IP Rating: The Comprehensive Overview

Manufacturers often use the term “dust resistant” or “waterproof” to describe their products’ robustness. But such statements don’t give proper justification for the extent of protection. So, to specify and strengthen such claims, they use IP ratings to define the resistance level of their products. But what does IP rating mean?

The IP rating system, as defined by the International Standard EN 60529, is a critical tool for assessing the protective capabilities of electrical devices against the ingress of solids and liquids. Each digit in this two-digit grading system has a specific meaning. The first digit, ranging from 0 to 6, indicates the level of protection against solid objects, including dust and other foreign bodies like tools or wires. A higher number represents a higher level of protection. Similarly, the second digit, which ranges from 0 to 9, signifies the degree of protection against liquids, particularly water. This digit assesses how well the device can resist moisture under various conditions, such as drips, sprays, submersion, and high-pressure water jets.

IP protection ratings are an important factor when purchasing electronic equipment, including lamps or LED strings. So here I’ve detailed the various IP ratings and their appropriate uses

What Is IP Rating?

IP rating, which stands for “Ingress Protection” or sometimes “International Protection,” is a standardized system used to classify and rate the degree of protection provided by an electrical or electronic enclosure against the intrusion of solid objects (like dust) and liquids (such as water). The IP rating is typically used to indicate how well a device or enclosure can withstand environmental conditions and potentially harmful external elements.

The IP rating consists of two digits, each with a specific meaning:

1. The first digit (ranging from 0 to 6): This digit indicates the level of protection against the intrusion of solid objects, like dust and particles.
   • 0: No protection against solid objects.
   • 1: Protection against objects larger than 50mm (e.g., accidental contact with the hand).
   • 2: Protection against objects larger than 12.5mm (e.g., fingers).
   • 3: Protection against objects larger than 2.5mm (e.g., tools and wires).
   • 4: Protection against objects larger than 1mm (e.g., small tools and wires).
   • 5: Limited dust ingress protection (dust-tight, but not entirely sealed).
   • 6: Complete dust ingress protection (dust-tight).
2. The second digit (ranging from 0 to 9): This digit indicates the level of protection against the intrusion of liquids, such as water.
   • 0: No protection against liquids.
   • 1: Protection against vertically falling water droplets.
   • 2: Protection against water droplets when tilted up to 15 degrees.
   • 3: Protection against spraying water at an angle of up to 60 degrees from vertical.
   • 4: Protection against splashing water from any direction.
   • 5: Protection against low-pressure water jets from any direction.
   • 6: Protection against high-pressure water jets from any direction.
   • 7: Protection against the immersion of the device in water up to 1 meter deep for a limited time.
   • 8: Protection against continuous immersion in water beyond 1 meter deep, with the specific depth and time duration specified by the manufacturer.
   • 9: Protection against high-pressure and high-temperature water jets (commonly used in industrial settings).

The higher the numeric value for each digit, the greater the level of protection provided by the device or enclosure. For example, an IP67-rated device is dust-tight and can be submerged in water up to 1 meter deep for a specified time, making it suitable for outdoor and wet environments.

IP ratings are important when selecting electronic equipment for specific applications, as they help ensure that the device can withstand the intended environmental conditions and operate reliably.

What Is IPX Rating?

An IPX rating is a variation of the IP (Ingress Protection) rating system that is commonly used to indicate the level of protection against environmental factors like water and moisture. While the standard IP rating includes two digits, the IPX rating typically omits the first digit, which represents protection against solid objects (e.g., dust and particles), and focuses solely on the level of protection against liquids, particularly water.

