Is a Transparent Cover Necessary for 25W 600mA LED Strip in Aluminum U Channel?

Hi, I am planning on running about 25W of LEDs ( @600ma) inside some aluminium ”U channel” as a heatsink, do you think it is necessary to have a transparent cover over the top for safety. (I would rather not)
Any advice is much appreciated.

Nick,
25 W @ 600 mA is close to 42 V which is right on the edge of safe voltage. I'm assuming the "U channel" is grounded so I'd consider some sort of cover over the connections to prevent someone from touching a live voltage. Depending on the LEDs and construction techniques, you might be able to use insulated connectors, RTV or heat shrink rather than a cover over the whole assembly.

On the other hand, you might find that a cover over the LEDs will prevent glare as well as providing the necessary safety.

50volts is seems to be the accepted maximum for safety. If the voltage to your system exceeds this you need some form of protection. Elizabeth also makes a good point about the cover preventing glare.

I would like to add that just because you have a heat sink, it doesn’t mean that elements of the assembly (including the heat sink itself) won’t get hot enough to burn human skin. Electrical safety isn’t the only thing to consider.

Many thanks Elizabeth and Aubrey.

Thx you Elizabeth Simon for your informative reply!