Understanding IP Ratings: A Comprehensive Guide

Manufacturers frequently label their products as “dust-resistant” or “waterproof” to highlight their durability. However, these descriptions don’t fully convey the degree of protection they offer. To provide a more precise representation, manufacturers utilize IP ratings. But what exactly is an IP rating?

The IP rating for Ingress Protection is a standardized system as defined by International Standard EN 60529. It gauges how well electrical devices fend off foreign entities, such as dust, wires, and moisture, like water. The rating consists of two numbers: the first indicates protection against solids, while the second pertains to liquids.

The IP rating plays a crucial role when shopping for electronic items like light fixtures or LED strips. Below, I offer an in-depth guide to various IP ratings and their appropriate applications.

Understanding IP Rating

IP Rating stands for Ingress Protection. It defines the level of sealing effectiveness of electrical devices against intrusion from foreign bodies, like dirt and moisture. Generally, an IP rating has two digits. The first digit pertains to protection against solid objects, while the second addresses liquids. A higher number following the “IP” signifies more excellent protection. Sometimes, there’s an additional letter to provide further details, though it’s commonly left out.

Why Do We Use an IP Rating System? Why Does It Matter?

The IP rating system is incredibly important, not only for the information it tells you about a light fixture but also because it is an international standard.

Helps You Choose the Appropriate Fixture

As for the first point, knowing the IP rating of a light fixture will help you decide if it is suitable for your needs. For example, if you want to place a light in a fountain, pool, or another underwater location, the IP rating will tell you if the light can handle that. Or, if you are in an industrial setting with fine particles in the air, the IP rating can confirm whether those particles will get into the fixture and ruin it.

Provides Safety

Choosing the appropriate fixture for a space is important for several reasons. Most importantly, it keeps you and others around the light safe. You hopefully know that there is a major risk of electrocution if water and electricity mix. There is also a risk if dust enters a light and causes it to malfunction.

Details Longevity and Functionality

Using the right fixture also directly impacts how well it will work and how long it will last. This is incredibly important for your bottom line. After all, the more frequently you have to replace a fixture, the more money you will spend. There is also the chance that if it doesn’t work correctly, it could hurt productivity. For example, if workers can’t see labels clearly, it may take longer to find the right items. Or, if you are lighting a manufacturing plant, workers may have to be more careful (and therefore slower) if the light is dimmer.

Creates an Industry Standard

As mentioned, the IP rating is an industry-standard across the world. This is especially important, as it lets you easily buy lights or other fixtures from another country without worrying about the description. There are no worries about translational errors. You also don’t have to take the time to learn numerous different rating systems. After all, without the IP rating, every country or even company could have its rating system.

Not only would it be more complicated to understand multiple systems, but it could also lead to unscrupulous companies taking advantage of that. For example, one company could use a rating system similar to that of another company but with lower standards per qualification. That could potentially mislead clients into thinking that the fixtures have better ingress protection than they do.

Having a universal system with a standardized IP rating prevents these issues. It makes it easier to buy fixtures internationally and ensures that you know the level of ingress protection of the fixture.

To break it down, an IP rating describes how well a device can ward off elements such as dust, water, and accidental touches. This standard applies to various electronic devices, including lights, phones, irons, TVs, etc.

What’s the Highest IP Rating?

The highest IP rating is IP69. This lets you know that the fixture is “dust-tight,” meaning no dust can enter the unit. This rating means that the light can handle high pressure and high-temperature water or steam in terms of water protection.

Keep in mind that some fixtures with an X8 or X9 rating will be hermetically sealed so no water whatsoever can get inside. This is most common. Sometimes, however, some water can get inside, but it will not negatively affect the fixture if it does.

The IP69K rating is the go-to choice for industries where frequent sanitization is necessary. It can handle high-pressure, high-temperature water used to sanitize food processing and other similar locations.

You are unlikely to need this IP rating unless you are in an industry where you regularly use high-pressure sprays with chemicals to clean the surfaces.

Decoding IPX Rating

When you see an ‘X’ in an IP rating, it signifies a lack of specific rating information. If the ‘X’ replaces the first Digit, there’s no given protection against solids, like dust. When it’s in the place of the second Digit, the device lacks a specific rating for liquid protection.

For instance, IPX6 means the device can withstand water sprays but hasn’t been tested or rated against solid particle intrusion. Conversely, IP6X tells us the device is protected from substantial intrusion but lacks specific liquid protection data.

