Created on 01.21

5 points you need to know about difference of IK06 ,IK08 and IK10

If you specify, install, or purchase industrial or outdoor lighting, electrical enclosures, or public-facing equipment, you've likely encountered the IK code. But what do these numbers really mean for durability and cost? Let's break down the key differences between three common ratings: IK06, IK08, and IK10.

1. It's All About Energy (in Joules) The IK rating (from the IEC 62262 standard) classifies protection against mechanical impacts. The critical difference is the impact energy the enclosure can withstand:

IK06 0.5 joules
IK08 5 joules
IK10 20 joules

2. The "Hammer Test" in Practice Think of it this way: An IK06 housing might survive a tool being dropped nearby. An IK08 fixture can take a direct, forceful strike. An IK10 unit is designed to resist repeated, intentional strikes with heavy objects.

3. Application is King Choosing the right rating is primarily about location and risk:

IK06 (Low Risk)
IK08 (Medium-High Risk) sweet spot for most demanding applications
IK10 (Very High Risk/Vandal-Prone) Non-negotiable for high-risk zones

4. The Cost & Design Trade-Off Higher IK ratings require more robust materials (thicker polycarbonate, reinforced glass, heavier-gauge metal), different mounting systems, and rigorous testing. This translates to a direct increase in product cost and often weight. Specifying IK10 where IK08 would suffice unnecessarily inflates project budgets.

5. The Interplay with IP Ratings Crucially, IK is about physical impact, not water or dust. It works alongside the IP rating. A fixture can be IP65 (dust-tight and waterproof) but only IK06—meaning it's sealed against the elements but vulnerable to a hard knock. Always check both codes for complete protection.

Our product range of IP20 linear/strip battens come with IK06,and IP66 weatherproof battens come with IK08,IP65 bulkheads is IK10.if you need any support,we'd love to help.

#lighting #qisenlighting #IKRating #MechanicalProtection #IndustrialDesign #ElectricalEnclosures #LightingDesign #Engineering #Specification #FacilityManagement #VandalResistance

www.ip65-led.com

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