When purchasing any LED light, the durability of the light fixture is directly or indirectly determined by its IK ratings. As the demand for LED lights continues to increase, it is critical to understand the importance of IK ratings for LED lights.

The IK rating determines how well a product is protected against any impact. Accidents, such as being hit or falling from a height, can happen to any indoor or outdoor fence. And make sure that the equipment remains free from damage after such an event. IK ratings It is divided into different grades, each grade represents a specific limit of resistance. This article will provide a comprehensive guide on IK ratings and their impact on LED lamp performance.

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What is an IK rating?

The IK rating is an international standard that first defined IK ratings in 1995 to indicate the degree of protection of electrical enclosures against any mechanical shock. The IK rating is used to determine the level of protection provided by LED lights against external elements such as shock, vibration and other environmental hazards. The IK rating system ranges from IK00 to IK10, where IK00 represents no protection and IK10 represents the highest level of protection.

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Interpreting the IK rating of LED lights

Understanding the different IK ratings and their corresponding levels of protection is critical when selecting LED lights for different applications. The table below summarizes the different IK classes and their corresponding protection levels.

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How IK Ratings Affect LED Light Performance

The IK rating plays a vital role in determining the level of protection provided by LED lights against external mechanical impact. LED lights with a higher IK rating provide better protection against shock, vibration and other hazards, ensuring durability and reliability. Also, in the lighting industry, the IK rating of a luminaire is critical, especially for outdoor lighting. This is because outdoor lights are exposed to harsh environmental conditions that can damage the lights. Therefore, it is necessary to check whether the protection level of the lamp meets the industry or national requirements. That’;s why IK ratings are critical when buying floodlights, street lights, stadium lights and some specialty outdoor lights

For example, LED lights with an IK08 rating can withstand an impact of 5 joules, making them suitable for outdoor applications where they may be exposed to wind-blown objects or accidental impact. On the other hand, LED lights with an IK02 rating are suitable for indoor applications where the risk of shock and vibration is low. So be sure to check the IK rating when installing any fixtures outdoors. For better protection, always choose a higher IK rating, especially for outdoor lighting.

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Testing and Certification of IK Class LED Lamps

IK Testing of LED Lamps

To receive an IK rating, LED lights must undergo rigorous testing to determine their level of protection.

The measurement of the IK rating involves a “;controlled drop”; test method in a controlled environment. This test applies a predetermined amount of energy to an enclosure to evaluate its impact resistance. The controlled drop test method involves two key factors: the distance between the sample cover and the hammer and the weight of the hammer.

During this standardized test, a fixed weight is placed above the enclosure at a fixed height and angle. The weight is then allowed to fall freely with a specific impact energy. This process was repeated three times in the same location to ensure consistency. To ensure reliable impact protection, weights can be used to strike multiple housing locations without causing bounce.

IK certification of LED lights

Testing is performed by accredited laboratories and overseen by regulatory agencies to ensure compliance with industry standards. After testing is complete, LED lights are rated according to their level of impact protection. Ratings range from IK00, which offers no impact protection, to IK10, which offers the highest level of protection.

To verify the IK rating of an LED lamp, the manufacturer must provide documentation and a certificate of compliance issued by an accredited testing laboratory. This ensures that the LED lights are tested and meet the standards required for impact protection.

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Cautions For IK Ratings Test

• The IK rating test should be conducted in a controlled environment with the appropriate temperature and air pressure. As per the IEC 62262 standard, a recommended temperature range of 150C to 350C and air pressure range of 86 kPa-106 kPa should be maintained when testing the IK rating of lights.
• To ensure proper protection of the light fixture, a shock must be applied to the entire enclosure during the test. It is important to perform the test with the lamp fully assembled and installed to ensure an accurate IK rating of the final product.
• The test sample does not require any pretreatment, and the light should not be turned on during the test. Supplying power to the fixture during IK testing may cause accidents, and therefore, it is essential to handle electrical contacts with care and unplug the lamp when testing.
• If the luminaire’;s installation may affect the test results, the test must be conducted at the luminaire’;s installation position. In cases where impact testing is not possible due to the luminaire’;s construction, a unique luminaire can be used to complete the test. However, it is crucial not to replace the fixture in a way that reduces its mechanical strength.

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Conclusion

In summary, knowing the IK rating is critical when selecting LED lamps for different applications. The IK rating provides important information about the level of impact protection of an LED lamp, which determines its durability and ability to cope in adverse environments.

When choosing an LED light, consider not only the IK Rating, but also other factors that affect its performance, such as color temperature, beam angle, and color rendering index.

By understanding IK Ratings testing and certification process, consumers can be sure that the LED lights they purchase meet the required safety standards. Overall, the correct selection of LED lights with the proper IK rating can improve performance, durability, and reliability in a variety of settings. For example, lower IK ratings (IK01 to IK06) are suitable for indoor lighting; higher IK ratings (IK07 to IK10) are suitable for outdoor lighting.

If you are still not sure how to choose or have higher requirements, you can contact Lacelesty. Our technicians can give you professional advice to enhance your lighting project.