IK testing, often referred to as Impact Protection testing, is a crucial evaluation process designed to assess the durability of enclosures or housings against mechanical impacts. This testing method follows the internationally recognized IK rating system, which is established by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) under standard IEC 62262.
The IK rating system uses the prefix “IK” followed by two digits, each indicating specific levels of impact resistance:
First Digit (Impact Energy Resistance):
- 0: No impact protection.
- 1: Resistant to impacts with energy of 0.15 joules, similar to a 0.25 kg weight dropped from 15 cm.
- 2: Resistant to impacts with energy of 0.2 joules, akin to a 0.5 kg weight dropped from 20 cm.
- 3: Resistant to impacts with energy of 0.35 joules, equivalent to a 0.5 kg weight dropped from 35 cm.
- 4: Resistant to impacts with energy of 0.5 joules, comparable to a 1.7 kg weight dropped from 20 cm.
- 5: Resistant to impacts with energy of 2 joules, similar to a 5 kg weight dropped from 40 cm.
- 6: Resistant to impacts with energy of 5 joules, equivalent to a 10 kg weight dropped from 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 instance, an enclosure rated IK08 indicates resistance against impacts with an energy level of up to 5 joules (first digit: IK06), and additional specifications may be denoted by the second digit (e.g., IK08B).
IK testing is essential for products exposed to potential mechanical impacts or vandalism, including outdoor lighting fixtures, electrical enclosures, traffic signal controllers, and street furniture.
BONAD offers advanced IK test equipment that enables manufacturers to perform precise IK tests and enhance their products’ resilience against mechanical shocks—particularly vital for installations in public areas or challenging environments. Contact BONAD today for more information on our professional IK test equipment solutions.
