How Opal Diffusers Films and Prismatic Sheets Achieve UGR<19 Low-Glare LED Panels
Modern lighting design places a strong emphasis not only on brightness but also on visual comfort. In offices, schools, retail spaces, and other workplaces, lighting that produces glare can cause eye strain, headaches, and reduced productivity. This is why UGR<19 compliant LED panels have become highly valued in commercial and professional environments. These panels are engineered to provide soft, low-glare illumination by combining optical materials that work together to produce a smooth, uniform light output.
Understanding UGR<19 Standards:
GR stands for Unified Glare Rating, a standard used to measure discomfort glare in indoor lighting. A rating below 19 is considered suitable for workplaces such as offices, classrooms, healthcare facilities, and meeting rooms. To achieve such a score, LED panels must be designed to control the beam angle, hide LED hotspots, and diffuse light evenly across the surface. This is accomplished through a thoughtful combination of optical layers, specifically the prismatic sheet and the opal film.
How the Opal Film and Prismatic Sheet Work Together
Premium UGR<19 LED panels often feature an opal light effect. This effect is created by pairing a translucent or semi-opal diffuser film with a solid prismatic sheet. Each component plays a unique and essential role in controlling the light output.
The clear prismatic sheet acts as the primary optical controller. Its micro-structured surface bends and redirects the light, reducing harsh angles and minimizing direct glare. Without this optical control, LED panels would produce an uncomfortable level of brightness that can strain the eyes.
While the prismatic sheet manages the beam angle, the opal film takes care of visual uniformity. LED chips are very bright at individual points, and without diffusion, these hotspots would be visible through the panel. The translucent film softens and blends these points into an even glow. When combined, the result is a smooth lighting surface that looks refined, clean, and comfortable to view.
How These Components Are Assembled
We supply both the prismatic sheets and the diffuser films, which can be paired using different assembly methods. In many LED panel designs, the two components are mechanically combined—held together by the frame, a support structure, or the pressure created during panel assembly.
In some cases, the film is bonded directly to the prismatic sheet. This bonding creates a single integrated diffuser layer, which can simplify installation and provide additional stability. However, this method is not always necessary, especially in LED panels that include a Light Guide Plate (LGP).
Why Bonding Is Not Used in LGP-Based Panels
LED panels that rely on a Light Guide Plate use a stack of precision-engineered optical layers. These typically include:
- a reflective film
- the LGP
- an optical diffuser film
- the prismatic sheet
Because these components are tightly compressed by the panel frame and held in place by the assembly method, bonding the diffuser film to the prismatic sheet is unnecessary. The structure is already secure, and the light distribution is controlled by the interaction of all layers working together.
Material Example: Plexi Honeycomb + Opto90 PET225
The photo example uses Plexi Honeycomb paired with Opto90 PET225, a combination known for excellent diffusion and optical performance. The honeycomb structure enhances beam shaping while the opto film ensures LED hotspots are completely hidden.
Conclusion
A premium UGR<19 LED panel is the result of precise engineering and careful material selection. By combining a prismatic sheet with an opal diffuser film, manufacturers create a panel that delivers uniform, low-glare illumination ideal for workplaces and professional environments. Whether bonded or mechanically paired, these optical components work together to ensure a visually comfortable lighting solution that meets modern ergonomic standards. Feel free to contact us.