An LED profile (corner, overhead or mortise) can be used to organize lighting using a diode-based strip. This solution is an effective alternative to installing lighting fixtures directly on a wall/ceiling or other surface.
The main reason why you should use an LED profile is the increased fastening strength of such a design. And in addition, it is quite easy to install it yourself.
Application area
The main purpose of these elements is to install a diode-based tape. It comes in different types (plastic, aluminum) and is used to organize lighting in different areas. This could be the ceiling, walls, corners of the room. In addition, by choosing one of the design options, it is possible to use it as a surface-mounted lamp.
The design of some models (mortise version) allows profiles to be embedded in different surfaces, including when organizing the lighting of steps, and also installed outdoors (as lighting in landscape design). This is facilitated by the type of material – anodized aluminum, which is not susceptible to corrosion. In a word, they can be used as decorative elements, and also perform protective functions when installing strip-type lamps.
Overview of species
Fastening elements for LED strips are divided into groups depending on the type of material:
- the aluminum version is more resistant to external factors, is durable and is used more often;
- plastic version - made of polycarbonate.
Based on the method of fastening, these elements are divided into the following types:
- corner - from the name it is clear that this option is designed for installation in the corner of the room, and models with a diffuser are usually found; such an element can significantly reduce the intensity of the tape's glow (within 25-40%, depending on the design);
- mortise - built into any surface (floor, walls) made of plasterboard or chipboard, this option can be installed flush or protruding; in addition, a mortise profile is almost always mounted with a diffuser and is characterized by protruding edges, the function of which is to smooth out uneven edges of the material;
- overhead - easily installed on any surface; this option for LED strips can be glued or attached using self-tapping screws.
A distinctive feature that characterizes the polycarbonate version is its ability to take the shape of a slightly curved surface, since this profile is quite flexible. But you should not install it on surfaces that are too rounded, because the polycarbonate element, although flexible, may not withstand increased fracture load.
Various types of aluminum models
They are also classified according to design features and shape:
- round;
- square;
- taper;
- trapezoidal.
Versions with a diffuser differ in the type of material of this element: transparent, matte. Depending on the chosen option, a more or less noticeable reduction in the intensity of the tape glow can be achieved. In addition, the aluminum or polycarbonate profile with a diffuser is available in different designs, which also differ in the shape of this element: flat, round, triangular, rectangular.
Polycarbonate look
The plastic fastening element for the LED strip comes in different designs: matte and white. In addition, there is the option to choose a color option. This is the main advantage of such profiles in comparison with their aluminum counterpart.
In addition to purchasing different types of designs (round, square, metal or polycarbonate), there is also the opportunity to make fasteners for LED strips with your own hands. Similar structures can be made of plastic or iron. The process itself is quite labor-intensive, but the cost of the product will be lower.
Sequence of actions during installation
To install the tape yourself, you need to select a power supply according to the load level. This must be done, guided by the total length of the product and the capacity of 1 m of strip. 25% is added to the resulting value as a margin. The length of the tape and profile with a diffuser is determined by measuring the area of the surface where the illumination is organized.
Regardless of what type of fastening element is used (aluminum, plastic, corner, overhead, round), a small cut is made on one side of the edge with your own hands to bring out the supply wire of the tape.
Installation of the profile is carried out using screws with a countersunk head so that the fasteners do not interfere with the laying of the tapes. The size of the screws is determined by the thickness of the material on which the aluminum profile is installed.
Tape connection diagram
Next, the surface of this element is cleaned and degreased, which will ensure better installation of the tapes. These steps are repeated in the same sequence if a corner or overhead profile is mounted. The mortise version of the design can be installed without fasteners, but this is determined by the configuration of the surface, as well as the type of material.
Nuances of work
An aluminum profile is always mounted with your own hands as carefully as possible, even when organizing the lighting of steps, so that the appearance of such lamps does not cause discomfort due to careless design. When an aluminum profile (regardless of whether the mortise or overlay option is selected) is prepared for installation, its edges must be deburred. In addition, these areas are closed with plugs, which will provide additional protection for the tapes.
Profile assembly steps
It is advisable to position the entire structure (mortise, overlay profile) so that in the future it is easy to reach the built-in tapes. Otherwise, significant difficulties will arise when trying to replace lighting fixtures of this type with your own hands.
