Analysis of Causes of LED Failure in COB Package

**Introduction to COB Package**

The COB (Chip on Board) package is a technology designed to address the issue of heat dissipation in LED applications. Unlike traditional SMD or through-hole packaging, COB offers several advantages such as compact design, simplified manufacturing processes, and improved thermal management. This makes it particularly suitable for high-performance lighting systems where space and efficiency are critical.

In a COB package, the bare LED chip is directly attached to a substrate using conductive or non-conductive adhesive. After that, wire bonding is performed to establish electrical connections. To protect the delicate components from environmental damage, the chip and wires are typically encapsulated with an epoxy or silicone material. This process is often referred to as "soft encapsulation," as it provides a flexible and protective layer around the sensitive parts of the LED.

COB technology eliminates the need for complex surface mount processes, making it easier to integrate into various lighting fixtures. The chip is mounted directly onto the base, and only the necessary leads are connected for power supply. This not only reduces the number of components but also enhances the overall reliability of the system.

However, because the assembly of COB packages is often done manually, especially in certain production environments, there is a higher risk of defects compared to fully automated processes. This can lead to variations in quality and performance, which must be carefully managed during manufacturing.

**Analysis of Causes of LED Failure in COB Packages**

Although LED chips have a theoretical lifespan of up to 100,000 hours under ideal conditions, real-world performance is often limited by factors such as packaging, driving circuits, and heat dissipation. In general lighting applications, the actual lifespan of LED products rarely exceeds 30,000 hours. Some products even fail within just a few months of use, highlighting the importance of improving reliability.

Common failure modes in COB-based LED products include chip failure, package failure, electrical stress, thermal stress, and assembly issues. These problems can arise due to poor thermal management, substandard materials, or improper handling during the manufacturing and installation processes. By identifying and addressing these failure points, manufacturers can significantly enhance the durability and performance of their LED lighting solutions.

**Features of COB-Based LED Products**

LED lighting systems are typically composed of three main components: the heat sink, the driver circuit, and the light source. The light source section includes the LED chip and secondary optical elements like lenses, reflectors, and diffusers. A typical application model is illustrated in Figure 1.

Analysis of Causes of LED Failure in COB Package

As a core component of the lighting system, the COB module plays a crucial role in delivering efficient and consistent illumination. Unlike traditional SMD LEDs, COB modules do not require individual mounting processes. Instead, they are directly connected to the base or housing, simplifying the assembly and reducing the risk of mechanical damage. However, since many COB assemblies are still done manually, there is a greater potential for human error, which can affect long-term performance.

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