One of the fundamental differences among the various lighting technologies is the way the heat is transferred.

While most traditional technologies transfer heat in large part in the form of infrared radiation, the HB-LED technology requires heat to be transferred exclusively by contact. This has practical consequences on the shape and form of the applications.

Also, as all semiconductor-based devices, LEDs cannot be operated above a temperature threshold that is typically somewhere between 125°C and 150°C. Above such temperature the device (junction) is destroyed. Well below that temperature the efficiency of the emitters is already reduced, peak efficiency is in fact often provided at about 80°C.

As a consequence, unless adequate heat dissipation can be guaranteed, it is essential to monitor the LED modules emitters’ temperature and limit the power output.

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