Installation of a mortise structure into the floor should be carried out in areas not subject to increased loads.
Thus, it is a more preferable option in comparison with different types of lamp luminaires. It is quite easy to attach an overhead or corner profile for attaching strip lighting fixtures with your own hands.
First of all, it should be noted that the classification of profiles is based on the type of material:
- Polycarbonate products. Although the plastic box is used less frequently, it has a number of advantages. For example, it is flexible, so it can be installed around curves or uneven areas.
- Aluminum box. It is very popular because it is resistant to corrosion and has increased strength.
Types of construction have a main feature - heat dissipation (measured in W/m), which depends on the surface area and dimensions. There are several product categories that differ in installation method. These are types such as:
There are other types of products that differ in shape. These include round, rectangular, square, cone-shaped and trapezoidal products.
There are a huge number of models in shape and section. Their use allows you to create the interior of any room to suit your taste and style. This applies not only to premises: shop windows, office buildings, and billboards stand out from the general background thanks to such lighting.
In addition to the main options, there are several more types of profiles with which you can attach a light source. For example, an LED strip can be placed in a U-shaped profile. Such a device is used to illuminate a desktop, when decorating shop windows or stands and exhibitions.
Any profile includes such additional components as plugs, screws, clips and a protective screen (diffuser). The screen, in turn, can be matte or transparent.
The sealed box has also become very popular. This type is used for aquariums and many other elements. In such a box, the LED strip is protected from unwanted moisture.
The boxes differ from each other in color scheme. Colors are selected to match the overall interior of the room or object that will be illuminated. The LED strip also comes in different colors, so choosing the right color is not difficult.
Standard sizes
The profile size for the LED strip is adjusted to the light source. The LED strip has the following dimensions: width from 8 to 13 mm, thickness - from 2.2 to 5.5 mm, and length - up to 5 meters. For the side glow tape, the parameters are slightly different: the width is 6.6 mm and the height is 12.7 mm. Therefore, the standard size of the structure is on average two meters. But the common length is from 1.5 to 5.5 meters. The size of the box ranges from 10 to 100 millimeters in width and 5–50 millimeters in depth.
Profile dimensions may vary, because Each manufacturer has its own manufacturing technology and standards. Mostly products come in the following sizes:
When installing LED lighting, to achieve high-quality installation and maximum effect, use a box for LED strip. It is divided into groups, and in order to choose the right one, we will consider each one separately.
Material of manufacture
Box for LED - plastic strips can be easily embedded into plasterboard walls. It can be easily glued to a suspended ceiling, and the ceiling will not bear any extra loads. Plastic compositions look beautiful, especially snow and ice sculptures.
Polycarbonate products are also resistant to temperature changes.
This profile can be used at high humidity without fear of negative consequences. The diodes in it will never overheat, and with proper care it will not lose its appearance, which cannot be said about other materials. Therefore, when making lighting with your own hands, just such a box is most often used.
By the way, it was specially developed for LED strips, so we can say that the aluminum profile is a universal profile. With its help, it is very easy to assemble a backlight yourself that will be different from anything anyone has seen before, and at the same time its functionality will remain at its best. The most progressive design solutions in the field of LED lighting are considered to be solutions using an aluminum box.
Installation methods
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After choosing the profile material, you need to decide on one more point, namely: how it will be installed. There are three main ways that differ from each other. This determines which of the three models we will buy.
From this short description it is clear: it is quite possible to assemble, design and install an LED strip yourself, without resorting to the services of craftsmen, which significantly saves the family budget.
Fastening
Modern room design technologies cannot be imagined without plasterboard structures of varying complexity. All this is illuminated using an LED source, creating unique effects. The lighting itself is placed so as to be as invisible as possible: it is hidden in the walls, ceiling, floor. It’s easy to attach the LED strip itself to the profile: there is a special place where they are attached. Sometimes this is done with glue.
When working with drywall, you need to remember some rules. In order for the light from the installed source to be more intense, the installation depth should be within 2–3 cm. But if the light needs to be diffused, then the light bulbs are moved closer to the edge of the drywall.
The assembly of the backlight structure has its own sequence:
- First, the profile itself is mounted.
- The next step is to install an LED strip in it.
- Now all this is covered with glass (or a lid - which was purchased for this case).