So, an IPX rating consists of only one digit, which ranges from 0 to 9, indicating the level of protection against liquids, especially water, as follows:

• IPX0: No protection against liquids.
• IPX1: Protection against vertically falling water droplets.
• IPX2: Protection against water droplets when tilted up to 15 degrees.
• IPX3: Protection against spraying water at an angle of up to 60 degrees from vertical.
• IPX4: Protection against splashing water from any direction.
• IPX5: Protection against low-pressure water jets from any direction.
• IPX6: Protection against high-pressure water jets from any direction.
• IPX7: Protection against the immersion of the device in water up to 1 meter deep for a limited time.
• IPX8: Protection against continuous immersion in water beyond 1 meter deep, with the specific depth and time duration specified by the manufacturer.
• IPX9: Protection against high-pressure and high-temperature water jets (commonly used in industrial settings).

The “X” in the IPX rating is a placeholder for the omitted first digit, which pertains to protection against solid objects. When you see an IPX rating, it means that the rating information is focused exclusively on the device’s resistance to water and moisture.

IPX ratings are commonly used for products such as waterproof and water-resistant electronics, outdoor equipment, and devices meant to withstand wet or humid conditions. These ratings help consumers and users make informed decisions about the product’s suitability for use in specific environments where exposure to water is a concern.

What do the numbers and letters in the IP rating stand for?

In the IP (Ingress Protection) rating:

• The first digit represents protection against solid objects (e.g., dust).
• The second digit represents protection against liquids (e.g., water).
• The “X” in IPX rating is a placeholder, indicating the rating focuses only on protection against liquids, omitting the solid object protection aspect.

IP Rating Comparison Chart

Here’s a comparison chart of common IP (Ingress Protection) ratings and their meanings:

Please note that the higher the number, the better the protection against water or moisture. The chart helps you understand what each IP rating means in terms of water resistance or protection.

What Does IP Rating Measure? 

An IP (Ingress Protection) rating measures the degree of protection provided by an electrical or electronic device, equipment, or enclosure against the intrusion of solid objects and liquids. Specifically, the IP rating measures two primary aspects:

• First Digit (Solid Protection):
  • The first digit in the IP rating (ranging from 0 to 6) indicates the level of protection against solid objects and particulate matter
• Second Digit (Liquid Protection):
  • The second digit in the IP rating (ranging from 0 to 9 or “X”) indicates the level of protection against liquids

An “X” in either digit indicates that no specific rating has been assigned for that particular protection aspect (e.g., IPX5 implies protection against water splashes, but no specific rating for solid objects).

Manufacturers use IP ratings to help consumers and businesses make informed decisions about the suitability of electronic devices and equipment for specific environmental conditions or applications. For example, a smartphone with an IP68 rating is both dust-tight and can withstand immersion in water up to a certain depth for a specified duration.

Why Have An IP Rating System?

the IP rating system provides a standardized and universally understood way to communicate the level of protection against solids and liquids that a product offers. This system benefits consumers, manufacturers, industries, and regulatory bodies by ensuring the appropriate use, safety, and durability of electronic devices and equipment in various environmental conditions.

Uses Of IP Rating

IP ratings help ensure the safety, durability, and reliability of equipment in various settings, from consumer products to critical infrastructure, by providing a standardized way to assess their resistance to environmental factors.

Light Rating

Light fixtures have an IP rating to protect them from dust and water. So, for example, when installing lights outdoors, you must ensure they are dust and water-resistant and can withstand rain and other extreme weather conditions. But again, when you need indoor lighting, it doesn’t require waterproof features. 

So, IP ratings of lights vary with the purpose and atmosphere of using them. Here are some ideal ratings for different lighting purposes- 

Enclosure

Enclosures with IP ratings are widely used and can be found in various applications, ranging from domestic to industrial settings. These enclosures are primarily designed to safeguard mechanical or electrical systems, such as phone housings and instrument cases.

Floor Standing Enclosure

Enclosures that stand on the floor quickly get contact with water and insects. That is why the use of IP ratings for such products is essential. And it should have a minimum rating of IP43 for primary protection. With this rating, a floor-standing enclosure can protect itself from tools, wires, and small insects. Besides, it can resist water spray up to 60 degrees from a vertical direction.

