Introduction to LED diffuser sheet

Introduction to LED diffuser sheet

 

An LED diffuser sheet is a component used in LED lighting systems to scatter and diffuse light emitted by the LED light source. The main purpose of the diffuser sheet is to evenly distribute and soften the light, reducing glare and creating a more uniform illumination. Here's an overview of LED diffuser sheets:

 

1. Material:

PS or PMMA or PS or MS. These materials are commonly used for LED diffuser sheets due to their transparency, durability, and ability to transmit light effectively. They are also lightweight and resistant to yellowing over time. The material characteristics are compared in the following table.

 

Characteristic

PS 

PMMA 

PC 

MS 

Scientific Name

Polystyrene

Polymethyl Methacrylate

Polycarbonate

Polystyrene-Methyl Methacrylate

Transparency

80%

93%

80%

85%

Impact Resistance

Low to Moderate

Moderate to High

High

Moderate to High

Thermal Resistance

70~80℃

70℃

140℃

80~100℃

Chemical Resistance

Limited resistance to chemicals

Moderate resistance to chemicals

Resistant to many chemicals

Moderate resistance to chemicals

UV Resistance

Susceptible to UV degradation

Good UV resistance

Good UV resistance

Moderate UV resistance

Cost

Economical

Moderate cost

Moderately Expensive

Varies depending on the ratio of PS to PMMA

Manufacturing Process

Easily molded and extruded

Easily molded and extruded

Injection Molding, Extrusion

Typically involves blending PS and PMMA

Applications

Disposable items, packaging

Optical lenses, signage, lighting

Eyewear, automotive parts, bottles

Various applications, blends PS and PMMA

 

2. Design and Structure:

The diffuser sheet is designed with a specific pattern or texture to scatter light evenly. Microstructures or prisms on the surface help in achieving the desired light diffusion.


3. Functionality:

Diffusion:The primary function is to scatter and distribute light, reducing the direct glare from the LED light source.

Beam Control: Diffuser sheets can control the beam angle of the light emitted by the LEDs, ensuring a more even spread of light.

Color temperature:In LED products, an important specification number is color temperature, which is related to the color characteristics displayed by LED lighting products. The definition of color temperature:

 

Light Source

Color Temperature Range

Typical Application

Incandescent

2700K-3000K

Residential lighting, ambient

Halogen

3000K-3500K

Accent lighting, task lighting

Warm White LED

2700K-3000K

General indoor lighting

Neutral White LED

3500K-4000K

Offices, commercial spaces

Cool White LED

4000K-5000K

Task lighting, kitchens, bathrooms

Daylight LED

5000K-6500K

Reading lights, outdoor lighting

 

4. Types of Diffuser Sheets:

Prismatic Diffusers: These have micro-prisms on the surface, which refract and scatter light in multiple directions.

Frosted Diffusers: These have a frosted or matte surface that helps in diffusing light and reducing glare. They provide a softer and more even light output.

Lenticular Diffusers: These have a pattern of small lenses on the surface, directing light in specific directions and controlling the spread of light.

5. Installation:

The diffuser sheet is typically placed in front of the LED light source within the lighting fixture. It can be integrated into the design of the fixture or added as a separate layer.

 

6. Cleaning and Maintenance:

Care should be taken during cleaning to avoid scratching or damaging the diffuser surface, which could impact light transmission. Typically, a soft cloth and mild cleaning solutions are recommended.

 

In conclusion, the LED diffuser sheet is a crucial component in LED lighting systems, designed to scatter and distribute light emitted by LED sources. Typically made from materials like polycarbonate or acrylic, these diffuser sheets enhance the quality of illumination by reducing glare, creating uniform light distribution, and softening the overall lighting effect. These diffuser panels find wide applications in various lighting fixtures, including LED panel lights, troffers, downlights, and more, contributing to improved aesthetics and visual comfort in both residential and commercial settings.

 

 

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