What are the IP Rating & IC Rating of LED Downlights?
IP (Ingress Protection) Rating and Meaning
An IP rating consists of two digits. These digits represent protection levels against solids and liquids:
- 1st digit: Protection against ingress of solids
- 2nd digit: Protection against ingress of liquids
The higher the value of each digit, the greater the protection. Here's a breakdown specific to LED downlights:
| IP | 1st Digit (Solids) | 2nd Digit (Liquids) |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | No protection | No protection |
| 1 | Protected against solid objects over 50mm | Protected against vertically falling water drops |
| 2 | Protected against solid objects over 12.5mm | Protected against direct water sprays up to 15° from vertical |
| 3 | Protected against solid objects over 2.5mm | Protected against water sprays up to 60° from vertical |
| 4 | Protected against solid objects over 1.0mm | Protected against water splashes from any direction |
| 5 | Limited protection against dust ingress | Protected against low-pressure water jets from any direction |
| 6 | Fully dust-tight | Protected against high-pressure water jets |
| 7 | N/A | Protected against short-term immersion in water |
IC (Insulation Contact) Rating and Meaning
IC ratings define the safety and compatibility of LED downlights with insulation materials. According to AS/NZS60598.2.2, these are the classifications:
| Classification | Icon | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| NON-IC | - | Not allowed to have any insulation within 100mm |
| CA135 |  |
Must not be covered by insulation but may abut the luminaire |
| IC |  |
Safe to be covered and abutted by insulation rated to 90°C |
| IC-F |  |
Fully insulated and resistant to external matter ingress |