The profile, depending on the material, is attached to the surface either with self-tapping screws or glue. For example, an aluminum box, an overhead model, is placed on self-tapping screws: with a sufficient length, even despite the lightness of the material, the weight of this entire structure will be more than sufficient. However, you will still have to glue the inside of the furniture (for example, with double-sided tape) so as not to spoil the walls on which our lighting will be installed.
The cornice lighting is assembled according to the same principle: first, the light structure itself is attached to it, then the cornice itself is installed in its place. If it is a fillet, then a gap of 7–10 cm must be left between it and the ceiling.
In this simple way you can decorate any space with the help of modern light sources. When choosing the necessary components in a store, you need to know some technical aspects, which, as it turns out, are also easy to understand.
Light-emitting diode (LED) strips are often used to organize lighting for various rooms. Most often, they are used to illuminate niches, showcases, stands, ceilings, etc. They are used to organize landscape and street lighting, billboards, illuminate ice sculptures, snow and ice slides, skating rinks, etc. Special boxes or profiles are used to fix LED strips.
Advantages of using boxes
You can install LED devices without using boxes. However, placement with their use allows:
- seal the lamp, thereby preventing the ingress of dust and moisture;
- organize the removal of heat that is generated during the operation of light-emitting diodes, thereby increasing their service life;
- give an aesthetically finished look to the lighting fixture;
- fit the lamp organically into any interior;
- create both diffused and directional light;
- protect the LED lamp from mechanical damage.
Profile classification
Cable channels are distinguished by type of installation, material of manufacture, and types of screens.
Types of profiles by area of application
Depending on where you plan to install the lamp, there are 5 types of boxes:
- corner;
- built-in;
- mortise;
- invoices;
- hanging.
The corner version is used when fixing the lamp in curved surfaces, as well as for illuminating structures that have complex geometry, for example, lighting steps, niches, cabinets, etc. Using a box of this shape, the light flux is directed at an angle of 45°.
The built-in type of lamps is placed in the cracks of plasterboard structures, chipboard structures or in suspended ceilings. Used to fix LED strips without silicone backing. They are installed either in the gap itself, flush with the surface, or protruding beyond its boundaries.
The mortise version is used in the same areas as the built-in ones, however, unlike them, this type of box has sides at the edges that allow you to hide the uneven edges of the cracks.
The overhead cable channel for the LED strip is a U-shaped structure that is attached to the surface using self-tapping screws or special glue. This type of box is the easiest to install, so it is most often used when organizing lighting. For an LED strip placed outdoors, it will provide reliable protection from ultraviolet rays, as well as from rain, snow, etc.
The pendant type is installed when organizing designer lamps, illuminating cornices, in car tuning, as well as when organizing lighting in the courtyards of private houses. The pendant version is similar in shape to the overhead one, but its installation requires the purchase of special plugs and hangers that hold the lamp.
The industry produces profiles of round, cone-shaped, square, rectangular and trapezoidal shapes.
Types of profiles based on material of manufacture
There are two types of products on the construction products market: aluminum and plastic.
Advantages of aluminum structures:
- high strength;
- long service life;
- easy installation;
- hermetically seal the ICE tape from the negative effects of moisture and dust;
- easy to maintain;
- Corrosion resistant.
Advantages of plastic fasteners:
- lower price compared to aluminum;
- reliable protection of the LED lamp from dust and moisture;
- the flexibility of the material allows it to be placed in structures of complex geometry;
- ease of maintenance.
Attention! When choosing a plastic profile, you need to pay attention to products made of high-quality plastic that will not deform when heated.
For high-power LED lamps, plastic mounting boxes cannot be used, since plastic does not conduct heat well from light-emitting diodes.
Plastic cable channels are used to illuminate trade displays and stands, furniture and other structures.
For your information. You can replace an expensive profile with an ordinary iron or aluminum construction profile, the main thing is that it does not have perforations.
Screen types
Profiles are usually equipped with screens that are designed to diffuse the light coming from the LED source. In addition, they seal light sources and also protect them from mechanical damage, penetration of dust or moisture. If necessary, they can be easily removed and replaced.
Two types of plastic screens are produced for cable channels: matte and transparent.
The transparent type reduces the luminous flux by about 5%.
