LEDs stay cool primarily by transferring the heat they generate away from the light source using a component known as a heat sink.
While LED bulbs run significantly cooler than older incandescent types, they still produce heat. Managing this heat is essential for the bulb's efficiency and longevity.
The Role of the Heat Sink
The key component responsible for keeping LEDs cool is the heat sink, usually located in the base of the bulb. According to the reference, the heat is pulled away by a heat sink in the base of the bulb.
How a Heat Sink Works
- Heat Absorption: The heat sink is designed to absorb the heat generated by the LED components.
- Heat Dissipation: The heat sink's structure, often including fins or a large surface area, helps to transfer this absorbed heat away from the LED and dissipate it into the surrounding environment, typically through convection and radiation.
By effectively drawing heat away, the heat sink ensures that the delicate LED chips do not overheat, which would degrade their performance and shorten their lifespan.