Interpreting Numbers and Letters in IP Rating

Every number and letter within the IP rating has a purpose. Each Digit represents a distinct level of protection.

1st Digit:

The IP rating’s initial Digit represents protection against solid objects like dust, hands, or various tools. Reliable defense is ranked using X, 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6, with each number symbolizing distinct protective characteristics.

2nd Digit:

The second figure in the IP rating details the enclosure’s ability to shield its inner components from different moisture forms, like splashes, drips, or immersion. The moisture protection scale includes X, 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 6K, 7, 8, 9, and 9K. Each number, as with the initial Digit, signifies varying protection levels.

Extra Letters:

Any letter following the IP rating digits provides additional details based on product standards. While often left out in product descriptions, understanding these letters can enhance clarity regarding the protection grade.

IP Rating Comparison Chart

IP ratings gauge protection across three primary parameters:

How Does IP Rating Measure? 

1. User Contact Resistance:

As devices are used or installed, they may come into contact with other equipment or human touch. The IP rating offers insight into a device’s safety level or resistance to unintended user interactions. For instance, a rating of IP2X signifies protection against contact like a finger.

2. Solid Penetration Resistance:

This metric focuses on a device’s safeguard against foreign objects such as dust or dirt. The IP rating’s first Digit indicates this protection level. For example, an IP6X rating means the device is completely protected from dust intrusion.

3. Liquid Penetration Resistance:

This component of the IP rating tells us about a device’s resilience against moisture or liquids. The second Digit provides this detail. For instance, IPX4 suggests that water splashes from any angle won’t negatively affect the device.

Understanding the Importance of IP Ratings

The IP rating system clearly indicates an electrical device’s capability to withstand challenging environments or weather scenarios. When equipped with this rating, consumers can confidently gauge the resilience of any equipment.

Often, manufacturers might label their products as water-resistant or dustproof, leaving ambiguity regarding the extent of their protection. However, an IP rating offers precise details about its defensive attributes. Take, for instance, a device labeled IP67. This indicates:

• Total resistance to dust.
• Capability to be submerged in water for up to 30 minutes (though specifics might vary based on manufacturer details).

Therefore, when making a purchase, reviewing IP ratings to ensure you understand the product’s protective features is beneficial. Let’s say you’re considering outdoor LED lights. Given the potential exposure to elements like rain or storms, choosing devices rated IP67 or IP68 ensures maximum durability.

In conclusion, the IP rating system provides a detailed insight into the protective capacities of a device or fixture. Being informed about these ratings is pivotal in making an informed purchase.

Uses Of IP Rating

IP ratings indicate how well various devices guard their internal components. The following are typical products that feature IP ratings:

Lighting and IP Ratings

Lighting fixtures carry IP ratings to shield them from elements like dust and water. For instance, it’s essential for outdoor installations to pick lights that resist dust and water and can handle conditions like rain or extreme weather events. On the other hand, indoor lights generally don’t need such waterproofing.

Hence, the IP rating suitable for lights depends on their intended use and environment. Below are suggested ratings for diverse lighting situations:

Enclosure Overview

Enclosures with IP ratings are prevalent, catering to various needs from household to industrial applications. These often encase mechanical or electrical systems such as phone casings, instrument containers, etc.

Floor-Standing Enclosure

Standing directly on the ground, these enclosures are more susceptible to water and insect exposure. Hence, IP ratings are crucial for them. A baseline IP43 rating is essential, ensuring protection against tools, wires, and tiny insects and resisting water sprays angled up to 60 degrees from vertical.

However, the ultimate IP rating required often relies on the contents within the enclosure. IP67 or IP68 is recommended for optimal protection, guaranteeing dust tightness and robust water resistance, and safeguarding your device.

General-Purpose Enclosure

These are versatile enclosures designed to safeguard a broad spectrum of electrical gear. They can be incredibly adaptable, housing various electronic devices, some even featuring keypad or lock systems. While the basic ones may not have IP ratings, those designed for outdoor or industrial applications often boast an IP65 or higher rating.

Handheld Enclosure

Designed for portability, handheld enclosures are compact and primarily focus on preventing unintended damage. Thus, they might have a relatively lower IP rating. However, those intended for outdoor use or damp settings will possess higher IP ratings. Examples of items in this category are voltmeter casings, digital thermostats, flow meters, and rugged phones.

