sudz
Aquarium Advice Addict
HI guys,
2 years ago I built my own LED light for my 75 gallon planted.
Its been going strong, and I just wanted to post a really (REALLY!) cheap heatsync for those doing their own DIY LED setup.
i got the LED's, Meanwell drivers, thermal glue from rapid LED, But the heatsync I found in the trash!
Well, We figured out what it was, and I'll be using it again:
KVARTAL Triple curtain rail - IKEA
Pros:
Cons:
So, rather than spending 150 bucks plus for a 4 foot heatsync - I got it for free (or could buy another for 25 dollars)
Also, Ikea sells mounting kits for it, so you can make it look uber nice/sturdy.
KVARTAL Triple curtain rail - IKEA
2 years ago I built my own LED light for my 75 gallon planted.
Its been going strong, and I just wanted to post a really (REALLY!) cheap heatsync for those doing their own DIY LED setup.
i got the LED's, Meanwell drivers, thermal glue from rapid LED, But the heatsync I found in the trash!
Well, We figured out what it was, and I'll be using it again:
KVARTAL Triple curtain rail - IKEA
Pros:
- Cheap - 25 dollars for 55 inches long!
- Anodized/coated with something - Not corroding with moisture at all
- adequate cooling I have 12 XP-G R5 Cool Whites running at Max output (1300mah) and have 3x40mm fans for airflow - The heatsync gets warm, but easily held. My enclosure has no vents.
- Cut to length with any old hack-saw.
- Has a hollow Channel down the middle to hide your wiring!
Cons:
- There's a bit of a lip at the outside edges - I had to trim every single LED package so I could get the LED over a "flat" spot
- with 12LED's, it most likely needs active cooling (aka a Fan) I haven't had it running outside of my enclosure, so you might get away if you
So, rather than spending 150 bucks plus for a 4 foot heatsync - I got it for free (or could buy another for 25 dollars)
Also, Ikea sells mounting kits for it, so you can make it look uber nice/sturdy.
KVARTAL Triple curtain rail - IKEA