In addition to the IP value, there is also the term IK value. The “K” in IK value stands for kinetic, or: the IK value indicates the extent to which the fixtures are protected against kinetic energy. Kinetic energy means the energy carried by an object. In simple terms, how impact/impact resistant is the lighting?
Difference between IP value and IK value
The IK value stands for impact resistance, where the IP value stands for the amount of protection against solid objects, moisture and water. Previously, the IK value behind the IP value was expressed as a single number. Today they are two separate terms.
IK values overview
IK values are expressed in the numbers 0 through 10 with 0 being the worst shock resistant. Below is a complete listing of IK values, shown in Joules.
Joule is the unit of energy. A joule is equal to 1 watt for 1 second. Thus, 1 Joule is 1 watt second.
| IK value | Amount of resistance to shock expressed in Joules |
| IK00 | No resistance |
| IK01 | Resistance up to 0.15 Joule |
| IK02 | Resistance up to 0.2 Joule |
| IK03 | Resistance up to 0.35 Joule |
| IK04 | Resistance up to 0.5 Joule |
| IK05 | Resistance up to 0.7 Joule |
| IK06 | Resistance up to 1 Joule |
| IK07 | Resistance up to 2 Joule |
| IK08 | Resistance up to 5 Joule |
| IK09 | Resistance up to 10 Joule |
| IK10 | Resistance up to 20 Joule |
When do you use an impact-resistant fixture?
Impact-resistant fixtures are highly impact-resistant, making them suitable for installation in locations where vandalism is common.