IK Rating – Impact Protection Explained
What Is IK Rating?
The IK rating (also known as impact protection rating) is an international standard defined by IEC 62262, which indicates how well an electrical enclosure — such as a luminaire — is protected against mechanical impacts from the outside.
While the IP rating focuses on protection against dust and water, the IK rating shows how resistant a product is to physical shocks, impacts, or vandalism. Both ratings together give a complete picture of a product’s durability in demanding environments.
Why IK Rating Matters in Industrial Lighting
In industrial and public spaces, luminaires are often exposed to mechanical stress — from tools, moving equipment, debris, or even intentional impact. Choosing the right IK class ensures that the luminaire:
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continues to operate reliably even after mechanical shocks
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maintains its IP rating and internal protection after impact
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provides long-term safety and performance in harsh conditions
For industrial lighting solutions like those from I-Valo, the IK classification is an essential part of ensuring long-lasting and safe operation in challenging environments.
How IK Ratings Are Tested
IK ratings are determined through standardised impact tests defined by IEC 62262. During the test:
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The luminaire or enclosure is struck with a hammer or weight that delivers a defined impact energy (in joules).
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Impacts are applied to several points on the enclosure.
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The product must withstand the impact without significant damage or loss of functionality.
The result is a clear classification from IK00 (no protection) up to IK10 (very high impact resistance).
IK Rating Chart (IEC 62262)
| IK Code | Impact Energy (J) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| IK00 | – | No protection. |
| IK01 | 0.14 J | Very low protection. |
| IK02 | 0.20 J | Resistant to a 0.25 kg object dropped from 8 cm. |
| IK03 | 0.35 J | Resistant to a 0.25 kg object dropped from 14 cm. |
| IK04 | 0.50 J | Protection against low impacts. Resistant to a 0.25 kg object dropped from 20 cm. |
| IK05 | 0.70 J | Resistant to a 0.25 kg object dropped from 28 cm. |
| IK06 | 1 J | Protection against 1 J impacts, equivalent to a 0.25 kg object dropped from 40 cm. |
| IK07 | 2 J | Resistant to a 0.5 kg object dropped from 40 cm. |
| IK08 | 5 J | Resistant to a 1.7 kg object dropped from 30 cm. |
| IK09 | 10 J | Resistant to a 5 kg object dropped from 20 cm. |
| IK10 | 20 J | Protection against serious impacts. Resistant to a 5 kg object dropped from 40 cm. |
I-Valo Luminaires and IK Classification
I-Valo luminaires are built to endure the demanding conditions of industrial environments. Our products are designed and tested to meet IK ratings ranging from IK07 to IK10, depending on the model. This means that I-Valo luminaires withstand impacts from 2 J to 20 J — providing reliable operation even in spaces where mechanical stress, vibration, or debris are common.
For I-Valo luminaires, the IP rating is typically more critical because they are designed for challenging industrial environments where dust, moisture, and other contaminants are common. Due to their high installation heights and the fact that they are typically installed in fenced industrial areas rather than public spaces, our luminaires rarely face vandalism. Instead, our focus is on robust construction and mechanical strength to ensure they can withstand the stresses of industrial applications rather than deliberate impacts.
Combined with our unique filter technology and high IP ratings, I-Valo lighting solutions deliver exceptional durability and long service life in even the most challenging conditions.
Recommended IK Ratings by Application
| Environment | Recommended IK Rating |
|---|---|
| Indoor, low-impact areas | IK04 – IK06 |
| Industrial environments | IK07 – IK08 |
| Public spaces, vandalism risk | IK08 – IK10 |
| Heavy industry and outdoor areas | IK09 – IK10 |
What is IEC 62262?
What is IEC 60068-2-75?
Summary
The IK rating is an important indicator of a luminaire’s mechanical strength. Together with the IP rating, it helps you choose lighting that is truly fit for its environment.
With over 50 years of experience in industrial lighting, I-Valo Oy offers luminaires with IK07–IK10 impact resistance, ensuring reliable performance, safety, and longevity even in the harshest industrial conditions.