A LED consumes very little energy, generates little heat, is relatively small and less sensitive to vibrations. It also has a very long service life. It is therefore important that the individual components are optimally connected during the production process. Potting plays a central role here. Two-component potting compounds based on polyurethane (PU) or silicone are used for this purpose.
Their task is to protect the LED against extreme temperatures, moisture, vibrations and mechanical damage. This is because LEDs are used in areas where maximum reliability is required to minimise the risk of failure. A long service life and maintenance-free operation also play a major role. There is a distinction between different types of LED’s.
Surface Mounted Device-LEDs are used in electronic devices, displays, backlights and decorative lights
Several LED chips on one circuit board, used in floodlights, streetlights, ceiling lights and industrial lighting
High output and luminous flux, suitable for highly illuminated areas such as billboards, sports facilities and industrial plants
LEDs are used in a wide range of applications, from torches and traffic lights to vehicle headlights or tail lights and through to street lighting. They are also used for lighting up difficult areas such as damp rooms and swimming pools as well as for creating visual effects in display cabinets.
Choosing the right material is essential. The potting compound is selected according to the required properties such as hardness, vibration and temperature resistance. Different colors are also possible. A transparent or opaque clear potting compound is used for translucent LED applications. It must have good adhesion to the LED components as well as good resistance to UV radiation, temperature changes and chemicals.
Dispensing systems for LED production
During processing, it is important that all air bubbles are removed from the potting material, as these can impair the light yield and shorten the service life of the LEDs.
METER MIX offers metering and mixing systems that fulfil all requirements for the encapsulation of LEDs and ensure a high level of process reliability. This includes optimising mixing ratios, providing high metering accuracy and producing bubble-free potting, whilst still ensuring perfect sealing. The METER MIX systems also provide impressive cost savings in raw materials with reduced disposal costs. They also work without using hazardous flushing agents, thus protecting the environment.