Yet, the IP rating of the product depends much on the component placed inside the enclosure. Depending on it, the rating shall go higher; however, IP67 or IP68 work best for secured protection. That is because it ensures tight-dust protection and water resistance and keeps your device safe.

General Purpose Enclosure

General-purpose enclosures are non-specific storage devices that protect an extensive range of electrical equipment. They are highly versatile and have multi-functional electronic storage facilities. Some of them may also have a keypad or lock system.

Usually, the most basic general-purpose enclosure doesn’t have IP ratings. But the ones used for outdoors or industrial purposes have higher IP ratings- IP65 or higher. 

Handheld Enclosure

The handheld enclosures are small in size and intended for portability. Therefore, most concentrate more on shielding the device from unintentional damage. That is why they have a lower IP rating. But the ones used outdoors or in wet environments have higher IP ratings.

The enclosures in this category include- a case of voltmeter, digital thermostats, flow readers or heavy-duty phones, etc. 

Enclosure Accessories 

Indeed, apart from enclosures themselves, the associated accessories also carry their own IP rating. The rating for these accessories assumes significance as they directly impact the safety and functionality when utilized in conjunction with the enclosure. These accessories encompass an extensive range, such as self-adhesive feet, keypads, locks, nuts, brackets, screws, and more.

Other Product

In addition to various enclosure variants, IP rating plays a pivotal role in assessing the ingress protection level of a wide array of products, including wall boxes, instrument enclosures, power supply casings, and more. Consequently, IP rating assumes prominence in virtually every category of electrical apparatus.

It is of paramount importance to meticulously evaluate IP ratings prior to procuring fixtures or appliances, as they directly correlate with a product’s suitability for particular operational environments.

Suitable IP Rating For LED Lighting 

The Ingress Protection (IP) rating for LED lighting fixtures depends on the specific application and environmental conditions where they will be used. The IP rating consists of two digits, with each digit representing a different aspect of protection:

1. The first digit indicates protection against solid objects, such as dust and debris, on a scale from 0 to 6, with higher numbers indicating better protection.
2. The second digit indicates protection against moisture and liquids on a scale from 0 to 9, with higher numbers indicating better protection.

For LED lighting in different environments, here are some common IP ratings

1. Indoor Residential and Commercial Lighting:
   • IP20: Suitable for indoor applications where there is no direct exposure to water or dust. These fixtures are typically used in homes, offices, and retail spaces.
2. Indoor Industrial and Commercial Lighting:
   • IP54 or higher: Recommended for areas where dust and moisture may be present, such as warehouses, factories, and industrial facilities. Higher IP ratings provide better protection.
3. Outdoor Lighting:
   • IP65: Suitable for most outdoor applications where the fixtures may be exposed to rain, snow, or other weather conditions. These are often used for garden lights, pathway lights, and wall-mounted outdoor fixtures.
   • IP66 or higher: More suitable for areas with harsh weather conditions, such as coastal regions or places with heavy rain or snowfall. These are often used for floodlights, streetlights, and exterior wall-mounted fixtures.
4. Specialty Applications:
   • IP67 or higher: Required for underwater or submersible applications. These fixtures can be used in swimming pools, fountains, and underwater landscape lighting.
   • IP68: Designed for continuous submersion in water, such as underwater aquarium lighting or marine applications.

Maximum and minimum IP levels of LED copper string lights

1. Minimum IP Rating:
   • The minimum IP rating for LED copper string lights is typically around IP20. IP20 provides basic protection against solid objects (e.g., fingers or small tools) but offers no protection against moisture or water. These types of string lights are suitable for indoor use in dry environments where they won’t be exposed to water or excessive humidity.
2. Maximum IP Rating:
   • The maximum IP rating for LED copper string lights can vary, but it is often around IP65 or IP66. These higher IP ratings indicate a higher level of protection against dust and moisture, making them suitable for outdoor use. IP65 or IP66-rated string lights can withstand light rain, splashes, and other outdoor environmental factors, making them ideal for outdoor decorations, patio lighting, or events.

