IP (Ingress Protection) Ratings explain how effectively a product will protect solids and water. Depending on the application of your lighting system. IP Ratings are a crucial consideration that could make a world of difference to the longevity and effectiveness of the luminaires. As seen in the diagram below, IP Ratings are separated into two different numbers, for example: IP67. The first number is the level of protection against solids. The ratings are as follows :

RATING AGAINST SOLIDS

• 1 – Protection against a solid object greater than 50mm
• 2 – Protection against a solid object greater than 12.5mm
• 3 – Protection against a solid object greater than 2.5mm
• 4 – Protection against a solid object greater than 1mm
• 5 – Limited ingress of dust. Will not interfere with equipment
• 6 – No ingress of dust permitted
• X – Protection level not formally tested

RATING AGAINST WATER

• 1 – Protection against vertically falling droplets
• 2 – Protection against vertically falling droplets when tilted up to 15 degrees
• 3 – Protection against spraying water up to an angle of 60 degrees
• 4 – Protection against splashes of water from all directions
• 5 – Protection against low pressure jets of water
• 6 – Protection against high pressure jets of water
• 7 – Protection against immersion in water between 15cm-1m deep for 30 minutes
• 8 – Protection against immersion in water under pressure for long periods
• 9 - Protection for close-range, powerful high temperature water jets
• X – Protection level not formally tested

As seen above, the higher the number, the better the level of protection against both solids and water. If your project is an outdoor application, then it will likely need a higher rating against water. If your project is a warehouse application, then it will likely need a higher rating against dust. By correctly selecting the right IP Rating, you are further ensuring the longevity of your lighting fixtures.