This article explains the real differences between IP65, IP67 and IP68 for outdoor LED lighting systems and helps you choose the right protection level for your application.

When purchasing core components for LED street lights, such as LED lenses, LED connectors, and LED power supplies, we often see different IP ratings specified by the manufacturers. So, understanding IP protection ratings is fundamental to building a solid foundation of technical knowledge in the LED industry.

Based on our experience working with clients, this article mainly introduces the different IP standards relevant to outdoor LED lighting scenarios, which are of particular interest to many.

1. Definition of IP Ratings

IP stands for Ingress Protection. It follows the international standard IEC 60529 (the corresponding Chinese national standard is GB/T 4208) and is used to define the degree of protection provided by electrical equipment enclosures against solid foreign objects (including dust) and liquids (water).

A complete IP code consists of "IP" and two digits, such as IP65 and IP67. Each digit has its own independent and specific meaning.

1.1 Interpretation of the two-digit IP protection rating

1.1.1 the First Digit Meaning

The first digit represents the dust and solid foreign object protection rating (levels 0-6).

It indicates the degree to which the enclosure prevents the ingress of human body parts (such as fingers, tools) and external solid foreign objects (such as dust).

1.1.2 the Second Digit Meaning

The second digit represents the water resistance rating (level 0-9K).

It indicates the degree to which the enclosure protects against harmful water ingress.

1.2 Several points requiring extra attention

•    IP protection rating is an internationally recognized engineering protection standard and a core evaluation indicator in almost all fields involving electronic and electrical equipment and enclosures where dust and water protection are considered. It's not only the LED industry that uses this.

•    LED lighting, due to harsh environmental conditions and high lifespan requirements, places particular emphasis on the definition and testing of IP ratings.

•    In the LED industry, a higher IP rating is not always better. An excessively high sealing rating (such as IP68) may impede air circulation, affecting heat dissipation of high-power LEDs, which in turn can accelerate light decay and shorten lifespan. Well-designed outdoor lighting fixtures strike the optimal balance between protection, heat dissipation, optical performance, and cost.

•    The IP67 waterproof rating has clear and fixed specifications (1 meter, 30 minutes). However, the IP68 waterproof rating requires negotiation and confirmation with the manufacturer. This is the most crucial and often overlooked difference between the two.

•    The IP rating only represents dust and water resistance, and does not directly equate to the product's UV resistance, corrosion resistance (salt spray), temperature resistance (high and low), or impact resistance.

2. Core Technical Differences between IP65, IP66, IP67 and IP68

Generally speaking, outdoor streetlights are rated IP65 or higher. The "6" indicates complete dust protection, while the "5," "6," "7," or "8" simply represent different levels of water resistance.

The following diagram clearly illustrates the core differences between them.

Simply put, IP65 protects against rain and other dynamic water flows, IP66 protects against high-pressure, large volumes of water such as sea waves, IP67 protects against temporary submersion in standing water, and IP68 means the device can operate underwater for extended periods.

Let's take an example., IP65 outdoor waterproof LED strip lights are great for general outdoor use, while IP67 outdoor LED lights are perfect for areas where temporary water submersion is a risk, such as garden lighting or street lights.

3. Outdoor LED Lighting Applications: Which IP Rating Do You Need?

•    For light fixtures under sheltered eaves or canopies, an IP44 rating provides effective protection against splashing water and dust; however, for light fixtures fully exposed in gardens, courtyards, and building exteriors, at least an IP54 rating or preferably an IP65 rating should be chosen to ensure complete dust protection and resistance to direct rainfall.

•    In commercial and public outdoor areas, lighting facilities face even more stringent challenges. For example, streetlights and high-mast lights in squares are recommended to have an IP65/IP66 rating to withstand strong winds and heavy rain; ground-mounted lights that are susceptible to flooding must meet the IP67 rating to ensure they can withstand temporary submersion.

•    For completely submerged or extreme environments, the IP rating requirements are the most stringent. For instance, light fixtures in swimming pools and water features must have an IP68 rating, and it is essential to verify the specific test depth and duration with the manufacturer. In special locations such as food processing plants requiring high-temperature and high-pressure cleaning, a specialized protection rating like IP69K is necessary.

For outdoor LED lighting fixtures, the core component that requires waterproofing is the LED module. The components within the LED module that provide waterproofing include the LED lens, LED power supply, LED connecting wires, and waterproof gasket.

In short, an IP65-rated LED module is sufficient for typical outdoor applications.

(Please refer to previous articles for the components of an LED module.)

4. FAQ

Q1: Is IP68 always better than IP67?

A: As we mentioned earlier, blindly choosing IP68 protection can not only lead to unnecessary cost increases but also affect the heat dissipation efficiency of the luminaires due to excessive sealing, thus shortening the LED lifespan. For most outdoor lighting applications, IP65 or IP67 is a sufficient and optimal choice. Only when the luminaire truly needs to be completely submerged for extended periods is choosing an IP68 product correct and necessary.

Q2: Can IP67 waterproof rating lights be used outdoors in heavy rain?

A: Yes, it can be used normally. The IP67-rated fixture has sufficient sealing performance to withstand any level of rain, hail, and melting snow.

Q3: What does IP68 water resistant rating really mean in practice?

A: IP68 rating indicates that the device is designed and certified to operate reliably under specific conditions of continuous immersion in water. However, in practical applications, you should also inquire with the manufacturer about the specific test parameters, such as the test water depth, duration, temperature, and pressure conditions, to make an informed decision.

Q4: Is IP65 ok for outdoor lights?

A:Yes, for most common outdoor scenarios such as roads, balconies, and building facades, IP65 is a perfectly acceptable and commonly used standard. However, for luminaires installed at low positions, potentially exposed to standing water, or those that are recessed (buried), we strongly recommend upgrading the standard to IP67 or IP68.

Q5: Can IP67 products be upgraded to IP68?

A: This is not achievable. Whether a product can achieve IP67 or IP68 rating is determined by its original design. After the product leaves the factory, it is virtually impossible for the user or installer to effectively "upgrade the rating."

Selecting the correct IP rating improves system reliability, reduces maintenance costs, and ensures long-term performance.

We Sunshineopto offer a selection of LED lighting accessories suitable for various applications. If you need help selecting the right waterproof level for your outdoor LED lighting project, feel free to contact our technical team.

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