Initial Custom Water Loop (High CPU Usage)
Initial Custom Water Loop (High CPU Usage)
It might also be that the delidded CPU doesn't provide as strong a contact as the AIO was achieving. CPU blocks are crafted and milled specifically to ensure full IHS contact. After delidding, it's important to verify that the milling adjustments have been properly considered for surface contact. This could be an uncommon factor in CPU temperature discussions. Would you like me to check the flush surface of the CPU against the CPU block using a straight edge? You might need to fine grit sand the block, and there are many online resources about waterblock compatibility for delidded CPUs.
Well I'm not sure how others handle it, but when I perform a delide on a CPU, the IHS resets. The CPU is just like any other non-delid one, except it has liquid metal between the top of the dye and bottom of the IHS. I use a high-temperature silicone to reattach the lid, so this shouldn't be a problem.
I could also add a few more fans to set up a push/pull configuration like I did with my AIO, but with the pump I opted for a room setup instead.
Here’s a revised version of your text:
I hope this helps. There are a few additional points to consider:
1. Because you selected the downward flow direction, examine the CPU block carefully. Place the case on its side and ensure no air bubbles remain inside. Gently tilt the case for a clearer view. A flashlight would be helpful.
2. Something appears inside the block—will need to take it apart and check it thoroughly.
3. This is more of a theory—silicon acts as a flexible adhesive, possibly stronger than the epoxy used in production. Removing the AIO might slightly pull the IHS, forming air gaps between the die and IHS.
Additional notes:
1. A 360 rad angle is sufficient to manage over 350 watts of TDP from components under load (CPU around 150W, GPU around 300W). At least with reasonable fan speeds.
2. EVOL tends to have limited airflow—removing mesh covers on the top cover openings could improve circulation.
3. TG Hydronaut is a very thick thermal paste; I’d apply a thin layer of plastic card on the IHS before installing the CPU block.
After having difficulty grasping my CPU temperatures, I chose to remove the whole system and discharge it. After that, I disassembled the CPU block to examine the jet I had installed. By going through the installation guide more carefully, I discovered my error—I positioned the copper block at a 90-degree angle instead of the correct orientation. This meant the fins inside should have been horizontal, but they were vertical. I think this misalignment was responsible for the significant slowdown in fluid flow and the erratic CPU temperature spikes, as it prevented proper fluid coverage. My temperatures dropped by about 10°C during a stress test, going from nearly 80°C to around 69-70°C after roughly 30 minutes. Idle temps were 28°C, game temps around 45°C, and under intense stress tests, around 70°C. These are the readings I experienced with my previous AIO system, but now I also appreciate the improved look and a cooler GPU at 45°C. Thank you all for your feedback and support! I’ll share final photos once the pump mounting bracket arrives!