Heat Sink Selection Guide for High-Power LED Modules

Maximize Cooling Surface Area:
- Surface Area Over Mass: Prioritize a heat sink with a large cooling surface area, not just mass or weight. The mass alone provides minimal cooling capacity.
- Optimal Design: Choose finned or pin array heat sinks for enhanced cooling performance.
Cooling Methods:
- Forced Air Cooling: Finned heat sinks are ideal for forced air cooling.
- Static Air Cooling: Pin array heat sinks are better suited for static air cooling.
Surface Treatments:
- Black Anodized Finish: Black anodized heat sinks outperform unfinished aluminum in heat dissipation.
Mounting Orientation:
- Upward Facing Fins: Whenever possible, mount the heat sink’s fins facing upwards to optimize cooling.
Mounting Surfaces:
- Clean and Flat: Ensure the mounting surfaces between the LED and the heat sink are clean and flat for optimal thermal transfer.
Thermal Interface Material (TIM):
- Low °C/W rating: Use TIM with a low °C/W rating for better thermal conductivity. Double-sided thermal tape is an excellent choice for most applications.
- Avoid Mechanical Fasteners: We do not recommend mechanical fasteners for our LED modules. For environments with vibration, use Arctic Silver epoxy adhesive.
Assembly Tips:
- Pressure Application: When using double-sided thermal tape, apply as much pressure as possible to ensure solid contact between the LED, tape, and heat sink during assembly.

Using High Power LEDs