Distribution of light and diffusers made of aluminum profile

The aluminum tube is not actually required for thermal management, as we already covered. However, it does provide a sturdy mounting foundation for the polycarbonate diffuser, which has some really great advantages in terms of light distribution, as well as the LED strip.

The diffuser is typically frosted, allowing light to flow through but scattering it in numerous directions as it travels through the polycarbonate material, giving off a soft, diffuse look as opposed to the raw LED “dots” that would otherwise be visible.

Direct or indirect glare can have a big impact on the total lighting depending on whether the LED strip is protected by a diffuser.

Because of the intense brightness of direct glare, which happens when someone looks directly at a light source, it might be mildly uncomfortable and make them want to look away. Point-source lights like spotlights, theater lights, and even the sun frequently cause this. Brightness is normally beneficial, but when it impinges on our eyes from a limited surface area, glare and discomfort can result.

Similar to this, direct glare can be caused by an LED strip light since the individual LEDs beam right into the subject’s eyes. Even if an LED strip’s individual LEDs are not as bright as high-powered spot lights, this can still be uncomfortable. The tiny “dots” of each individual LED are hidden by a diffuser, creating a much softer and more comfortable light beam that won’t make someone feel as uncomfortable if they gaze directly at the light source.If the LED strip lights are disguised and cannot be clearly seen, direct glare is typically not a problem. For instance, LED strip lights positioned inside store shelves, toe-kick lighting, or behind cabinets are often below eye level and don’t cause direct glare issues.

On the other side, indirect glare may still be a problem if a diffuser is not used. In particular, when the LED strip lights shine directly on a material or surface with high gloss, indirect glare may happen.

Here is a picture of the aluminum channel shining onto our concrete workshop floor that has been wax finished, displaying it both with and without the diffuser attached. Even though the individual LED emitters are obscured from this perspective, reflections of them off of the glossy surface are still visible, which can be a little annoying. However, keep in mind that this picture was taken with the LED strips essentially on the ground, which is not how it would be in real life.