Question about PSU bracket screws, metal particles, and whether to overthink or just go with it.
Question about PSU bracket screws, metal particles, and whether to overthink or just go with it.
I've likely shared something similar before but with a fresh setup and some unexpected twists.
I rebuilt my rig inside a Silent Base 802 white case. The difference from the previous one is that the PSU screws into a removable bracket, making installation from the back easier.
I made sure not to be too aggressive with the bracket screws, but while removing the PSU for cable management recently, I found tiny metal particles stuck to the threads. I also noticed small black paint chips on the floor where the PSU is placed. After cleaning up with a vacuum around that area, I reinserted the PSU and carefully put it back in.
My worry is that the screws might be releasing microscopic metal particles, which could end up near the PSU intake fan—something I definitely don’t want close to the fan. I’m unsure if there are any particles inside the case without taking out the bracket, since doing so would require reinserting it later. This makes me uneasy because it seems like a risk that could lead to issues, especially since the PSU handles mains power and I’m not keen on causing trouble.
Or maybe I’m overcomplicating this with unnecessary concerns.
Anyone else have similar concerns? Or am I just going too far with this thought?
There's only so much you can convey with text until other forms of media are needed to illustrate what you're seeing and in this case, you're going to have to show us the extent of the metal shavings...yes they shouldn't be near your parts, or at the very least near parts/places where power is flowing and can bridge a gap that shouldn't be bridged.
Metal shavings during initial screw insertions are typical. This happens because the screw threads don’t perfectly match the case’s PSU bracket, or due to over-tightening which damages the threads and causes waste metal and paint residue. Painted screws look good, but the threads can lose paint when screws are tightened. As long as there aren’t too many shavings, it’s not a major concern. Your PC case should include a PSU filter for protection; however, if the built-in filter has large gaps, consider using a finer aftermarket filter. For example, Demciflex is one option I personally use. Link: https://www.demcifilter.com/magnetic-dus...an-filters
I should have considered that earlier. It wasn’t until I removed the bracket again and performed a detailed inspection with the hand vacuum that I noticed it. It was kept away from any PCBs and similar components. The largest piece I observed measured 1.5mm in length, but it appeared magnetized to the screw itself—possibly due to the tool used. It seems unlikely there’s much inside the case since I wasn’t able to remove it easily with high power on the vacuum. There were no visible shavings below the PSU area.
I reinserted the PSU bracket carefully and gently this time. Honestly, I think there’s nothing further I can do except replace them with a few drops of WD40, which feels a bit drastic.
My setup includes a filter positioned underneath the case, outside the vent grille. My main worry was that debris could be trapped inside the vent grille and enter the PSU. As Luftij mentioned, I removed it again and thoroughly checked with the hand vacuum, being very careful to align the screws and tighten them gently. This time there was little resistance. I also used a phone torch for inspection; nothing was visible below the PSU area, so I’m unlikely to find anything out of sight. I’m using the screws that came with the case, so it’s hard to understand why the threads would be different.