LED Lead Forming: Cut, Bent and Custom Lead Options for Through-Hole LEDs
Quick answer: through-hole LEDs can be supplied with factory-cut and pre-formed leads (L-bend, Z-bend, standoff heights) that drop straight into your housing — specify lead length, bend dimensions and polarity orientation in a drawing.
Standard Options
- Cut leads: specified length (e.g. 15 mm) for hand or wave solder.
- L-bend / right angle: LED axis horizontal for edge-of-board mounting.
- Z-bend / standoff: fixed height above the PCB for panel alignment.
- Custom forming: per drawing, including taped-and-reeled radial parts for auto-insertion.
Why Factory Forming Beats Hand Bending
Bending at the epoxy body cracks wire bonds — bends must start below the lens base with proper tooling. Factory-formed leads are consistent, strain-free and inspection-ready.
What to Specify
- Dimensional drawing with lead length and bend points.
- Polarity: which lead (anode/cathode) goes where after forming.
- Packaging: bulk, ammo pack or radial tape-and-reel.
Pair formed leads with LED holders for precise panel height without any bending at all.
Hongcheng Optoelectronics, a member of Guangyu Group, is a 20+ years LED packaging manufacturer with 40 automated ASM lines and 200KK pcs monthly capacity. Free samples and PDF datasheets are available in our datasheet center; browse the product center or contact us for a bulk quote.
