The Ultimate Guide on IP Ratings in Outdoor Stage Light
When it comes to setting up an outdoor event, choosing the right equipment is crucial. As an event planner or lighting technician, Except for intelligence, lighting effect, and durability, the IP rating, or waterproofness, is one of the most important factors to consider in selecting outdoor stage lights.
What Are IP Ratings?
IP, or Ingress Protection, ratings are a standardised measure used to indicate the degree of protection an electrical device has against solids and liquids. These ratings are essential for outdoor stage lights because they determine how well the lights can perform in various environmental conditions.
In essence, the IP rating tells you how resistant your equipment is to dust, dirt, and water, which is vital for ensuring longevity and consistent performance in outdoor settings.
Structure of IP Ratings
IP ratings are typically formatted as IP followed by two digits, such as IP65 or IP67. Each digit represents a different type of protection:
- First Digit (0-6): Indicates the level of protection against solid particles like dust.
- Second Digit (0-9): Indicates the level of protection against liquid ingress, such as water.
Breakdown of IP Ratings
First Digit | Protection Level | Protection against Solid Particles |
0 | None | No protection against contact or ingress of objects. |
1 | >50mm | Protected against solid objects over 50mm (e.g., hands). |
2 | >12.5mm | Protected against solid objects over 12.5mm (e.g., fingers). |
3 | >2.5mm | Protected against solid objects over 2.5mm (e.g., tools). |
4 | >1mm | Protected against solid objects over 1mm (e.g., wires). |
5 | Dust-protected | Limited ingress of dust is permitted. |
6 | Dust-tight | No ingress of dust; complete protection against contact. |
Second Digit | Protection Level | protection against MOISTURE |
0 | None | No protection against water. |
1 | Dripping water | Protected against vertically dripping water. |
2 | Dripping water (15°) | Protected against vertically dripping water when tilted up to 15°. |
3 | Spraying water | Protected against water sprayed at an angle up to 60° from vertical. |
4 | Splashing water | Protected against water splashing from any direction. |
5 | Water jets | Protected against water jets from any direction. |
6 | Powerful water jets | Protected against powerful water jets from any direction. |
7 | Immersion (up to 1m) | Protected against immersion in water up to 1 meter depth. |
8 | Immersion (beyond 1m) | Protected against continuous immersion in water beyond 1 meter. |
9 | High-temperature jets | Protected against high-temperature water jets. |
Example:
IP Rating | Solid Protection | Liquid Protection |
IP65 Dust tight Water jets |
IP66 protection against powerful water jets |
IP67 Dust tight Immersion up to 1 meter |
IP68 Dust tight Continuous immersion in water |
IP69 Dust-tight High-pressure, high-temperature water jets |
Understanding these ratings can help you choose the right outdoor stage light for your specific needs. For example, an IP66 waterproof light, like a moving beam light, is ideal for events where the equipment might be exposed to powerful water jets or heavy rain.
How to Choose the Right Outdoor Stage Lights for Your Event Needs
Event Type and Location
The type of event and its location play a significant role in determining the appropriate IP rating for your outdoor stage lights.
For concerts or festivals held in open fields, like a city light show or water music party, higher IP ratings like IP66 or IP67 are recommended to ensure the lights can withstand potential rain and dust.
For theatre productions under a tent, a lower IP rating might suffice, as the equipment will be somewhat shielded from direct exposure to the elements.
Weather Conditions
Consider the typical weather conditions in the area where your event will take place. If you expect frequent rain or the possibility of a sudden downpour, opting for lights with a higher IP rating, such as IP67 or IP68, will provide better protection and ensure uninterrupted performance. Conversely, in arid regions with minimal rainfall, an IP65 rating might be sufficient.
Budget Considerations
Balancing cost and protection is another critical aspect when choosing outdoor stage lights. Higher IP-rated lights generally cost more due to their enhanced protective features. However, investing in lights with the appropriate IP rating can save money in the long run by reducing the risk of damage and the need for frequent replacements.
It’s essential to assess the level of protection required for your specific event and allocate your budget accordingly.
waterproof stage light
Light Sky: Your Source for Waterproof Stage Lights
When it comes to reliable and durable waterproof stage lights, Light Sky is a trusted name in the industry. We offer a series of stage lighting gadgets that can handle different environments. This year, we rolled out the new outdoor stage light series, which has its ingress protection upgraded.
For more information about Light Sky outdoor stage lighting, visit our website.
