When shopping for stage or event lighting, you’ll often see terms like IP20, IP44, or IP65. These numbers tell you how well a fixture is protected from dust and moisture. Understanding these ratings ensures that you select the right lights for various environments.
What Is the IP Rating System?
Source: https://www.iec.ch/ip-ratings
The IP (Ingress Protection) rating system, also the Ingress Protection Code, is an international standard defined by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC).
The IP (Ingress Protection) rating system tells you how protected a fixture is against solid particles (like dust) and liquids (like water). The rating has two numbers:
- First Digit: Protection against solid objects (0-6).
- Second Digit: Protection against liquids (0-9).
If you see an “X” instead of a number, it means that feature hasn’t been tested.
What Is IP65?
Source: https://www.iec.ch/basecamp/ingress-protection-ip-ratings-guide
An IP65 rating specifically means:
- First Digit (6): Dust-tight. The enclosure is fully protected against the ingress of dust. No dust can enter the fixture, even after prolonged exposure.
- Second Digit (5): Protection against water jets. The fixture can withstand water jets from any direction, making it suitable for use in environments where it might be exposed to rain or splashes.
When Should You Use IP65 Stage Lighting?
You need IP65 lights when your stage lighting fixtures will be exposed to:
- Rain or wet conditions.
- Dusty environments.
- Outdoor stages or concerts.
- Poolside events or waterfront shows.
Here are some examples:
- Outdoor Concerts: Protect against rain and dust.
- Festival Stages: Withstand splashes and moisture.
- Waterfront Events: Keep lighting safe from water exposure.
- Open-Air Theaters: Keep fixtures dry and working.
IP65 vs IP44 vs IP20
| Rating | Solid Protection | Liquid Protection | Limitations |
| IP20 | Objects larger than 12.5mm | None | No protection against moisture or dust. |
| IP44 | Objects larger than 1mm | Water splashes from all directions | Not suitable for direct exposure to heavy rain or water jets. |
| IP65 | Dust-tight | Water jets from any direction | Not suitable for submersion in water. |
While IP20-rated fixtures are limited to indoor environments and are not protected against moisture, IP65 fixtures offer enhanced protection for outdoor use.
IP20: Provides basic protection against solid objects (larger than 12.5mm) but offers no protection against liquids. It's best for indoor stages, nightclubs, and conference rooms where there's no exposure to rain or high humidity.
IP44: Provides a moderate level of protection for areas exposed to light moisture, making it a good choice for covered outdoor settings or places where water splashes are likely.
IP65: Offers both dust-tight protection and resistance to water jets, making it ideal for outdoor use in rain, dust, and high humidity conditions, commonly found in concert stages, theaters, and festival venues.
Why Choose IP65 Stage Lights?
Water Resistance: The "5" in the IP65 rating means the fixture can withstand water jets from any direction, making it suitable for environments prone to rain, snow, or high humidity.
1. Dust Protection: The "6" indicates the light is completely dust-tight, ensuring that no dust or debris will enter the light and damage its components.
2. Durability: Ideal for outdoor lighting, construction sites, or event spaces where moisture and dust are prevalent.
Popular IP65 Stage Lighting Options from Shehds:
Waterproof LED 350W 12-Pixel Strobe Lighting – versatile strobe effects with weatherproof casing
Waterproof LED 1000W RGB Strobe Moving Head Lighting – powerful strobe effects with full waterproof protection
IP65 LED 18x10W Wash Wall Lighting – vibrant wall washes for outdoor stages
When IP65 Is Not Necessary
While IP65 provides excellent protection, it’s not needed in all environments. Here are some instances when IP20 or other lower ratings would suffice:
Indoor Stages: If the space is climate-controlled with no exposure to moisture or dust.
Nightclubs or Bars: These environments are usually dry and temperature-controlled, so lower IP ratings like IP20 are often more than adequate.
Conference Rooms and Ballrooms: Typically shielded from moisture and dust, these spaces don’t require high levels of protection.
Common Questions About IP Ratings
Many professionals have misconceptions about the protection levels provided by IP ratings:
Are IP65-rated lights fully waterproof?
Outdoor stage lighting often has an IP65 rating. IP65 lights can withstand water jets but are not designed to be submerged in water. For complete submersion, an IP68 rating is needed.
Is IP20 sufficient for all indoor environments?
IP20-rated lights offer minimal protection, making them unsuitable for environments with high dust, humidity, or accidental water exposure.
Are IP65 fixtures too expensive for small events?
Reality: While IP65-rated lights may have a higher initial cost, they are designed to last longer and require less maintenance, making them a wise investment for outdoor or challenging environments.
Is IP44 or IP65 better?
IP65 is generally better for outdoor environments as it offers both dust-tight protection and water jet resistance, making it ideal for harsh weather conditions.
IP44 is suitable for areas with mild moisture exposure, but doesn't provide the same level of protection against water jets.
Which is better, IP65 or IP67?
For complete water protection, IP67 is the better choice. It can withstand submersion in water up to a depth of 1 meter for 30 minutes.
IP65, on the other hand, offers water jet resistance but isn’t designed for immersion.
What IP rating is 100% waterproof?
The IP68 rating is considered 100% waterproof for most practical purposes. IP68 means that the fixture can be submerged in water beyond 1 meter for extended periods without damage. This is ideal for underwater or highly wet environments.
IP65 Lighting Maintenance Tips
Even with IP65 protection, proper maintenance is necessary to keep fixtures running smoothly:
1. Regular Cleaning: Clean the exterior to remove dust, dirt, and water buildup.
2. Inspect Seals: Ensure that the seals around the fixture are intact and that no moisture is entering.
3. Check Connections: Ensure that wiring and electrical components are properly sealed to prevent damage from water or dust.
Closing Words
IP65 lighting is an essential choice for outdoor and industrial environments where protection from dust and moisture is critical. Whether you’re setting up for a rainy concert, festival, or open-air theater, choosing IP65-rated lights ensures that your equipment will perform reliably, no matter the weather.
If you're setting up a performance or event where durability and protection are priorities, explore our range of IP65-rated lighting options to ensure your lights stay safe and operational.
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