Thermal paste is used to transfer heat from one component to another. One of the most important parts of a thermal paste is its adhesive properties. All thermal pastes have some type of adhesive, but it can vary in terms of what kind and how much it sticks to a surface before it needs to be reapplied. This is an easy DIY guide that will teach you how to apply liquid metal thermal paste for all your computer components including: CPU, GPU, RAM, and motherboard.
What is thermal paste?
Thermal paste is a compound that’s used to transfer heat from one component to another, like when you need to cool down your CPU or GPU during gaming. It’s primarily made of metal with small amounts of resin added in to help the paste stick better. One of the most important parts of a thermal paste is its adhesive properties. All thermal pastes have some type of adhesive, but it can vary in terms of what kind and how much it sticks to a surface before it needs to be reapplied.
This post will teach you how to apply liquid metal thermal paste for all your computer components including: CPU, GPU, RAM, and motherboard.
Different types of thermal paste
There are three main types of thermal paste that you will come across when it comes to computer components:
1. Silicon Thermal Compound: This type is made of a silicon-containing material and is used on CPUs and GPU.
2. Liquid Metal Thermal Paste: This type of paste is made of a liquid metal (aluminum) and allow for easy transfer of heat between components. It works especially well with processors, RAM, and motherboard.
3. Ceramic Thermal Paste: This type is used on cases and heatsinks that have aluminum or copper in them to help transfer heat between two components through conduction. These types are typically applied to the CPU or GPU because they are dissipating heat through convection rather than conduction.
How to check if your CPU needs a new thermal paste
Before you can apply a new thermal paste to your CPU, you first need to check if it needs one.
If your CPU has been working for a long time and does not have any signs of problems with the thermal paste such as those shown in the image below, then chances are you don’t need to replace it.
This is because your CPU is already applying heat well enough to transfer heat from the processor by itself.
On the other hand, if your CPU’s fan is blowing more than usual and your motherboard’s LEDs are flashing constantly, then this could be a sign that the thermal paste is wearing out and needs to be replaced.
How to apply liquid metal thermal paste
In order to apply liquid metal thermal paste, you will need to take some time and be careful.
First, you will want to clean the area of the component you are going to paste on. Many people use alcohol prep pads or rubbing alcohol to remove any old residue or dirt from the surface.
Next, apply a small amount of liquid metal thermal paste onto your applicator. Make sure that it is a thin layer that is fully covering the surface of the component being applied to.
Now place your applicator on top of the component and use your index finger and thumb to spread out the paste evenly across the surface.
Next, make sure that there is no excess liquid metal thermal paste on your applicator by wiping it off with a paper towel before moving onto the next step.
Lastly, wipe away any excess paste with a clean paper towel or cloth and then reapply for another layer if needed.
Tips and tricks
It takes a little bit of practice to perfect the application of liquid metal thermal paste. So, here are some tips and tricks to help you along:
-First, determine where you want your liquid metal thermal paste applied. Once you decide where to apply it, choose an area that is easy to reach with the tip of your finger. Aim for any edges or corners- these are the most difficult parts of the surface to clean and will increase the chances of success.
-Next, make sure that your finger is wet before applying liquid metal thermal paste. This helps ensure that the adhesive will bond to the surface more effectively. One way to make sure your finger is wet enough is by dipping it in a bowl of water for about 15 seconds.
-Apply liquid metal thermal paste by pressing lightly on a fingertip until it starts to flow out from between your fingers. Then, continue tapping from one side of the surface until you have covered all areas that need coverage with liquid metal thermal paste.
-To remove excess liquid metal thermal paste after application, use a dry cloth or paper towel in a circular motion on top of whatever area was just covered in this material. This should loosen up any excess adhesive and help minimize messes as well
Conclusion
Thermal paste is an important part of your computer’s cooling system and will ensure your CPU doesn’t overheat. But there are a lot of different types, so when you’re applying it, it’s important to know what you’re doing and why.
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. We’ve compiled the best tips, tricks and DIY guides you need to know about liquid metal thermal paste. And with those tips, tricks and DIY guides, you’ll be able to apply liquid metal thermal paste like a pro. So what are you waiting for?
