Guide to LED light pipes
LED technology extends far beyond the diode itself. An LED light pipe enables efficient and reliable, well-placed illumination. LED holders secure components in place, while LED mounts and LED spacers keep them aligned for accurate light placement. This guide looks at each of these elements, along with other LED hardware, and their role in creating reliable lighting solutions across industries. We’ll cover:
What is an LED light pipe?
LED light pipe functions
Mounting hardware
Applications & industries
Benefits and characteristics
What is an LED light pipe?
An LED, or light-emitting diode, produces light from a small, efficient semiconductor component. A light pipe is a clear plastic element that captures that light and delivers it to a different location, usually from the PCB to an external surface like a front panel. It’s a practical solution when the LED can’t be placed where the light needs to appear.
For example, our own range of LED light piping is designed to provide a crystal-clear conduit for transporting light from an LED source to a desired location, with minimal light loss. These vertical LED light pipes, also known as PCB pipes, couple to surface-mount LEDs and carry light to the panel while keeping the PCB isolated from touch, improving electrostatic discharge (ESD) robustness. Domed and flat front options let you set the viewing profile and appearance. Light pipe material: polycarbonate (PC).
LED light pipe functions
LED light pipes are a common light piping solution in electronic assemblies where optical indicators are required but direct LED placement is not feasible. Their functions are primarily mechanical and optical, supporting both design flexibility and user interface clarity.
● Light re-routing
A light pipe transfers light from an LED to a visible area elsewhere in the enclosure. This allows designers to position LEDs for optimal board layout while still delivering light to a user-facing location.
● Mechanical separation
An LED light pipe creates physical separation between the LED and the interface surface, which is especially useful in sealed or modular designs where the electronics must be isolated from the external environment.
● Optical clarity and focus
When designed correctly, a light pipe preserves the brightness and colour of the LED without introducing significant loss or distortion. It also helps contain the light to its intended path, avoiding bleed into nearby indicators.
● Environmental isolation
A light pipe allows the LED to remain inside the enclosure, which means you don't have to break a sealed surface just to make the light visible. This is especially useful in designs that need to meet IP ratings or operate in harsh conditions.
● Support for clean industrial design
Light pipes make it possible to deliver light to tight, curved, or visually sensitive areas without exposing the LED or wiring, which supports cleaner mechanical integration and better aesthetics.
Mounting hardware
An LED pipe assembly typically consists of more than just the light guide itself. To ensure proper alignment, stability, and optical performance, additional components are often required.
LED lens holders
Built to fit a standard T-13/4 LED and shapes the output into a 10-degree beam, making it useful for applications that need directional control. These LED lens holders are mould from UL94 V2-rated polycarbonate (PC) for durability and flame resistance. They are available in two configurations: a standalone cover, or a cover with an integrated neoprene rubber O-ring for added protection against dust and water ingress. The O-ring is black, and the lens holder itself is clear and transparent. Installation is tool-free—the holder simply snaps into place by hand for fast, secure assembly.
LED mounts – 90
LED mounts play a key role in positioning and securing LEDs within a circuit or enclosure. They help ensure the LED stays properly aligned, protected from damage, and directed for the best possible light output.
These holders make it easy to mount LEDs at a right angle, which is especially useful when light needs to be directed sideways rather than straight ahead. Designed for quick, tool-free installation, they can be fitted by hand without hassle. Two versions are available to suit both T-1 and T-1 3/4 size LEDs, giving you flexibility to match your component choice.
LED spacers – square
These LED spacers come in two styles and are designed to fit both T-1 and T-1 3/4 LEDs. They maintain a fixed distance between the LED and the circuit board, which helps prevent shifting and keeps the LED at a consistent height during assembly. The square body is useful for angled mounting or off-board applications. Each LED spacer is moulded from black PVC for durability and ease of handling.
LED spacers – round, metric spacers
These LED spacers are offered in three distinct styles to support both T-1 and T-1 3/4 LEDs. They provide reliable height control along with lead wire retention and stabilisation during assembly. Each spacer features a self-retaining design, making them suitable for automated insertion and pre-assembly processes.
We recommend you learn more in our Guide to PCB spacers.
You’ll also find it helpful to check out our experts' guide, Three top tips for selecting PCB spacers.
Applications & industries
The following tables outline common application types and industries where LED lights and their supporting components, such as light pipes, LED holders, and LED spacers, are used to meet performance, design, and environmental requirements.
Our experts explain more in LED light guide for product and panel building.
|
Industry |
Typical use cases |
|
Industrial automation |
Control panels, PLCs, sensors, & HMI interfaces |
|
Automotive & transportation |
Dashboards, interior controls, diagnostic systems, EV charging stations |
|
Medical devices |
Diagnostic tools, monitors, & surgical instruments requiring reliable visual output |
|
Telecommunications & networking |
Routers, switches, & server hardware for status indication |
|
Consumer electronics |
Smart devices, wearables, audio gear, & charging units |
|
Test & measurement |
Visual feedback in meters, scopes, & portable diagnostic equipment |
|
Defense & aerospace |
Compact, vibration-resistant indicators in rugged systems |
|
Application |
Description |
|
Status & indicator lighting |
Signals power, activity, faults, or connectivity on panels & control systems |
|
Backlighting |
Provides even illumination for keypads, displays, & overlays |
|
Optical alignment & sensing |
Used in encoders, proximity sensors, & photo-interrupters for light delivery or detection |
|
Sealed enclosure illumination |
Enables internal LED placement without breaching sealed or IP-rated housings |
|
Directional lighting |
Delivers focused light output using lens covers or shaped guides |
What components will your PCB need? You can learn more in Circuit Board Hardware – The Design Engineer's Guide.
Benefits and characteristics
The tables below outline the key benefits and defining characteristics of LED light pipes and related components, highlighting the performance, design, and durability advantages they bring to a wide range of applications.
|
Benefit |
Description |
|
Energy efficiency |
Low power consumption reduces heat output & extends battery life |
|
Compact form factor |
Small size supports dense PCB layouts & slim enclosures |
|
Long service life |
Typical lifespans exceed 50,000 hours, reducing maintenance needs |
|
Design flexibility |
Components like light pipes & mounts allow remote LED placement |
|
Characteristic |
Description |
|
Directional control |
Light output can be focused or diffused using lenses and light pipe geometry |
|
Colour fidelity |
Maintains wavelength consistency over long service periods |
|
Mechanical stability |
Spacers & mounts keep LEDs secure during assembly & use |
|
Thermal resilience |
Designed to operate across a wide range of temperatures for industrial use |
Download free CADs and try before you buy
Free CADs are available for most solutions, which you can download. If you’re not quite sure which light pipe and components will work best for your application, our experts are always happy to advise you.
Whatever your requirements, you can depend on fast dispatch.
Questions?
Email us at sales@essentracomponents.com or speak to one of our experts for further information on the ideal solution for your application 800-847-0486.