IK Testing
Scopes & Testing
IK Testing
IK Testing
IK testing, also known as Impact Protection testing, is a standard test used to determine the resistance of an enclosure or housing to impact from mechanical impacts or blows. The IK rating is an internationally recognized classification system defined by the International Electro technical Commission (IEC) in the standard IEC 62262.
The IK rating is represented by the letters "IK" followed by two digits. Each digit in the IK code has a specific meaning:
First Digit (Protection against impact energy):
0: No protection against impact.
1: Protection against impacts with an energy level of 0.15 joules. This is equivalent to the impact of a 0.25 kg mass dropped from a height of 15 cm.
2: Protection against impacts with an energy level of 0.2 joules. This is equivalent to the impact of a 0.5 kg mass dropped from a height of 20 cm.
3: Protection against impacts with an energy level of 0.35 joules. This is equivalent to the impact of a 0.5 kg mass dropped from a height of 35 cm.
4: Protection against impacts with an energy level of 0.5 joules. This is equivalent to the impact of a 1.7 kg mass dropped from a height of 20 cm.
5: Protection against impacts with an energy level of 2 joules. This is equivalent to the impact of a 5 kg mass dropped from a height of 40 cm.
6: Protection against impacts with an energy level of 5 joules. This is equivalent to the impact of a 10 kg mass dropped from a height of 40 cm.
Second Digit (Additional letter):
The second digit is an optional letter used to provide additional information about the impact protection, such as the material or conditions used for the test.
For example, an enclosure with an IK08 rating means it is protected against impacts with an energy level of 5 joules (first digit: 6) and additional information may be provided by the second digit (e.g., IK08B).
IK testing is commonly performed on products that may be subject to mechanical impacts or vandalism, such as outdoor lighting fixtures, electrical enclosures, traffic signal controllers, and street furniture.
House of Testing Lab can helps manufacturers and consumers understand the level of protection against mechanical impacts a product provides by performing IK Testing, which is especially important for products installed in public spaces or harsh environments. Call us now to get more details.
