What is IP? Why is IP value important in lighting fixtures?
IP refers to a standard also known as "Ingress Protection" or "International Protection". This standard defines a rating that determines the resistance of electrical devices to external factors, especially water and dust. The IP rating consists of two digits and indicates the level of protection of a particular device.
The IP rating is usually written as "IPXY", where the numbers "X" and "Y" refer to specific levels of protection:
X (First Digit): This number indicates the device's resistance to dust. Values range from 0 to 6. For example, X4 indicates that the device is protected against splashes.
Y (Second Digit): This number indicates the device's resistance to liquids. Values are between 0 and 9. For example, Y7 indicates that the device can operate under water for a certain period of time (usually short periods).
In this way, the higher the IP rating of a device, the better protected it is against dust and liquids. For example, IP68 indicates that the device is completely protected from dust and is water resistant even under continuous immersion conditions. IP standards are widely used in various industries to ensure reliability and durability, especially in outdoor lighting fixtures, football fields, parks, gardens, open car parks, road lighting fixtures, design and production of electronic devices.
IP (Ingress Protection) value in lighting luminaires is a criterion that determines the level of protection of luminaires against various external factors. This value indicates how resistant the luminaires are against water, dust, impact and other external factors. The IP value consists of two numbers: the first number represents the level of water resistance and the second number represents the level of dust resistance.
Here are some reasons why IP values are important in lighting fixtures:
Protection Level: The IP rating indicates the luminaire's level of protection against water and dust. This indicates how durable the luminaire is in a particular environment. For example, outdoor luminaires may require high levels of water resistance.
Safety: The IP value indicates that electrical components and cables are protected against external influences. This helps prevent electrical faults and shorts, which ensures a safe lighting solution.
Durability: The IP rating indicates how resistant the luminaire is to shock and impact. It is especially important that luminaires to be used in industrial or outdoor environments are durable.
Long Life: Providing good protection against external factors helps the luminaire to have a long life. Water, dust or other harmful substances can damage the internal components of the luminaire and reduce its performance.
Conformity and Standards: In many countries, luminaires suitable for certain applications are required to comply with certain IP standards. These standards focus on meeting specific requirements for safety and durability.
IP ratings should be considered when selecting luminaires to be used outdoors or in industrial environments. This is important to ensure the long-term performance and safety of the luminaires.
