What do the different IK ratings mean?
A luminaire’s resistance to external impacts, such as blows or shocks, is classified using an international rating system: the IK rating.
Vandal resistance classification
The scale ranges from IK00 to IK11, where IK00 offers no specific protection against vandalism. Conversely, a luminaire rated IK11 must withstand a direct impact of 50 Joules.
The SS-EN 60068-2-75 standard describes the testing procedure for verifying a luminaire’s resistance to external force.
Typically, IK11 (50 Joules) is specified as the highest value. This corresponds to a 10 kg weight dropped from a height of half a meter. This test is performed three consecutive times.
IK ratings in practice
The basic IK11 classification is well-suited for a wide range of applications. However, there is a need for enhanced protection in particularly vulnerable environments. Malux vandal-resistant luminaires are delivered with very high impact resistance; we have chosen to call this concept IK11+.
IK10, 20J
We refer to a luminaire that can withstand between 20J and 80J as Impact Resistant.
Enhanced impact resistance, capable of withstanding minor blows and shocks.
IK11+, 80J
We refer to a luminaire that can withstand 80J or more as Vandal-resistant.
Very high impact resistance, capable of withstanding blows and kicks with objects such as wooden sticks, hockey sticks, etc.
IK11, 50J
Very high impact resistance, capable of withstanding blows and kicks as well as impacts from footballs, floorball balls, etc.
IK11++, 150J
Extremely high impact resistance, capable of withstanding heavy blows from hammers, thrown stones, etc.