Why Should You Consider IP Rating When Buying LED String lights? 

You can use LED String lights both indoors and outdoors. But this suitability depends on its IP rating. Besides this, there are many other reasons to consider the IP rating before buying LED String lights. These are-

Assist You In Selecting the Appropriate Fixture

IP rating assists you in choosing a suitable fixture for your lighting project. For example, if you want to light your pool, it requires a submersible LED String lights. But all IP ratings with water-resistant strips will not work for lighting pools because all don’t support submerging. For instance- IP68 and IP65 are water resistant, but one can immerse and the other can’t. So, knowing the IP rating will help you to get the ideal one.

Again, if you want to light industrial areas that deal with heavy dust, the IP rating of the LED String lights will guide you if it is suitable for that purpose.

Ensure Safety

Electricity and water are always a dangerous combination. So, to ensure safety, it is essential to know if the LED String lights is resistant to water. And for that purpose, knowing the IP rating is necessary.

The IP rating gives the exact idea of how much a LED String lights is resistant to water. It is not only for water; this rating also ensures whether a fixture can conduct on high-voltage or is dustproof. Thus, the IP rating clarifies the safety of a LED strip.

Specifies Functionality & Durability

IP rating indirectly denotes the functionality and durability of LED String lights. But how’s that? Suppose a LED String lights with IP68 rating states that it is waterproof and can function in a wet environment. Thus, you can get the idea to choose it for the bathroom, pool lighting, or for outdoors.

Again, you can also know whether the LED String lights will be durable in rough weather conditions. For example- a LED String lights with IP44 will be stable for indoor use but not a good choice for outdoors. In this way, IP rating can help you to sketch an idea about the functionality and durability of LED String lights.

Builds Industrial Standard 

IP ratings maintain the same standard globally. In addition, it sets an industrial standard to grade the degree of protection of any electrical device, including LED String lights. Thus, IP rating lets you know about the product’s resistance capability. And it also helps you in purchasing fixtures from abroad without worrying about visual testing.

So, for these reasons, as mentioned above, you should consider the IP ratings before purchasing LED String lights.

Swimming Pool Lighting

Which Is Better: IP44 or IP65?

The products with IP44 and IP65 ratings ensure protection from user ingress, touch, wires, tool, etc. But still, which one is better? Let’s compare them to find the better one-

• IP65 ensures proper dust protection. But Light fixtures with IP44 are not dust-resistant. So, dust can enter the enclosure causing damage to the item.
• IP44 can’t withstand water jets. In contrast, IP65 provides water jet protection at low-pressure.

Thus, comparing these two ratings, we found IP65 is better as it provides higher protection than IP44.

Which Is Better: IP55 or IP65?

IP55 and IP65 provide an equal degree of protection against liquid ingress. Thus, water jets from any direction will not harm the product with these IP ratings. But they have differences in solid ingress protection. 

IP55 is partially protected from dust. That is, there are chances for dust accumulation. In contrast, IP65 ensures complete dust protection. So, IP65 is better than IP55. 

Which Is Better: IP55 or IP66?

IP55 and IP66 have different degrees of protection against solid and liquid ingress. Let’s compare these two ratings to find the better one-

• IP55 is dust protected but not entirely; there are chances for dust accumulation. But IP66 is dust-tight. So, no dust can enter the enclosure with IP66 ratings.
• In terms of liquid ingress, IP66 is safer than IP55. IP66 can resist stronger water jets than IP55. 
• IP55 can withstand water pressure of 30 kPa and water volume of 12.5 liters/min. In contrast, IP66 can tolerate water pressure up to 100 liters/min at 100 kPa.

Thus, IP66 gives better protection against solid and liquid ingress than IP55.

