Do cob LED lights get hot? | Vanray Guide

Do COB LED Lights Get Hot?

Chip-on-Board (COB) LED lights are widely used in stage lighting due to their high lumen output and compact size. One common question that professionals ask is whether COB LED lights get hot during operation. The answer is yes, but the extent of heat production and management differs significantly from traditional lighting technologies.

How Much Heat Do COB LED Lights Produce?

COB LEDs typically convert around 80-90% of the electricity into light, with only 10-20% dissipated as heat. Although this is substantially more efficient than halogen or incandescent bulbs, significant heat is still generated at the LED chip and the driver components.

For example, a 50W COB LED can produce surface temperatures of up to 50-70°C under continuous operation, depending on airflow and heat sink design. This temperature is much lower than halogen bulbs, which can exceed 300°C.

Why Do COB LEDs Get Hot?

Heat generation in COB LEDs is mainly due to electrical resistance and inefficiencies in the semiconductor junction. When current passes through the chip, some energy converts into heat. Proper heat dissipation is critical as excessive heat can degrade LED efficiency and lifespan.

How Is Heat Managed in COB LED Stage Lights?

Manufacturers use several methods to manage COB LED heat, including:

• Heat sinks: Large aluminum or copper heat sinks draw heat away from the LED chip.
• Thermal interface materials: High-quality thermal pastes or pads enhance heat transfer between the chip and heat sink.
• Active cooling: Fans or liquid cooling systems are sometimes integrated if high power or enclosed fixtures demand it.

Regular maintenance to keep heat sinks clean and unobstructed also helps improve heat dissipation.

Are COB LEDs Safe to Touch During Operation?

Due to the heat generated, COB LED chips and close surfaces can become warm to hot, often reaching temperatures uncomfortable or unsafe to touch for extended periods. Stage technicians should be cautious when handling these lights during or immediately after use to prevent burns.

What Are the Advantages of COB LEDs Despite Heat Generation?

Despite producing some heat, COB LED lights offer many advantages for stage lighting professionals:

• Higher luminous efficacy (up to 150 lm/W) compared to traditional lights.
• Longer lifespan, often exceeding 50,000 hours.
• Compact and flexible form factor for creative fixture design.
• Lower energy consumption and reduced need for heavy cooling equipment.

Proper heat management ensures that COB LED lights remain reliable and efficient, balancing performance with thermal safety.

For more professional stage lighting solutions with effective thermal design, consider Vanray's range of high-performance COB LED fixtures.