Take your Intel CPU apart for a DIY liquid metal alternative.
Take your Intel CPU apart for a DIY liquid metal alternative.
I upgraded my 8086K setup to liquid metal and a delid. After a smooth installation, I noticed improved performance compared to previous setups. However, I learned that liquid metal can be tricky and may require replacement every few years. I decided to experiment further by swapping the LM with Noctua NT-H1 for the die, IHS, and cooler. The key change was using a $16 pure copper IHS instead of the original Intel one. This setup delivered significant temperature reductions and eliminated the risk of LM failure, which could damage the IHS or die. My maximum temperatures during stress tests now stay below 88°C, and I can comfortably reach around 70°C. If you're considering a pure copper IHS, I recommend doing so for better longevity and performance.
The main variation comes from the IHS to die gap rather than just the TIM. It's hard to say for sure in your situation, but most reports I've seen mention weak delidding performance, likely because they didn't take out the old adhesive. If you didn't remove all the old glue during delidding, that gap remains too wide. Maybe the copper IHS helped fix this? In my experience, removing the old glue and using LM cut the max load temperature by about 15-20°C.
I cleared all the old adhesive during the initial attempt. It's possible I didn't apply enough of it the first time.
LM applications can be challenging; I've noticed creators seeming to master them yet still facing issues, so retrying often improves outcomes. Perhaps the method used for pooling matters.
Great concept and trial! You missed that LM is also conductive, so if it leaks outside the die, your CPU could be damaged.
I replaced the IHS with an aftermarket version, but I’m checking if the original was the problem. The aftermarket should be perfectly flat, ensuring strong contact with your heatsink—likely maintaining 99%+ efficiency. I’m wondering about the original IHS’s contact quality and whether smoothing it (wet sanding) would have improved heat transfer. If the interface between IHS and cooler isn’t optimal, temperatures will drop. I have an i7-5820k and am considering lapping it to boost performance, especially with my triple 360mm radiator setup. I’ll verify the flatness during my next service.