A special place in the series of LED light sources is occupied by the so-called LED strip (strip, ruler). They consist of 3 diode LED modules interconnected on one flexible basis. Their use is a universal solution for many situations when it is not possible to install lamps on fixtures. For installation, aluminum profiles for LED strips are most often used .
Designers found successful application in interior lighting solutions. This is a ceiling lighting device in niches, baskets and behind cornices, lighting of suspended ceilings, design of shelves, arches, lighting of stairs and baseboards, accents on individual elements of decor (fireplaces, mirrors), in furniture lighting - wardrobes, ends of glass furniture.
Materials used for the manufacture of profiles
As already mentioned, a profile is required to install an LED strip . Profiles for LED years are made of either polycarbonate or aluminum.
Cheaper is the profile box made of durable plastic - polycarbonate. Its advantage is that it can be any color, transparent or matte, it is very flexible, resistant to temperature extremes, not afraid of mechanical stress and moisture resistant. It is mainly used for lighting devices for offices, trading floors and equipment, in furniture production. A good solution for highlighting sculptures, ice rinks, slides made of ice.
However, experts consider aluminum profiles for LED strips to be the most universal and functional. They are suitable for any type of fixtures both for indoor and outdoor installation, as they are corrosion resistant, suitable for installation in rooms with high humidity, do not emit any harmful fumes. In addition, aluminum removes heat very well, which increases the duration of the LED strip. The ease of installation makes it possible to create structures of any configuration.
Profile Types
Aluminum profiles for LED strips differ in the installation method: overhead (or universal), mortise and corner.
The laid on profile is most often used in the furniture industry, providing illumination of wardrobes or kitchen furniture. You can highlight glass countertops. A profile of golden or silver colors up to two meters long is used. To diffuse the light flux, the aluminum profile under the LED strip is often equipped with light filters.
The angular profile is used if you need to apply a non-standard solution (in the illumination of shop windows, window openings, ceilings, all kinds of niches, you can use it as a baseboard for floor or ceiling).
Recessed aluminum profiles for LED strips are resistant to external influences, they are used to illuminate furniture, stairs, floors, even in the yard to illuminate a veranda or walkways. They significantly outperform similar plastic profiles.
Methods for attaching a tape to a profile
The aluminum profile under the LED strip for convenience is equipped with special grooves where you can simply push the tape “by surprise”. But if there is a need, then the tape is simple enough to stick.