IK Testing
IK ratings are defined as IK and a number from 00 to 10, which indicates the degree of protection provided by the electrical enclosures against external mechanical impacts.
IK Ratings (or impact protection ratings) are now the international standard for an enclosure around electrical equipment. IK Ratings were originally outlined in 1995 by the European standard BS EN 50102 and were later amended in 1997 with IEC 60068-2-75. This was then followed up in 2002 with the European standard EN62262 which is the equivalent of the international standard IEC 62262 (2002).
An IK Rating depicts the way the enclosures should be mounted for the tests to be carried out, even atmospheric conditions, how many impacts should be made (which is based on size of enclosure) and even distribution of the impacts, the size, style, dimensions and even material of the various types of hammer (object) designed to produce the energy levels required. This is then measured in joules.
High IK-rated products are used in areas where products are likely to be exposed to damage or high impact, such as industrial areas, high traffic areas, public access areas, prisons, schools, street luminaires, and railway infrastructure.
Impact Tests Characteristics (Joules Spectrum):
IK00: No protection (0 Joules)
IK01: 0.14 Joules (0.25 kg dropped from 56 mm)
IK02: 0.20 Joules (0.25 kg dropped from 80 mm)
IK03: 0.35 Joules (0.25 kg dropped from 140 mm)
IK04: 0.50 Joules (0.25 kg dropped from 200 mm)
IK05: 0.70 Joules (0.25 kg dropped from 280 mm)
IK06: 1.00 Joule (0.25 kg dropped from 400 mm)
IK07: 2.00 Joules (0.50 kg dropped from 400 mm)
IK08: 5.00 Joules (1.70 kg dropped from 300 mm)
IK09: 10.0 Joules (5.00 kg dropped from 200 mm)
IK10: 20.0 Joules (5.00 kg dropped from 400 mm)
Equipment & Methodologies
At KC India Test Laboratories LLP, we use calibrated free-fall drop hammers, spring hammers, and pendulum impact hammer apparatus to test enclosures, luminaires, solar panels, and smart meters. The enclosure is examined for cracking, structural deformation, and ingress protection integrity after mechanical impact.