The IP rating, also known as Ingress Protection or International Protection rating, is a standard defined by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that classifies and rates the degree of protection provided by an electrical enclosure against foreign objects (such as dust and water) entering it. The IP rating of IEC 60598, specifically, refers to the IP rating assigned to luminaires - lighting fixtures - designed for various environments.
Understanding the IP Rating System
The IP rating system consists of two digits, with each digit representing a specific level of protection. The first digit indicates the level of protection against solid objects, while the second digit indicates the level of protection against liquids. The higher the number, the greater the level of protection. Let's delve deeper into each digit and its corresponding protection levels.
The First Digit: Protection Against Solid Objects
The first digit in the IP rating of IEC 60598 represents the level of protection provided against solid objects like dust, dirt, and other foreign particles. It ranges from 0 to 6, with each level indicating a different level of protection. For example, an IP rating of 0 means no protection against solid objects, while an IP rating of 6 signifies complete protection against dust and other fine particles.
The Second Digit: Protection Against Liquids
The second digit in the IP rating refers to the level of protection against liquids, including water. Similar to the first digit, the second digit also ranges from 0 to 8. An IP rating of 0 signifies no protection against liquids, while an IP rating of 8 indicates protection against continuous submersion in water beyond a specific depth and duration.
Nina She