Enclosure Add-ons

Apart from the primary enclosures, their associated accessories also have IP ratings. These ratings are critical, ensuring the accessories maintain the enclosure’s integrity. Standard additions include adhesive feet, keypads, fasteners, brackets, and locking mechanisms.

Other Items with IP Ratings

In addition to various enclosures, many other products utilize the IP rating system to indicate their protection levels such as wall boxes, instrument casings, and power supply containers.

Thus, the IP rating is a significant consideration for nearly all electrical devices. It’s essential to take it into account when buying fixtures or appliances.

Ideal IP Ratings for LED Lights

The required IP lighting ratings differ based on placement and intended function. Therefore, lights are assigned specific IP ratings that make them suitable for their environments. Here’s a breakdown of the ideal IP ratings for different LED lighting applications:

Indoor Illumination

Indoor lights generally aren’t exposed to significant amounts of dust or moisture. As such, a rating of IP20 is typically sufficient for such settings, safeguarding against intrusions like fingers. However, for bathrooms, a higher IP rating is needed due to the presence of moisture.

Bathroom Lighting

For bathroom settings, it’s essential to select lights with the correct IP ratings, given their frequent exposure to water. Bathrooms can be categorized into four distinct zones, with IP rating necessities for each zone detailed as follows-

So, get a proper idea about your bathroom zones and choose the safe fixture.

Outdoor Security Lighting

Outdoor security lights are frequently exposed to challenging weather conditions such as heavy rainfall, storms, and thick dust. It’s crucial to choose a light fixture with an appropriate IP rating. For most locations, IP44 – IP68 would be suitable. However, IP68 is the best outdoor option, offering complete dust protection and water resistance.

Street Path Lighting

Selecting the perfect fixture for street lighting means considering its potential exposure to elements like dust, wind, and rain. Institutions with a higher IP rating will robustly guard against street dust and rainfall. Aim for a minimum of IP65, though IP67 or IP68 would be optimal.

Garden Illumination

The ideal IP rating for garden lights depends on their placement. If your light fixture is situated in a more protected spot, shielded from the harshest elements, IP54 should suffice. However, an IP65 rating or above is recommended for directly exposed institutions.

Waterproof Lighting Solutions

For areas like outdoor pools or musical fountains, it’s essential to have waterproof lighting. When selecting the perfect fixture, understanding the distinctions between IP65, IP67, and IP68 will guide you to the most suitable choice.

LED Strip IP Ratings: A Comprehensive Guide

Before purchasing LED strips, understanding the range of IP ratings is crucial. Here’s a concise overview of the maximum and minimum IP ratings for LED strips:

Maximum IP Rating: IP68

IP68 is the pinnacle of protection for LED strips. An LED strip with this rating offers:

• Dustproof Protection: IP68-rated LED strips are entirely dustproof, making them ideal for outdoor use where dust accumulation is a concern.
• Waterproofness: Such a strip can be submerged in water for extended periods, although the exact duration can vary based on the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Given this rating, IP68 LED strips can illuminate various settings, including pools, underwater zones, bathrooms, and outdoor spaces like streets and walls.

Minimum IP Rating: IP20

An LED strip should ideally possess an IP rating of at least IP20. This ensures the strip’s protection against larger objects (over 12.5 mm), such as fingers. However, these strips aren’t protected against dust or water.

Consequently, IP20-rated LED strips best suit indoor environments like bedrooms, offices, and living rooms.

Distinguishing Between High and Low IP Ratings

When it comes to LED strips:

• Low IP ratings cater primarily to indoor settings, while higher IP ratings are designed for outdoor usage, given their ability to endure harsh weather.
• Strips with a high IP rating have water resistance up to a certain point. For instance, while IP67 offers water resistance, it isn’t meant for prolonged submersion like IP68. On the other hand, low IP-rated fixtures don’t provide water resistance.

Opt for a lower IP rating for indoor spaces and a higher IP rating for outdoor or industrial usage.

Why do IP Ratings Matter When Shopping for LED Strips?

