Do I need a fan?

[gar732]

I will have seven 3w cree LEDs on a 6x8.5" heatsink and I won't be running them at more than about 50%. Do you guys think I can get away with not running a fan on these? Thanks

 

[Reef Breeders]

You can do it just fine, if it gets too hot to touch, that means you need a fan. With 7 LEDs, just make sure you have a large enough open area around the sink

 

[btkrausen]

Yeah, I don't see any issue with that. I'm running 36 x 3w LEDs on a 24" inch with no heat issues at all.

 

[gar732]

I was wanting to make an acrylic enclosure around the heatsink to give it a more finished look but I was planning on making vents on the sides and top of it, still think it will be ok?

 

[btkrausen]

As long as the heat can dissipate from the top it should be ok

 

[gar732]

Sweet, I've got to get going on this light for the nano competition.