LED Strip Light Thermal Management
Effective thermal management is vital for LED strip performance and longevity. Explore why temperature control, quality components, and proper ventilation are crucial for any lighting project.
Thanks to technological innovations and greater product diversity, LED lighting continues to gain popularity for all applications. LED strip lights benefit from this; they are extremely versatile thanks to their flexible form factor and smaller physical footprint. Their adaptability makes them suitable for accent lighting, task lighting, or large-scale architectural projects. But before you decide to use them in your next project, be sure you’ve considered the critical role of LED strip light thermal management, or in simpler words, temperature control.
The Impact of Heat on LED Longevity
LED lights are known for producing higher lumens per watt over an exceptionally long lifetime. Many products claim to have 50,000 hours of use before falling below 70 percent of the lumen maintenance levels. But, this lifetime is dramatically reduced when LEDs are exposed to elevated temperatures.
In an LED lifespan experiment, the Lighting Research Center researchers tested two identical LEDs for 10,000 hours. Both LEDs were driven at the same current, but one had a junction temperature of 11°C (51.8°F) higher than the other. They found that the higher temperature LED had reduced functional life by more than 50%. This highlights the importance of careful placement and effective thermal management, especially in places with changing or extreme temperatures, like outdoor setups or industrial areas.
Key Temperatures to Monitor for Your LED System
There are two main types of temperature to consider when determining the best place to install your LED products: Ambient Temperature and Operating Temperature.
- Ambient Temperature (Environmental Temperature): This is essentially the temperature range that is safe for your product to be used within a specific environment.
- Operating Temperature (Case Temperature): This is the temperature range your physical product will reach on its surface.
Understanding your strip light’s ambient temperature range will ensure that you don’t install it in an environment that is too hot or cold for its operation. Knowing your strip light’s operating temperature will help you ensure that your LED system is operating correctly and isn’t overheating.
When you install LEDs in small, enclosed spaces, be aware of airflow. Poor ventilation can cause heat to build up, even if the surrounding temperature seems safe. This is especially important for under-cabinet lighting, recessed fixtures, and other tight installations
On the other hand, it is important to consider all sources of excess heat in any LED lighting project. The quality of the components and the system also plays an important role.
Thermal Management Tips for LED Strip Lights
Being aware of the temperature of your LED strip lights depends on many factors that can affect their lifespan. While products like aluminum channels can help you drastically reduce your strip's operating temperature, the most important thing is the quality of the lights themselves and the components that were used to make them, e.g., heat, sinks, overall chip design, and even the thickness of the strip's circuit board.
Thankfully, there are testing agencies and certifications you can look for to ensure product quality. UL and ETL listings certify that a product has met rigorous safety standards, while the Illuminating Engineering Society’s LM testing (LM-79, LM-80, etc.) uses EPA-recognized laboratories to measure numerous factors, including luminous efficacy and thermal management. Government agencies use these indicators to help provide quality assurance for consumers.
Get Expert Help from Flexfire LEDs
When choosing the right LED strip lights and ensuring their optimal performance, having expert guidance can make all the difference. At Flexfire LEDs, we don’t just provide high-quality lighting products; we offer personalized support to help you achieve stunning and reliable lighting solutions for any project. Whether you’re tackling a DIY home upgrade, designing a commercial space, or managing a large-scale industrial installation, our team is here to ensure your success.
From selecting the perfect LED strip to mastering thermal management and installation, we’re just a call, chat, or email away. Let our knowledgeable team simplify your decision-making process and see how we can turn your vision into reality!
