protection against solid objects larger than 12mm, such as fingers 

3: Protection against solid objects larger than 2.5mm, such as tools and wires 

4: Protection against solid objects larger than 1mm, such as small wires 

5: Dust protected, limited ingress of dust is allowed, but it must not interfere with the normal operation of the equipment 

6: Dust tight, no ingress of dust is allowed

Second digit of the IP rating code -

0: No protection 

1: Protection against vertically dripping water 

2: Protection against dripping water when tilted up to 15° 

3: Protection against spraying water 

4: Protection against splashing water 

5: Protection against water jets 

6: Protection against heavy seas or powerful water jets 

7: Protection against the effects of immersion between 15cm and 1m 

8: Protection against long periods of immersion under pressure

Does IP rating measure weatherproofing?

The IP (Ingress Protection) rating system does measure the level of protection against weather elements to some extent, but it is not specifically designed to evaluate the weatherproofing of electrical equipment. The IP rating system evaluates the level of protection against the ingress of solid objects and liquids, and some of these elements may include weather elements such as rain, snow, or dust.

For example, an IP65 rating indicates a high level of protection against low-pressure water jets from any direction, making it suitable for outdoor use in rainy conditions. An IP68 rating indicates complete protection against dust and continuous immersion in water, making it suitable for use in environments where the equipment will be continuously exposed to water.

However, other factors such as temperature, wind, and UV radiation can also affect the performance and durability of electrical equipment in outdoor environments. Some manufacturers may provide additional information and certifications related to the weatherproofing of their products, but these may not always be captured by the IP rating system.

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