Understanding IP Ratings

Professional quality landscape lighting products must be designed and built to be able to withstand a wide range of outdoor environmental conditions while continuing to operate efficiently. At VOLT® Lighting, we rigorously test all of our products to achieve certain sets of standards. These tests, by which we measure factors such as safety, efficiency, and durability, are important to our team and equally important for peace of mind for our customers. One of the factors that we regularly test for is the Ingress Protection (IP) ratings of our fixtures.

 

What is an IP Rating?

IP ratings are used to determine how effectively a fixture is sealed to prevent intrusion by foreign objects (sand, dirt, etc.) and moisture. Fixtures are measured on a two-tier scale. The first test for intrusion protection and the second test is for moisture protection; each test yields its unique rating.

 

What do the numbers in an IP Rating mean?

The numbers that correspond with Ingress Protection each have a specific meaning (see chart below). The first number indicates the degree of protection from moving parts (tools), as well as the protection of enclosed equipment from foreign objects (soil, pests, etc.). The second number defines the protection level from various forms of moisture (drips, sprays, submersion, etc.). The table below should help to elaborate:

  

Why do we test for IP Ratings?

The standards aim to provide our customers with more detailed information than vague statements such as “built for the outdoors” or “super-strong.” Through these tests, we ensure that vital parts of fixtures are protected from physical damage and the intrusion of moisture. Only after this rigorous testing is completed are we proud to claim that we offer highly durable, water-resistant, and even industry-leading IP68 rated fixtures.

 

For additional information on IP Ratings for electrical enclosures, VISIT: http://bit.ly/2B3BzLL