Why is IP68 for Ingrades important?
Water ingress is the most common complaint with
ingrade luminaires. With water ingress comes
internal corrosion, unsightly droplets under the glass
and eventual electrical failure. Even IP67 luminaires,
which are claimed to be suitable for exterior use have
frequent water ingress problems.
A common oversight is that normal use of ingrade
luminaires can include periods of temporary
submersion (heavy rains, low lying areas, irrigation,
snow melt, etc). The diagrams (right) show how
water can enter an ingrade luminaire that is not IP68.
IP67 testing does not require the luminaire to be
energized, so there is no heating and cooling effect
on the air pressure inside the luminaire. IP68 testing
does require this type of cyclic pressure testing,
making it a more "real world" test.
That’s why all Lumascape ingrade luminaires are
IP68. We ensure that even during submersion, no
water can enter. In fact, our LS343 is independently
certified to a depth of 36', well beyond common
use, ensuring trouble-free operation over the life of
the luminaire.
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During the normal operation of
an ingrade luminaire, internal air
pressure can reach up to 6 psi. Air
will escape through any available
air-path.
When the luminaire cools down
after switch off, a vacuum is
created inside the luminaire,
which will draw in any moisture
in the environment (water,
humidity) back through the air-
path. This is the start of moisture
accumulation inside the luminaire.
Only an IP68 rating can prevent
this from occurring.
But IP68 is not just about the lid seal, its also
about the wire entry. That is why we invented the
MicroAntiLeach™ wire entry seal.
Please read on below for more information on
Lumascape's MicroAntiLeach™ technology.
MICROANTILEACH™ 100% Sealed, factory installed wire entries
A common point for moisture
ingress in ingrade luminaires is
through the wire entry: The same
pressures that effect the lid seal
also effect the wire entry point.
IP68 MicroAntiLeach ™
cable gland
Stranded wire is treated to
prevent air and moisture from
passing through the wire itself.
That's why every Lumascape
ingrade features MicroAntiLeach™,
Resin filled to prevent air and
moisture from passing through
a factory installed, 100% watertight
the cord or wire insulation
wire entry that blocks moisture
layers.
from entry to the luminaire. Even
if water gets into the stranded
copper, there is no way to get
through into the housing. This unique, compact design has a high pressure resistance, enduring a 30 psi pressure test before it can be used in
a Lumascape luminaire. This is one of many critical engineering considerations Lumascape builds into every ingrade luminaire, ensuring a long
service life.
Whilst MicroAntiLeach™ was developed for ingrade luminaires, this feature can also be found on underwater, and other selected
luminaires. Specify with confidence, knowing your project is protected from the inside out with Lumascape MicroAntiLeach™. Look for the
MicroAntiLeach™ logo on the catalog page.