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.