Which Is Better: IP55 or IPX4?

Go through the following comparison to choose the better one between IP55 and IPX4-

• The letter ‘X’ in the IPX4 rating denotes that the product/ fixture has not been rated for any specific protection level against solid ingress. In contrast, IP55 has ensured protection from solid ingress (dust protected). So, IP55 is a safer choice than IPX4.
• IP55 is resistant to water jets from all directions. Meanwhile, IPX4 is water-splash resistant and can’t withstand water jets. 

So, for protection against both solid and liquid ingress, IP55 is a better option than IPX4.

Which Is Better: IP67 or IP68?

You should first know the similarities and dissimilarities between IP67 & IP68 to find the better one. These are as follows- 

Similarities Between IP67 & IP68

• Ideal for outdoor uses 
• Provides tough-dust protection
• Both can submerge in 1m depth water. 

Dissimilarities Between IP67 & IP68 

• IP67 is water-resistant (can prevent water entrance to some extent, but not entirely). In contrast, IP68 is waterproof (complete protection from water; water can’t enter).
• A product with IP67 ratings can immerse in the water of 1m depth and withstand only 30 min. Meanwhile, IP68 allows a product/fixture to submerge in more than 1m and last more than 30 minutes, depending on the manufacturer’s specifications. 

After analyzing the similarities and differences between IP67 and 68, I find IP68 is better than IP67.

Is IP69 Better Than IP68?

The IP68 and IP69 ratings share a similar level of protection against solid ingress, but their differentiation becomes evident when considering resistance to liquid ingress.

IP69 offers robust resistance to high temperatures, elevated water pressures, and thorough washout procedures. Consequently, it finds its ideal application in projects necessitating stringent sanitation protocols and the capacity to withstand elevated pressures and hot water cleaning processes. Sectors such as pharmaceuticals, chemical manufacturing, and food and beverage processing extensively employ devices with IP69 ratings.

In contrast, IP68 certification affirms an object’s capability to endure continuous submersion under manufacturer-specified conditions, even at depths exceeding 1 meter for a duration exceeding 30 minutes.

Although IP69 stands as the pinnacle of liquid ingress protection, it is often regarded as excessive for many commonplace applications. Conversely, IP68 serves as the prevailing choice for general purposes, including rating lights and LED String lights. IP68 is favored over IP69 in scenarios where items are not subjected to frequent high-pressure washouts.

Ultimately, when choosing between IP69 and IP68, the selection hinges on the intended purpose and the specific demands of the application.

Is Higher IP Rating Better?

A higher IP rating means better protection from solid and liquid ingress. So, a LED String lights/device with high IP ratings can withstand adverse weather conditions like- heavy rainfall, storm, and dust. That is why you can use them anywhere without worrying about damage from bad weather. Moreover, a higher IP rating- IP68 can submerge in water. So, you can use LED String lights with this rating for lighting music fountains, pools, bathtubs, etc.

On the other hand, a lower IP rating doesn’t support complete protection from dust and water. So, they are not suitable for adverse weather conditions or outdoors.

To sum up, a higher IP rating gives better security, which is why it is a better option.

Why is IP Water Resistance Important For LED String lights?

reasons- 

Protection From Water Damage

LED strings can be used in a variety of applications, both indoors and outdoors. Therefore, it must be able to withstand a wide range of environmental conditions, and the IP waterproof rating allows it to do so.

In addition, IP68 provides full waterproof protection for LED strings that can be used in underwater areas such as pools, bathtubs and artificial fountains.

Outdoor Performance

Water resistance is essential for outdoor lighting. LED light strings with IP water resistance ratings (IP65, 67, and 68) can resist water to a certain extent. For example, IP65 can handle low-pressure water jets, whereas IP67 and IP68 can perform well in heavy rainfall conditions.