Frosted diffusers reduce the luminous flux by approximately 30%.
To create a directional flow of light, you can use screens with a lens.
For ease of maintenance, removable screens are most often installed, although there are also models with screens that are secured with sealant. The industry produces diffusers of various shapes and designs, so choosing the right option for you will not be difficult.
Dimensions of cable channel for LED strip
Since the LED strip has standard dimensions, the dimensions of the fasteners for it are also standardized.
Industry producesLEDtape in the following sizes:
- width – 8-10 mm;
- thickness – 2.2-5.5 mm;
- length – up to 5 m.
Accordingly, the U-shaped box has the following parameters:
- length - from 1.5 to 5.5 m, but the most common length is 2 m;
- width – from 10-100 mm;
- depth – from 5 to 50 mm.
Profile installation
Installation depends on the type of cable channel. However, the first steps to fix the structure are the same for all types:
- A lighting plan is developed and a lamp connection diagram is drawn up;
- Using a ruler, tape measure and pencil, the surface is marked;
- The box and LED strip are cut to the required length (preferably with a small margin). The tape is cut in strictly defined places.
If an overhead or corner type installation is performed, the cable channel is fixed to the surface using self-tapping screws, a mounting plate, a magnet, clips (brackets), double-sided tape or special glue.
If a mortise or built-in version is being mounted, then a recess is first made to the required depth and fasteners are inserted into it. Most often, installation is performed flush with the plane. The box is fixed with self-tapping screws or special glue. The mortise type is additionally secured using sides or wings.
If installation is carried out using self-tapping screws, then you need to choose hardware with hidden caps so that they do not interfere with the gluing of the LED strip.
When installing a suspension system, cables (strings or hangers) are first attached to the ceiling, to which the box itself is then attached.
Attention! Before installing the tape, you need to clean and degrease the surface on which the LED lamp will be glued. To do this, wipe it with a clean cloth soaked in alcohol.
Next, we glue the LED device to the profile. If the tape has an adhesive layer, you must first remove the protective film. After this, it is pressed tightly to the inside of the cable channel. Gluing must be done very carefully, because if you fix the lamp in the box incorrectly, then it will not be possible to re-glue it.
After installation, the lamp is covered with a screen and special plugs are installed on the ends of the fasteners.
For the suspended structure, special conductor plugs are used, which have holes intended for attaching the system to the cables. These holes are also used to feed wires inside the profile.
Rules for choosing a box for LED strip
Before purchasing fasteners, you need to choose the location of the lamp: indoors or in the yard, and also specify the type of surface to which it will be fixed.
You also need to decide on the tasks that the profile should perform: purely utilitarian (protective), or will it additionally be an element of interior design.
If the lamp serves as a design element, then it is best to purchase a mortise or built-in aluminum profile.
If the profile only requires protection of the lamp, then you can opt for the plastic type. It is also better to use a plastic product when you need to use a flexible cable channel, for example, to create illumination for an arch or a structure with rounded bends.
It is not recommended to use a wide profile for a narrow strip, since in this case shadows may appear when the LEDs are operating, and the lamp will not look very nice. Therefore, you should choose a cable channel with a width no more than 1.5 times greater than the width of the LED strip.
Using LED lighting will create unique lighting in your room. Even a non-professional can handle the installation of the box.
Video
The introduction of new lighting technologies allows you to carry out calculations and installation yourself. I’ll tell you how to choose the right plastic and aluminum profile for an LED strip. Many people simply do not know that cooling is required.
The LED profile is quite expensive due to the cost of the aluminum material and the complexity of its processing. If you want to save 5-10 times on your purchase, then you will find out what inexpensive alternative you can use from suitable materials.
- 1. Main types
- 2. 1. Corner
- 3. 2. Built-in
- 5. Correct prices
- 6. DIY iron
- 7. DIY plastic box
- 8. Video
- 9. Correct installation
Main types
The main characteristic is its ability to dissipate heat, and is expressed in Watts per 1 meter. The characteristic depends on the dimensions and surface area, usually from 10 to 150 W/m. Stores, of course, rarely indicate it, but you can ask the seller. Powerful is available on SMD 5630 and SMD 5730 LEDs, power ranges from 15W to 30W. A wide box for LED strip can be glued in several rows, so when selecting, keep in mind that the power per meter should be higher than that of LEDs.
