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What is IP value?

In the world of lighting, numerous technical specifications play a role in assessing the performance and safety of luminaires. One such important specification is the IP rating, which indicates how well a fixture is protected against penetration of dust and moisture. In this article, we take a closer look at what the IP rating means and why it is a crucial factor in selecting the right fixtures.

IP value explained

The abbreviation “IP” stands for “International Protection” (Rating) or “Ingress Protection,” and it is followed by two digits. This numerical combination provides insight into a fixture’s degree of protection against external elements such as dust and moisture. The first digit represents protection against solid objects and dust, while the second digit indicates water resistance.

Dust protection

The first digit of the IP rating gives more information about the degree of protection against dust and solid objects. This can be a number from 0 to 6, with each level representing a different degree of protection:

  • IP0X: No protection against dust.
  • IP1X: Protected against solid large objects larger than 50 mm.
  • IP2X: Protected against solid medium-sized objects larger than 12.5 mm.
  • IP3X: Protected against solid small objects larger than 2.5 mm.
  • IP4X: Protected against solid pointed objects larger than 1 mm.
  • IP5X: Dustproof; limited amount of dust can enter, but does not affect normal operation.
  • IP6X: Fully dustproof; no dust can penetrate.

Protection against moisture

The second digit of the IP rating indicates how well the fixture resists moisture and water. This can be a number from 0 to 9, with each level indicating a different degree of water resistance:

  • IPX0: No protection against water.
  • IPX1: Protected against dripping water.
  • IPX2: Protected against dripping water when the fixture is tilted up to 15 degrees.
  • IPX3: Protected against spraying water up to an angle of 60 degrees.
  • IPX4: Protected against splashing water from all directions.
  • IPX5: Protected against low-pressure water jets.
  • IPX6: Protected against powerful water jets.
  • IPX7: Protected against immersion in water to a depth of 1 meter, maximum 30 minutes.
  • IPX8: Protected against prolonged immersion in water under specified conditions.
  • IPX9K: Protected against high-pressure steam cleaning.

In practice

You now know that IP rating is an essential specification when choosing the right fixture for specific environments and applications. For example, for outdoor use, fixtures rated IP44 or IP54 are suitable because of their protection against splashing water. For more demanding environments, such as industrial facilities with high-pressure cleaning, fixtures with higher IP ratings, such as IP66 or IP67, are required.

Our waterproof fixtures

At Lixero, we offer fixtures with different IP ratings to meet a variety of needs. For example, our WB, WB-EX, OG-M and OG-L fixtures are IP66 rated, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications where resistance to dust and water is critical.

WB

IK value

In addition to the IP rating, the IK rating is another important specification when evaluating the safety of fixtures. Whereas the IP rating focuses on protection against dust and moisture, the IK rating indicates how impact-resistant a fixture is. Together, these two values work in harmony to provide a safe and reliable solution in different environments.

Getting Started

Now that you understand that IP rating is an important factor in selecting fixtures, you can get started with this. Choosing fixtures with the correct IP rating for the intended application ensures long-lasting performance and safety in a variety of environments. Whether for indoor or outdoor applications, retail buildings or industrial facilities. The IP rating plays a role in for reliable lighting solutions that meet the highest standards. Wondering what we can do for you? Request a free quote or lighting plan, and discover the possibilities!