International Validity

The IP rating, established by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) under Standard 60529, serves as a globally recognized framework. This system enables businesses and customers worldwide to confidently choose waterproof LED strings suitable for their projects.

Therefore, considering the IP water resistance rating is essential when selecting LED strings, ensuring that the choice aligns with the specific requirements of your project.

What Are IP Waterproof Ratings?

Before delving into the specifics of waterproof ratings, it’s important to clarify the meaning of “waterproof.” Waterproof implies total protection against water ingress; in other words, no water can penetrate the enclosure. However, the term “waterproof” is often confused with “water-resistant,” which denotes the capacity to withstand water to a certain extent but not entirely.

In this context, an IP68 rating signifies that a device is waterproof, offering complete protection against water entry (it can be submerged in water according to the manufacturer’s specifications). Conversely, other ratings such as IP65, IP66, and IP67 are indicative of water resistance. These ratings mean the device can resist water to some degree but are not entirely impervious to water ingress.

Is It Possible To Have Multiple IP Ratings For A Single Product?

When a device is assigned a single IP rating, it signifies that the unit has successfully passed all tests leading up to and including the level indicated by that rating. For instance, an LED strings with an IP67 rating has not only met the criteria for the IP67 standard but also all preceding lower ratings.

However, it’s possible for a product to exhibit multiple IP ratings. An example of this is an IP55/IP57 rating, which conveys that the device has passed all tests up to the IP55 level, has additionally passed the IP57 level tests, but did not meet the criteria for the IPX6 level. This type of multi-IP rating is frequently observed in mobile phones.

Another common instance of a multi-rating is the combination of IP68M and IP69K. This indicates that the product has successfully undergone and passed the testing criteria for both these ratings.

How IP Ratings Are Tested? 

IP rating testing involves various machinery, and different IP ratings must pass several test procedures. Thus, testing IP ratings can be divided into two sections: solid ingress (dust test) and liquid ingress (water test).

Dust-Resistance Testing 

Dust testing ensures a product’s safety or resistance level due to dust accumulation. This testing often requires medical and electronic devices that can attract dust. If the dust test doesn’t interfere with the part’s functionality, it is rated as dust-protected, IP5X. And if the tests result in tight dust protection, the product is rated as IP6X.

Water-Resistant Test

Water-resistance tests evaluate a product’s capability to withstand various forms of water exposure, such as spray, splash, jets, or submersion. For instance, a product undergoes an IPX4 test by being exposed to an oscillating spray for at least 10 minutes. It passes the test if it experiences minimal water ingress and no negative effects on its functionality. Similarly, a product achieves an IP67 rating if it can be submerged in 1 meter of water for 30 minutes without sustaining any damage or functional impairment.

To conduct these tests with precision, specialized equipment is utilized. For example, OKDMX employs advanced testing facilities like the “IP3-6 Integrated Waterproof Test Chamber” and the “IPX8 Flooding Pressure Testing Machine.” These high-tech instruments are essential for accurately assessing the water resistance of LED strings, ensuring they meet the required standards for safety and durability in various environmental conditions.

Conclusion

The IP rating is essential for any electric device to ensure protection from solid and liquid ingress. And the same necessity applies to LED strings also.

The IP rating indicates the functionality of a LED strings under rough weather conditions. And thus, it gives you an idea to choose the ideal location for its installation. For example- LED strings with lower IP ratings are suitable for indoor uses, and higher ones for outdoors.

OKDMX provides premium quality LED strings with a wide variation of IP ratings suitable for all lighting purposes. In addition, we have high-tech testing laboratories to ensure accurate IP ratings, including “IP3-6 Integrated Waterproof Test Chamber” and “IPX8 Flooding Pressure Testing Machine”.

Our standard LED strips are available in P20/IP52/IP65/IP67/IP68. Besides, the expert team of OKDMX also meets your customization needs for other IP ratings. So, contact us soon to get the ultimate LED strings lighting solution!

Related Posts