The versatility of LED strips, suitable for indoor and outdoor applications, is primarily dictated by their IP rating. Here’s why considering IP ratings is pivotal:

• Guided Fixture Selection: The IP rating is instrumental in directing your choice of fixtures. For instance, if you aim to illuminate a pool, you need a submersible strip. Not all water-resistant ratings will suffice. Recognizing the difference between ratings like IP68 and IP65 can be the deciding factor.
• Safety Assurance: Combining electricity and water can be hazardous. Understanding the IP rating can ensure that your chosen LED strip is water-resistant, safeguarding against potential dangers.
• Reflects Functionality & Longevity: IP ratings indirectly signify an LED strip’s performance and durability. For instance, an IP68-rated strip indicates suitability for wet environments, guiding its application in areas like bathrooms or pools.
• Upholds Global Standards: IP ratings are standardized universally. They define the protection level of electrical devices, including LED strips, and enable seamless international purchases without needing physical testing.

In conclusion, paying attention to IP ratings is a fundamental step when selecting LED strips for your desired application.

IP44 vs. IP65: Which Offers Superior Protection?

IP44 and IP65 ratings guarantee protection from objects, accidental touches, and tools. However, which stands out? Here’s a comparison:

1. IP65 guarantees complete protection against dust, whereas IP44 lacks this dust resistance, leading to potential damage from dust entering its enclosure.
2. While IP44 cannot withstand water jets, IP65 can resist low-pressure ones.

Upon comparison, IP65 proves to offer more comprehensive protection than IP44.

IP55 vs. IP65: Which Shields Better?

IP55 and IP65 defend equally against liquid ingress, ensuring no harm from water jets. Their primary difference lies in protection against solid particles:

1. IP55 offers partial dust protection, allowing some dust accumulation. On the other hand, IP65 guarantees complete protection against dust.

Given the superior dust resistance, IP65 stands above IP55.

IP55 vs. IP66: Which is the Preferred Choice?

IP55 and IP66 vary in their levels of solid and liquid ingress protection. Delving into their specifics:

1. While IP55 offers protection from dust, it’s not absolute. Conversely, IP66 ensures a dust-free environment.
2. For liquid defense, IP66 is superior, resisting more potent water jets than IP55.
3. IP55 can manage water at 30 kPa pressure and 12.5 liters/min volume. In contrast, IP66 handles water up to 100 liters/min at 100 kPa.

Considering these attributes, IP66 offers more robust protection compared to IP55.

IP55 vs. IPX4: A Clear Winner?

To discern the better choice between IP55 and IPX4, consider the following points:

1. IPX4’s ‘X’ signifies an unrated protection against solid ingress. Contrarily, IP55 is certified for concrete defense, making it a more reliable pick.
2. While IP55 can repel water jets from all angles, IPX4 only resists splashes and cannot handle water jets.

Given its dual protection prowess, IP55 trumps IPX4.

IP67 vs. IP68: Which Reigns Supreme?

To determine which is superior between IP67 and IP68, it’s essential to understand their commonalities and distinctions. Here’s a breakdown:

Shared Features of IP67 & IP68:

• Suitable for outdoor applications.
• Offers strong protection against dust.
• Both can handle immersion in water up to 1m deep.

Differences Between IP67 & IP68:

• IP67 offers water resistance, meaning it can block water entry to a certain degree, but not entirely. On the other hand, IP68 is waterproof, ensuring complete water protection.
• Devices rated IP67 can withstand immersion in 1m deep water for up to 30 minutes. In contrast, IP68-rated products can be submerged deeper than 1m and for durations exceeding 30 minutes, subject to the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Upon comparing the two, IP68 emerges as the more robust option than IP67.

Is IP69 Superior to IP68?

While IP68 and IP69 offer the same protection against solids, they differ significantly in their liquid ingress protection capabilities.

IP69 provides resistance to high-temperature water, intense water pressure, and washdowns. It’s a preferred choice for environments needing rigorous sanitation, such as pharmaceuticals, chemical production, and food and beverage processing. This is why devices in these industries often carry the IP69 rating.

On the other hand, IP68 is designed to handle continuous submersion under specified conditions, typically up to at least 1 meter deep for 30 minutes or longer.

Though IP69 offers the utmost protection against liquids, it’s often deemed excessive for many uses. IP68, however, is more widely adopted for general-purpose items, like lights and LED strips. IP69, in comparison, is ideal for equipment that undergoes frequent high-pressure washdowns. The choice between IP69 and IP68 ultimately depends on the intended application.

Does a Higher IP Rating Indicate Better Protection?

A higher IP rating signifies enhanced protection from solid and liquid intrusion. Devices or LED strips with elevated IP ratings can endure challenging conditions, such as heavy rainfall, storms, and dust, allowing their use in various environments without the fear of damage.

