LED lights are becoming increasingly popular in lighting applications, especially outdoor lighting. LED lights have many advantages, including high energy efficiency, long lifespan, and low maintenance requirements. However, there are various options available in the market. When selecting LED lights, one crucial factor to consider is the IP rating. In this article, we will explore the IP rating of LED lights and its impact on your outdoor lighting choices.

The IP rating, also known as the Ingress Protection rating, is indeed a crucial factor to consider when choosing led lights, particularly for outdoor or industrial applications. The IP rating indicates the level of protection provided by the luminaire against solid objects (such as dust) and liquids (such as water) ingress.

IP ratings consist of two digits:

LED lights are increasingly popular in lighting applications, especially for outdoor lighting. led luminaires offer many advantages, including high energy efficiency, long lifespan, and low maintenance requirements. However, with a variety of options available in the market, choosing the right led lights involves considering factors such as the IP rating. In this article, we will explore the IP ratings of led lights and their impact on your outdoor lighting choices.

The IP rating, or Ingress Protection rating, is a crucial factor to consider when selecting led lights, especially for outdoor or industrial applications. The IP rating indicates the luminaire's level of protection against the ingress of solid objects (such as dust) and liquids (such as water).

IP ratings consist of two digits:

The first digit represents the level of protection against solid objects, ranging from 0 (no protection) to 6 (complete protection against dust).

The second digit represents the level of protection against liquids, ranging from 0 (no protection) to 9 (protection against high-pressure and high-temperature water jets).

IP ratings are assigned based on standardized testing procedures outlined in international standards such as IEC 60529 and European standard EN 60509. These tests evaluate the luminaire's ability to withstand mechanical impacts for dust protection, exposure to fine dust particles for dustproof testing, and water spray or immersion for waterproof testing.

According to the test results, the device is assigned an IP rating, with the first digit representing the level of protection against solid objects and the second digit representing the level of protection against moisture. A higher IP rating indicates better resistance to ingress of solid objects, dust, and moisture.

It is 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, IP ratings provide a useful method for comparing the relative protection levels of different devices.

What is ip 65 rating？

Provides complete protection against ingress of external dust and meets standard waterproofing requirements. Common IP65 waterproof led lights include outdoor landscape lights, floodlights, streetlights, and industrial lights.

What is ip 66 rating？

Similar to IP65 lights but with stronger waterproof capabilities, although they cannot be submerged underwater.

What is ip 67rating？

Designed for short-term immersion in water and commonly used for lights installed in close proximity to water sources.

What is ip 68 rating？

Offers the highest level of protection and can withstand prolonged submersion underwater.

Why are ip ratings important?

When selecting a luminaire, the IP rating specification should reflect the necessary protection provided by the environmental conditions the luminaire is likely to encounter.

Luminaires that lack dust protection can easily allow dust to enter the power supply cavity, which can accelerate corrosion and damage to the led power supply, causing it to fail or even start a fire. In addition, dust entering the led module can also affect the efficiency and illumination of the luminaire. In industrial and factory environments, the amount of dust is huge, and if it comes into contact with the electrically charged parts of the led luminaire, it may trigger an explosion.

If the luminaire is not waterproof, hazardous liquids (e.g., water) may enter the power supply cavity inside the led luminaire, resulting in a short circuit in the internal circuit. Water can also affect the light distribution of the led lamp, ultimately affecting the lighting effect. In addition, water entering the interior of the led lamp can lead to corrosion, affecting the service life of the led lamp.

Ensuring that luminaires are properly protected against dust and water is critical to protecting equipment from dust and water, as well as helping to extend the service life of led lamps and ensure safety and lighting effects.

By introducing the knowledge of IP ratings, we hope to better assist you in selecting suitable led luminaires. Understanding the installation environment of luminaires is crucial before making a choice. Choosing luminaires with the appropriate IP ratings based on different environmental conditions is necessary. IP65 and IP66 ratings are common for outdoor luminaires, while IP67 or IP68 ratings are recommended for underwater use. Additionally, considering impact resistance (IK rating) is also essential. You can explore more information about led luminaire IK ratings in our article.