Heat sink paste is a vital component in any PC, and it plays a crucial role in keeping your computer cool. It’s applied between the contact surfaces of your CPU and the cooler, improving heat transfer and lowering the temperature. Although the contact surfaces on both the processor and cooler may appear perfectly smooth, they have microscopic imperfections that trap air, one of the worst thermal conductors. Without proper thermal paste, the CPU will run about 20-30 degrees hotter under load.
There are several different types of thermal paste available on the market, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The best pastes are made from liquid metal, such as a variation of gallium alloys, and have high thermal conductivities. The downside is that these pastes are typically more expensive and can be difficult to apply evenly. Some have the added disadvantage of containing gallium, which is highly corrosive to aluminium, and cannot be used with some coolers.
There are also DIY methods for making your own thermal paste, but these often have a lower level of performance and longevity than the specialized products designed for this purpose. One such method involves using egg whites. Using this unconventional solution can be a quick and affordable option for emergency situations, but it is not recommended as a permanent replacement for a high-quality commercial product.
Heat Sink Paste
Heat sink paste is a vital component in any PC, and it plays a crucial role in keeping your computer cool. It’s applied between the contact surfaces of your CPU and the cooler, improving heat transfer and lowering the temperature. Although the contact surfaces on both the processor and cooler may appear perfectly smooth, they have microscopic imperfections that trap air, one of the worst thermal conductors. Without proper thermal paste, the CPU will run about 20-30 degrees hotter under load.
There are several different types of thermal paste available on the market, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The best pastes are made from liquid metal, such as a variation of gallium alloys, and have high thermal conductivities. The downside is that these pastes are typically more expensive and can be difficult to apply evenly. Some have the added disadvantage of containing gallium, which is highly corrosive to aluminium, and cannot be used with some coolers.
There are also DIY methods for making your own thermal paste, but these often have a lower level of performance and longevity than the specialized products designed for this purpose. One such method involves using egg whites. Using this unconventional solution can be a quick and affordable option for emergency situations, but it is not recommended as a permanent replacement for a high-quality commercial product.