For instance, an IP68-rated LED strip is suitable for underwater applications, making it perfect for musical fountains, swimming pools, and bathtubs.

Conversely, devices with a lower IP rating might not offer complete protection against water and dust, making them less suited for harsh environments or outdoor use.

In conclusion, a superior IP rating ensures more excellent protection, making it a preferable choice.

Why is Water Resistance Vital for LED Strips?

Water resistance in LED strips, often denoted by an IP rating, is crucial due to the following factors:

Protection Against Water

LED strips serve multiple functions, both indoors and outdoors. This versatility exposes them to a range of environmental conditions. An IP water resistance rating ensures they remain durable in such situations. Furthermore, an IP68 rating offers comprehensive protection against water. Such LED strips can be safely utilized in submerged settings like swimming pools, bathtubs, and decorative fountains.

Performance in Outdoor Environments

Water resistance isn’t just a benefit for outdoor illumination – it’s essential. LED strips having IP ratings such as IP65, IP67, and IP68 can fend off water to varying degrees. For instance, while IP65 is designed to manage low-pressure water jets, IP67 and IP68 are optimized for conditions like heavy rainfall.

Worldwide Recognition

The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standardized the IP rating system under Standard 60529. This globally accepted system empowers businesses and customers worldwide to choose water-resistant LED strips confidently. In conclusion, considering their IP water resistance rating is indispensable when picking LED strips for any task.

Understanding IP Waterproof Ratings

Before delving into the specifics of IP ratings, it’s vital to clarify the term ‘waterproof.’ Indeed, waterproof devices are entirely impervious to water penetration. However, we frequently conflate ‘waterproof’ with ‘water-resistant’ (which denotes limited protection against water). For instance, IP68 is deemed waterproof – it prevents water from infiltrating and can even be submerged based on the manufacturer’s guidelines. Conversely, ratings like IP65, IP66, and IP67 are water-resistant, offering partial protection against water but not absolute immunity.

Can a Single Product Have Multiple IP Ratings?

A product with only one IP rating indicates that it has cleared tests up to the mentioned standard. For instance, an IP67-rated LED strip has passed all tests up to the IP67 level, including all lower ratings.

However, certain products might showcase multiple IP ratings. For instance, a rating of IP55/IP57 suggests the product cleared tests up to IP55 and passed IP57 tests but couldn’t clear the IPX6 test. Such multi-ratings are frequently observed in mobile devices.

Another example is the IP68M and IP69K ratings, where the product has successfully cleared both assessments.

Understanding IP Rating Tests

Testing for IP ratings involves specialized equipment, with various tests for different ratings. The tests generally fall into two categories: pushing against solids like dust and liquids.

Dust Resistance Assessment

This test measures a product’s resilience against dust accumulation. Typically required for medical and electronic devices prone to dust, the outcomes dictate the rating. If a product’s functionality remains unaffected by dust, it’s awarded the IP5X rating. A tight dust protection outcome results in an IP6X rating.

Water Resistance Assessment

This test gauges a product’s defense against water from sprays, splashes, or total immersion. For example, a product tested for IPX4 will undergo oscillating spray exposure for a minimum of 10 minutes. If it experiences minimal water penetration without any detrimental effects, it passes. Similarly, a product earns an IP67 rating when submerged in 1 meter of water for 30 minutes without experiencing damage.

Advanced equipment, like MyLikeLed’s “IP3-6 Integrated Waterproof Test Chamber” and “IPX8 Flooding Pressure Testing Machine”, are employed for precise water resistance tests on products like LED strips.

In Conclusion

IP ratings play a crucial role in determining the durability of electronic devices against solid and liquid intrusions. This is equally pertinent for LED strips.

This rating informs users about the resilience of an LED strip in challenging environments, aiding in decision-making about its placement. For instance, LED strips with lower IP ratings are more suited for indoors, while those with higher ratings are fit for outdoor use.

MyLikeLed offers top-notch LED strips across various IP ratings. Our state-of-the-art testing labs include the “IP3-6 Integrated Waterproof Test Chamber” and “IPX8 Flooding Pressure Testing Machine” to ensure precise IP assessments. Our LED strips range from P20/IP52/IP65/IP67/IP68, and MyLikeLed’s skilled team can also cater to tailored needs for different IP ratings. Reach out to MyLikeLed for your ideal LED lighting solution.