What Are Aluminum Channels for LED Strip Lights?

Do you know what are amulinum channels for led strip lights? They are one of  the most popular accessories for your LED strip lights include aluminum channels (or extrusions) and diffusers. When planning LED strip light projects, you may frequently come across aluminum channels listed on parts lists as an optional accessory. But how "optional" are they, really? Are they needed for thermal management? In this article, we'll discuss the the most significant aspects of the decision making process, as well as the most commonly asked questions regarding aluminum channels and diffusers.

Despite the versatility and ease of use that LED strips offer, strictly speaking, they are more of a lighting component rather than a finished lighting product. Aluminum channels, or sometimes called aluminum extrusions, serve a variety of functions that help LED strip lights look and work more like a traditional lighting fixture.

The aluminum channel itself is relatively simple and straightforward. It is made of extruded aluminum (hence the alternate name), which allows it to be made long and narrow, which is perfect for a linear lighting installation where LED strip lights are considered. The channels are typically "U" shaped, with an approximately half-inch wide slot along which the LED strip light can be mounted. The most common length is 3.2 ft (1.0 meter), and they are often sold in packs of 5 channels as this matches the typical 16.4 ft (5.0 meter) LED strip reel length.

In addition to the aluminum channel, a polycarbonate (plastic) diffuser is oftentimes included. The polycarbonate diffuser is also manufactured via an extrusion process, and is designed to easily snap on and off of the top of the aluminum channel. Once in place, the diffuser typically sits approximately a quarter to half an inch away from the LED strip lights, which are mounted at the base of the aluminum channel. As its name suggests, the diffuser helps to provide diffuse light and improve the light distribution of the LED strip light.