What is IP？

IP (Ingress Protection) protection level system is drafted by IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission), according to IEC standard and international GB7001-86 "Classification of Protection Level of Lamp Housing", lamps are classified according to their dust-proof and moisture-proof characteristics . The IP degree of protection is composed of two characteristic numbers.

The first number indicates the level of the lamp against dust and foreign objects intrusion (the foreign objects referred to here, including tools, human fingers, etc., should not touch the live part of the lamp to avoid electric shock). The second number indicates the degree of airtightness of the lamp against moisture and waterproof immersion. The larger the number, the higher the protection level. Such as: enclosure protection class (IP code) Example: IPXX.

0 – No protection.

1 – Protection against objects larger than 50mm, but no protection against deliberate access.

2 – Protection against objects larger than 12.5mm.

3 – Protection against objects larger than 2.5mm.

4 – Protection against objects larger than 1mm.

5 – Dust Protected – guards against most dust entry.

6 – Dust Tight – Guards against all entry of dust.

0 – No Protection.

1 – Protects against vertical dripping water.

2 – Protects against vertical dripping water when the equipment is tilted at a 15o angle.

3 – Protects against vertical sprays of water when the equipment is tilted at a 60o angle.

4 – Protects against splashes of water from any direction.

5 – Protects against light jets of water from any direction.

6 – Protects against strong jets of water from any direction.

7 – Protects against complete immersion up to 1 metre.

8 – Protects against complete immersion at depths beyond 1 metre.

IP ratings for lights

So, what does IP rating mean in lighting? Since lamps contain electrical components and need to be used in a variety of settings and environments, how well they are sealed is important. This is especially useful in outdoor environments, wet areas such as bathrooms and coastal environments, where IP-rated lamps are required for proper and safe application.