IMPACT PROTECTION (IK) RATINGS

As we discussed in a previous article, there is a defined set of criteria and measurements for establishing and understanding the degree to which a lighting fixture is air-tight and water-resistant. There is also a code that refers to the amount and type of impact a lighting fixture is designed to withstand. Here are the degrees of protection provided by enclosures for electrical equipment against external mechanical impacts (in accordance with IEC 62262:2002 and IEC 60068-2-75:1997):

• IK00: Not protected.

• IK01: Protected against 0.14 joules impact. Equivalent to impact of 0.25kg mass dropped from 56mm above impacted surface.

• IK02: Protected against 0.2 joules impact. Equivalent to impact of 0.25kg mass dropped from 80 mm above impacted surface.

• IK03: Protected against 0.35 joules impact. Equivalent to impact of 0.25kg mass dropped from 140 mm above impacted surface.

• IK04: Protected against 0.5 joules impact. Equivalent to impact of 0.25kg mass dropped from 200 mm above impacted surface.

• IK05: Protected against 0.7 joules impact. Equivalent to impact of 0.25kg mass dropped from 280 mm above impacted surface.

• IK06: Protected against 1 joules impact. Equivalent to impact of 0.25kg mass dropped from 400 mm above impacted surface.

• IK07: Protected against 2 joules impact. Equivalent to impact of 0.5kg mass dropped from 400 mm above impacted surface.

• IK08: Protected against 5 joules impact. Equivalent to impact of 1.7kg mass dropped from 300 mm above impacted surface.

• IK09: Protected against 10 joules impact. Equivalent to impact of 5kg mass dropped from 200 mm above impacted surface.

• IK10: Protected against 20 joules impact. Equivalent to impact of 5kg mass dropped from 400 mm above impacted surface.