COB LED strips have gained immense popularity due to their compact design and high-quality light output. Beyond their technical specifications, their physical attributes also play a significant role in determining their applicability and ease of installation. In this segment, let's delve into the crucial physical attributes of COB LED strips.
Physical Attributes
1. Strip Length and Width
- Strip Length: COB LED strips typically come in standard lengths, which can range from 1 meter to 5 meters or more. However, many strips are designed to be cut at specific intervals, allowing users to customize the length according to their project requirements.
- Strip Width: The width of the strip usually depends on the LED density and design. Common widths can range from as narrow as 2mm to broader designs exceeding 10mm. The chosen width can affect the installation method and the strip's visual appearance when illuminated.
2. Type of Adhesive Backing (if any)
COB LED strips often feature an adhesive backing to facilitate easy installation. The most common type is:
- 3M Adhesive: This is a popular choice due to its reliable stickiness and longevity. The adhesive's strength ensures the strip remains in place, even when subjected to external forces or temperature fluctuations.
Some COB strips might come without adhesive, requiring alternative mounting methods, such as clips or channels.
3. Flexibility and Bend Radius
- Flexibility: One of the notable advantages of COB LED strips is their flexibility. This attribute allows them to conform to various surfaces, including curves and corners, broadening their application spectrum.
- Bend Radius: While these strips are flexible, they do have a limit to how much they can bend without damaging the LEDs or the circuitry. The bend radius indicates the smallest curve the strip can safely make. For most COB LED strips, this radius is quite small, enabling them to navigate tight corners and intricate designs.
4. Waterproofing or IP Rating
The Ingress Protection (IP) rating indicates the strip's resistance to both solid objects (like dust) and liquids:
- IP20: Typically for indoor use, these strips are not water-resistant.
- IP65: Features a protective covering, making the strip resistant to dust and light water jets, suitable for areas with occasional moisture.
- IP67: Completely sealed against dust and can be immersed in water up to a meter for 30 minutes, making them ideal for outdoor use in most conditions.
- IP68: Suitable for continuous submersion in water, these are often used for pool lighting or other underwater applications.
Conclusion
The physical attributes of COB LED strips determine their versatility, durability, and applicability. Whether you're aiming for a seamless indoor ambiance or a robust outdoor installation, understanding these attributes ensures a successful and enduring lighting solution. As with any lighting product, ensuring compatibility between the strip's physical properties and the project's requirements will yield the best results.