It is made of aluminum and plastic. Based on installation location, it is divided into categories:
- angular;
- built-in, mortise;
- overhead;
As a rule, an aluminum corner profile for an LED strip is equipped with a removable diffuser. The brightness of LEDs is high and therefore a diffuser is required to protect the eyes. I measured how much light flux is lost on it, usually 25% is lost, but I got results of 40%. These numbers should be taken into account when designing lighting.
Most often, built-in is used for design solutions; it allows you to connect chipboard and drywall, and install tape at the junction. It can protrude above the surface or be flush.
Mortise differs from other types by the presence of an edge that covers uneven places in the groove. Allows you to illuminate the kitchen work surface without the LEDs sticking out near the cabinets. A recess is cut into the chipboard in the shape of the mortise element, which completely hides it. As a result, it turns out that the wall cabinet itself glows from below.
The invoice can be mounted on any surface and can be glued or attached with self-tapping screws. Flexible plastic has a certain flexibility that allows it to be mounted on a curved surface, such as an arch or a circle.
The Korean-made Leroy Merlin LED strip profile is in particular demand in Moscow.
Correct prices
I will give an example of the correct prices for mid-summer 2015.
Many stores sell expensive ones with prices ranging from 300-400 rubles. for 1m. But often the store indicates the price for 2 meters, and this is indicated in small handwriting or somewhere on the sidelines. Be careful when comparing costs between locations.
As a rule, you do not need Italian or foreign production, domestic production is enough. Finding a cheap one is not easy, they are rarely sold. They asked me about Leroy Merlin, I thought it was a glamorous profile, it turned out to be the name of the store.
DIY iron
Construction for drywall and ceilings
Often, when you make lighting in an uninhabited room, such as a pantry, a bathhouse, a garage, you do not need high-quality installation. A high-quality appearance is not always required, let it look worse by 30%, but it will come out 10 times cheaper. In this case, an affordable alternative to an aluminum profile for a led strip can serve as a construction one, made of iron or aluminum. Just choose a smooth one without perforation and not corrugated. Iron comes in different sizes and thicknesses of the metal, besides it is galvanized and does not rust. When the price of an aluminum LED profile for average power is 400 rubles. for 1 m., construction costs 15-20 rubles. It turns out 20 times cheaper.
The quality of the thermal conductivity of iron is of course worse, but when installing medium-power diode tapes, it will be enough. It doesn't look like anodized aluminum, but still no one will look at it. And in a week you yourself will not pay attention to it.
DIY plastic box
Regular white
An alternative to a plastic profile is a plastic cable duct, which is used for laying wires. The cable channel, like a box, is tightly closed with a lid. The dimensions of the box can be from 10 to 100 mm wide, and from 5 to 50 mm deep. A cover is also used in the case; I use this plastic strip when mounting on uneven surfaces, such as wood or brick. It is glued to a flexible strip, which is then attached in a convenient way, to liquid nails or polyurethane. It bends well and can be installed on uneven and curved surfaces. From a thick cable channel, I made full-fledged lamps for the summer kitchen and the veranda.
Modern cable channels have a high-quality wood finish and can be of different colors. The fittings will allow you to harmoniously connect them at different angles and in different shapes. If you use it outdoors, you can close it with a sealed lid for the winter and install plugs to protect the LEDs from ice and snow.
During operation, plastic can heat up from the LEDs and become deformed. The situation will be corrected by a channel made of high-quality plastic, it is a little more expensive.
Price with wood finish:
- 12 by 12 mm. an average of 10 rubles / m;
- 40 by 25 mm. 30 rub/m;
- 100 by 60 mm. 100 rub/m.
There are other suitable materials, aluminum curtain rods, window and facade ones. A cornice 8 cm wide. I bought it for 700 rubles. for 3 meters, such an LED costs 1000 rubles. You can glue an LED strip onto such an improvised box from above, which creates an interesting backlight along the top of the window. It will look especially interesting for the New Year if there is color RGB lighting.
Video
A colleague demonstrates how to make something cheap from scrap materials. A cable channel is used for the LED strip.
Correct installation
A foreign colleague will show in the video how to correctly profile, how to solder wires and install plugs. Everything is accessible and understandable.
