Waterproof Heat Sink? Moderators: adafruit_support_bill, adafruit

[johnyradio]

Hi

Any tips for heat-sinking a waterproof LED strip?

THX

[franklin97355]

Is it waterproof with a cover or are the LED's waterproof themselves?

[johnyradio]

Is it waterproof with a cover or are the LED's waterproof themselves?

Hi, good question.
Both.

Also, i could have asked:
"Any tips for waterproofing an LED strip,
while allowing heat to escape?"

thx!

[adafruit_support_bill]

Water is a much better thermal conductor than air, so heat-sinking should not be necessary. We have two types of 'waterproof' strips. The waterproof analog strips have a molded flexible clear plastic face. The waterproof digital strips are encased in a silicone sheath. In both cases, additional steps are required to waterproof your electrical connections to the strip.

Silicone sealant works. But be sure to get the type rated for electrical use. The more common 'acid cure' type (smells like vinegar) will attack the copper in your connections.

[johnyradio]

Water is a much better thermal conductor than air

then i wish i was submerging the strip!
Alas, i only want it to be protected against rain--
it won't be submerged.

Silicone sealant works. But be sure to get the type rated for electrical use. The more common 'acid cure' type (smells like vinegar) will attack the copper in your connections.

Great tip!

[adafruit_support_bill]

As long as there is free air circulation across the front of the strip, it should not be a problem. If it will be enclosed, then mounting the strip on an aluminum plate or in an aluminum channel should give you sufficient heat dissipation. There are aluminum extrusions sold for that purpose. We do not carry any at this time.