Liquid metal GPU, loop configuration and cooling system.
Liquid metal GPU, loop configuration and cooling system.
Afternoon.
I have some questions about liquid metal and loop order.
A few months ago I delid my CPU and used liquid metal, which gave amazing results. Now I’m thinking about upgrading my 1080Ti and ended up buying this product:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B079TF...UTF8&psc=1
I checked and it should fit my card version, but I’m unsure whether to apply the metal liquid directly to the GPU or stick with regular thermal paste. Any concerns about using liquid metal here?
Also, what’s the correct loop order from reservoir to GPU to CPU to radiator? I have a photo of my setup (I know HARD TUBING is just extra info, please ignore it) and would really appreciate a picture showing the right sequence when installing the GPU.
Lastly, I believe the radiator size is 240mm—should I verify that when I get home? It looks thick, so I want to make sure it covers both the GPU and CPU adequately.
Thank you!
Only non-conductive materials should be used on the GPU. You'll see small capacitors nearby. If any liquid metal touches those areas, it could cause a short circuit. It's difficult to predict where the metal might end up once you close everything again. And if you make an error... stick to non-conductive options like MX4 or similar only.
urbancamper :
Only use non-conductive materials on the GPU. You’ll see small capacitors nearby. If liquid metal touches those points, it could cause a short circuit. It’s difficult to predict exactly where the liquid will spread once you close everything up. And if you make a mistake... stick to non-conductive options like MX4 or similar only.
Regarding the radiator, it depends on your overclock level. If it’s a radiator, upgrading to a 360mm might be beneficial.
For the order of components, I noticed the sequence: Radiator, CPU, GPU, Reservoir, Pump, Radiator.
I understand you’d prefer sticking with standard paste, especially given current GPU prices.
I own an i7-7700K at 5.0 GHz, with idle temps around 25°C and full load never exceeding 50°C. The GPU has been overclocked.
As for the loop configuration I thought I understood, from my setup photo: everything remains unchanged except disconnecting the left top tube on the CPU, allowing water to flow back to the reservoir. Then install a new tube from the CPU to the GPU and connect the first tube to the GPU so water returns to the reservoir.
Take out the exit tube from the CPU, attach it to the GPU intake, and link the GPU exit line to the reservoir. That's all that's needed. Enjoy your custom loop. I still recommend getting a 360mm radiator as well.
Which option do you prefer?
Urbancamper suggests disconnecting the exit tube from the CPU, connecting it to the GPU intake, and linking the GPU exit line to the reservoir. They also recommend getting a 360mm radiator.
the sequence should be chosen to minimize vertical zigzags.
the fluid flows extremely quickly, keeping the temperature gap between the hottest and coldest areas under just 1C.
a 240 rad setup can simultaneously cool both GPU and CPU using fans spinning at very loud 2000+ RPM.
to achieve a balanced cooling and quiet operation, select the biggest radiator available.
here are some choices:
4x120mm fans
http://www.performance-pcs.com/black-ice...arbon.html
3x140mm fans
http://www.performance-pcs.com/black-ice...arbon.html
the XFlow design simplifies filling and draining the loop while reducing flow restrictions.
I noticed I bought a 360mm unit and expect everything to be ready by next week, then I’ll provide an update.
I ran some tests last night to check temperatures on both CPU and GPU for comparison.
CPU idle at 20c under full load reached 58c, it got quite warm while playing Rainbow Six Siege.
GPU idle minimum at 32c with full load came up to 64c.
I’m hoping once the GPU reaches its optimal temperature the overall system will cool down more efficiently.
Notes:
the loop configuration should minimize as many vertical zigzags as possible.
The liquid circulates very quickly, so the temperature gap between the hottest and coldest areas in a loop stays under 1°C.
A 240 rad can effectively cool both GPU and CPU using fans spinning at over 2000 RPM.
If you want the system to stay cool without excessive noise, opt for the largest radiator available.
Here are some recommendations:
4x120mm fans – [link]
3x140mm fans – [link]
The XFlow model helps with smoother filling and draining of the loop while reducing flow restrictions.
I received my 360mm radiator, installed it after adding fresh distilled water, but temperatures remain unchanged without the GPU being warmed up. Wasn't it supposed to improve things?