[POLL] COB LED Lifetime? Installation and service ...

Author: Minnie

Sep. 30, 2024

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[POLL] COB LED Lifetime? Installation and service ...

 

After finally installing the COB LEDs, I attached them to an aluminum L-profile (approximately 20mm x 10mm and 1.5mm thick). I positioned the strips on the 20mm side.

Everything is functioning correctly. After warming up, they draw about 1.2A (max <1.5A) at 12V, which translates to around 15W per strip (max <20W).

Not surprisingly, the strip's end where the wires are soldered is the hottest point. Since I needed two strips, I placed the soldering ends adjacent to each other at the center of the aluminum profile. This arrangement minimized the amount of wire required. I created a small Y cable to connect the two strips:

                                  12VDC PSU
                                                   I
                                                   I
XXXXXX LED XXXXXXXXXXX----- Y wire----XXXXXX LED XXXXXXXXXXX

I operated the LEDs for two to three hours. Upon my return, I touched the middle of the aluminum profile where the Y cable's center is located. The result was that I could hold my finger on it, but it felt very hot to me, estimated at around 40-50°C. Based on the specifications: LED Chip < 115°C, Aluminum bar <70°C, silicone glue <90°C. Thus, everything seems to be acceptable...
Interestingly, both ends of the strips on the opposite side (not the soldering end) were cold.

The ambient temperature was approximately 20°C.

Comparing the strip's cold state to its hot state, I observed no discoloration or any LED issues.

What are your thoughts??

I might consider adding a resistor in series since the light output exceeds my needs; but having extra light can be beneficial...

PS: I am tempted to conduct an experiment by operating the LEDs this way to investigate potential outcomes.
PSS: If you are interested, I can take some measurements with a thermocouple.

Thank you in advance!

An officer at the German customs warned me that these Chinese LEDs could cause house fires, so I must be cautious. I finally installed the strips, sticking them to an aluminum L-profile (about 20mm x 10mm and 1.5mm thick), positioned on the 20mm side. Everything works. They draw about 1.2A after warming up (<1.5A max)@12V, roughly 15W (<20W MAX) each strip. The end of the strip where the wires are soldered is, of course, the hottest spot. Since I required two, I placed the two soldering ends close together at the center of the aluminum profile. This arrangement minimized the amount of wire needed; I created a Y cable and soldered the two strips. Something like this: 12VDC PSU XXXXX LED XXXXXXXXXXX----- Y wire----XXXXXX LED XXXXXXXXXXX I left the LED running for 2-3 hours. When I returned, I touched the center of the aluminum profile, right where the Y cable's center is: I found I could hold my finger on it, but it was still quite hot, perhaps at 40-50°C. According to the specifications, LED Chip < 115°C, Aluminum bar <70°C, silicone glue <90°C, so this should be fine. Interestingly, the strip end on the opposite side (not the soldering end) remained cool. The ambient temperature was around 20°C, again my estimate. Comparing the cold state to the hot state, I observed no discoloration or any LED issues. What do you think?? Maybe I will add a resistor in series, as the light output is significantly higher than I need, but it's nice to have that flexibility... PS: I considered running the LEDs like this for an experiment, and I am curious to see what will happen. PSS: If anyone is interested, I can perform some measurements with a thermocouple.... Thank you in advance!

With competitive pricing and timely delivery, Getian sincerely hopes to be your supplier and partner.

COB LEDs: What Are They and When Should You Use Them?

Do you want to illuminate a section of your room? LED strips are renowned for their ability to define spaces and follow certain designs, giving them prominence. When used correctly, they can drastically alter a space to create visually stunning effects.

 

However, there are occasions when conventional LED strips fail to deliver the desired effect, especially when the points that make up the strip become visible on reflective surfaces, even with a diffuser. In such cases, COB LED strips become a perfect solution.

 

                                                    Project: MYCSA | Interior design: EMMME STUDIO | Photographer: Lupe Clemente

What is a COB LED Strip?

A COB LED strip closely resembles a traditional strip but has one key difference: it consists of numerous tiny chips.

 

“COB” stands for Chip On Board, which means several chips are integrated into the strip itself. These usually consist of LED lights grouped together, coated in yellow phosphor to create a uniform appearance without visible "seams" from different light sources.

 

Advantages and Disadvantages of COB LED Strips

In which scenarios is it advisable to use COB LED strips? Similar to traditional LED strips, this format offers continuous lighting and an enveloping aesthetic for the space in which it is used.

 

There are times when we wish to illuminate a reflective surface. If we choose a conventional LED strip, the visible points on the strip become evident. To avoid this irregularity and achieve a uniform glow, it is more effective to use COB LED strips, where these dots are undetectable.

 

Another advantage of COB LED strips is their ability to simultaneously reduce energy consumption by approximately 30-40% or provide over 30% more luminous output with the same energy usage.

 

Moreover, one significant benefit of continuous light is it can be used more effectively with a transparent diffuser. In contrast, standard LED strips usually require opal diffusers to avoid light spots.

 

In summary, here are the main differences compared to other light types:

 

  • LED continuous line.

  • Typically, they have lower energy consumption and higher luminous output.

  • They possess a longer lifespan.

  • They are more eco-friendly, as they do not contain mercury.

  • More effective with a transparent diffuser.

 

On the downside, since they comprise more chips per meter, the cost tends to be higher. It is ultimately your choice to decide if you want to create an entirely enveloping ambience, especially when working with reflective materials.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About COB LED Strips

 

At this point, you likely have questions regarding COB LED strips as you evaluate if it's the right option for your project. Let's address them!

Interested in more details on Buy 12W High CRI COB LED? Feel free to reach out to us.

 

Which is better: LED strips with or without COB?

 

The answer depends on the overall aesthetic outcome you wish to achieve: with COB LED strips, you can achieve a seamless effect without visible light points (ideal for reflective surfaces).

 

Regardless of your decision, ensure you check the material quality, as LED strips come in various qualities. If you choose a lower-quality strip, there's a risk it may break when twisted to fit a particular space.

 

How can I determine if a COB LED strip is of good quality?

 

Focus on three main characteristics:

  • Strip thickness: It should have at least two layers, ideally three. More layers imply more copper, which reduces overheating risks.

  • Adhesive tape: To ensure durability and prevent breakage upon impact, verify the tape brand and quality.

  • Chip quality: Ensure the encapsulation of the chips is intact.

 

How much power does a COB LED strip consume?

 

To determine its power consumption, check its specifications. The COB designation does not affect its energy usage.

 

How can I install it?

 

COB LED strips are typically more delicate due to the abundance of chips. Therefore, it is advisable to have them installed by a qualified professional who can handle them with care.

 

What is the lifespan of COB LED strips?

 

Once again, this largely depends on strip quality... However, remember that LED lights generally have extended lifespans. In fact, our strips boast a lifespan exceeding 40,000 hours (and after this duration, they retain 80% of their brightness).



As demonstrated, COB LED strips are perfect for meticulous professionals looking to create an enveloping atmosphere without compromising on reflective materials.

 

                            Project: Refurbishment in Valladolid | Interior design: Estudio Bespoke | Photographer: César Prados

 

At FARO Barcelona, you can explore various options to incorporate these strips into your project, including the tunable white COB LED strip, allowing regulation of temperature and intensity.

 

Another compelling option, especially for entertainment and commercial spaces, is the COB RGB LED, enabling playful color combinations.

 

This article has covered some of the most frequently asked questions. If you have any further inquiries, don't hesitate to reach out for assistance in your decision-making process!

 

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