Why do some through-hole LEDs have flared leads?

I have worked with many through-hole LEDs over the years. I ordered a bunch for a personal project. I did not notice they have flared leads until I used them. I've never encountered these flared leads before. What is their purpose?

PCB Assembly
November 30, 2023

They are stand-offs to position the LED above the PCB in a consistent way since the manufacturers often recommend not having the LED directly against the PCB.

Oliver Smith

Oliver is an experienced electronics engineer skilled in PCB design, analog circuits, embedded systems, and prototyping. His deep knowledge spans schematic capture, firmware coding, simulation, layout, testing, and troubleshooting. Oliver excels at taking projects from concept to mass production using his electrical design talents and mechanical aptitude.

Oliver Smith

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Why do some through-hole LEDs have flared leads?

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