The IK rating is a classification of an enclosure’s resistance to mechanical impact, defined by the international standard IEC 62262 and its European equivalent EN 62262. It is written as “IK” followed by two digits – from IK00 (no protection) to IK10 (the highest protection) – and indicates the maximum impact energy the enclosure can withstand without losing functionality or structural integrity. For example, IK07 corresponds to 2 J, while IK10 corresponds to 20 J.
The standard specifies the test methods – including the force, direction and location of impact – so that results are consistent and comparable. Tests are carried out with standardized tools (steel balls or hammers) striking specific points from defined heights.
High IK ratings are essential for devices used in public spaces, transportation and industry, such as ticket machines, information kiosks, advertising totems, outdoor devices, HMI panels and self-service terminals, where there is a risk of vandalism, accidental impacts or heavy use. Choosing a device with the appropriate IK rating increases its durability, safety and long-term reliability, and EN 62262 compliance is frequently required in high-durability projects.
IK codes and impact energies
| IK code | Impact energy | Test impact (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| IK00 | – | No protection |
| IK01 | 0.14 J | 0.25 kg from 56 mm |
| IK02 | 0.2 J | 0.25 kg from 80 mm |
| IK03 | 0.35 J | 0.25 kg from 140 mm |
| IK04 | 0.5 J | 0.25 kg from 200 mm |
| IK05 | 0.7 J | 0.25 kg from 280 mm |
| IK06 | 1 J | 0.25 kg from 400 mm |
| IK07 | 2 J | 0.5 kg from 400 mm |
| IK08 | 5 J | 1.7 kg from 300 mm |
| IK09 | 10 J | 5 kg from 200 mm |
| IK10 | 20 J | 5 kg from 400 mm |
After the impacts the product has to keep working and must not expose hazardous parts. The rating applies to the configuration that was tested – the same display with a thinner cover glass or a different mounting may not reach it.
How is a high IK rating achieved on a display?
On a display the weak point is the front glass. Common measures are a thicker, tempered or chemically strengthened cover glass, laminated glass or an anti-shatter film that holds fragments together, optical bonding that supports the glass over its whole surface, and a robust bezel and mounting. The touch technology matters too: a PCAP sensor behind thick glass tolerates impacts far better than a resistive panel with a flexible film on the surface.
IK rating vs IP rating
IK and IP ratings describe different properties and are tested separately: the IP rating covers dust and water, the IK rating mechanical impact. Public and outdoor devices usually need both – for example IP65 and IK08 for an outdoor kiosk, or IK10 for vandal-resistant equipment in public transport.
Typical requirements
- IK06–IK07 – indoor industrial and commercial devices.
- IK08 – public kiosks, ticket machines and outdoor terminals.
- IK09–IK10 – vandal-prone locations, public transport and heavy industry.
