Radiator stacking affects temperatures.
Radiator stacking affects temperatures.
I have limited space in my H440, and I’m happy with my case :O. I’d like to cool my crossfire 290 (390FVbios) using water, preferably with a NZXT G10 bracket.
Anyway, here are my questions:
One, will there be a noticeable temperature difference with double stacked radiators? Based on what I understand and can guess, it should be almost the same since airflow still plays a role.
Two, am I planning to purchase two H50 units (H55?) to cool the 290s? Would that be sufficient?
Stacking radiators isn't an effective cooling method, as many tests have shown significant loss of performance in the second radiator. Additionally, you're trying to cool a GPU with power consumption between 275-300 watts using a slim 120mm aluminum radiator and a weak pump that only manages around 130-140 watts. You're planning to overclock the GPUs by adding extra heat output. Running the radiator outside via the case grommets isn't advisable—it would void the warranty and complicate maintaining a proper sealed system.
Stacking radiators isn’t the best cooling method, many tests have shown significant loss of performance, especially on the second radiator. Also, trying to cool a 275-300 watt GPU using a thin 120mm aluminum radiator and a weak pump that only manages around 130-140 watts won’t be effective. You’re planning to overclock the GPUs, so you should increase their heat output. Running the radiator outside via the case grommets isn’t advisable—it would void the warranty and complicate maintaining a proper sealed system.
Stacking radiators isn't an effective cooling method, as performance drops significantly on the second radiator. For a 275-300 watt GPU running at stock speeds with a thin 120mm aluminum radiator and a weak pump (only managing 130-140 watts), you should consider increasing the heat output from each unit. Running the radiators outside via the case grommets isn't advisable—it would void the warranty and complicate re-sealing in a closed loop cooler. I'm not pushing for closed loop coolers; they don’t meet my standards and are poorly built with cheap parts. My case is already modified to include an AIO loop outside, which should suffice (slits in the case for wiring extending from grommets through metal). I’m unsure if I need an H80 or an NZXT X41, but I don’t have the budget for a full open loop system.
Discarding the concept, only one card reaches 85+ under pressure anyway. Space is too limited for a mid-tower. Choose selected.