When it comes to building a high-performance water-cooled system, the choice of screws used to mount the radiator and fans is a crucial consideration. Selecting the right screw size can ensure a secure and stable installation, preventing potential damage to the components and optimizing the overall cooling efficiency. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the intricacies of screw sizes for water cooling radiators, providing you with the knowledge and insights to make an informed decision.
Understanding Radiator Screw Sizes
Water cooling radiators typically utilize three common screw sizes: M3, M4, and 6-32. The choice of screw size depends on the specific manufacturer and the thickness of the fans being used. Let’s explore these screw sizes in more detail:
M3 Screws
M3 screws are commonly used by Alphacool and newer Watercool (Heatkiller) radiators. These screws have a thread diameter of 3 millimeters and are often preferred for their smaller size and compatibility with thinner fans.
Key Specifications:
– Thread Diameter: 3 mm
– Commonly used by: Alphacool, Watercool (Heatkiller)
– Suitable for: Thinner fans (up to 25 mm)
M4 Screws
M4 screws are the most widely used screw size for water cooling radiators. Manufacturers like Corsair, Hardware Labs, EKWB, and many others recommend M4 screws for their radiator models.
Key Specifications:
– Thread Diameter: 4 mm
– Commonly used by: Corsair, Hardware Labs, EKWB, Koolance
– Suitable for: Fans up to 38 mm thick
– Recommended Screw Length: Fan Thickness + 5 mm
6-32 Screws
Some older EK Coolstream and Coolstream Classic radiators, as well as many Chinese-made radiators, utilize imperial 6-32 screws. These screws have a thread diameter of approximately 3.5 mm and are less common in modern water cooling setups.
Key Specifications:
– Thread Diameter: Approximately 3.5 mm
– Commonly used by: Older EK Coolstream, Coolstream Classic, and some Chinese-made radiators
– Suitable for: Fans of varying thicknesses
Selecting the Correct Screw Size
To ensure a secure and compatible installation, it’s essential to match the screw size to the specific radiator and fan combination you’re using. Here are some guidelines to help you choose the right screws:
-
Consult the Manufacturer’s Recommendations: Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions or specifications for the recommended screw size and length for your radiator model. This information is crucial to avoid any compatibility issues or potential damage to the components.
-
Consider Fan Thickness: The thickness of the fans you’re using will also play a role in determining the appropriate screw length. As a general rule, the screw length should be the fan thickness plus an additional 5 mm to provide a secure and stable mounting.
-
Maintain a Collection of Screw Sizes: To be prepared for different radiator and fan combinations, it’s recommended to have a collection of M3, M4, and 6-32 screws in various lengths. This will allow you to easily adapt to different setups and ensure a proper fit.
-
Measure Screw Lengths Carefully: When selecting screws, pay close attention to the length. Choosing screws that are too long can potentially damage the radiator, while screws that are too short may not provide a secure mounting.
-
Utilize Screw Kits Designed for Water Cooling: Manufacturers like Koolance offer specialized screw kits designed for water cooling radiators, providing a range of screw sizes and lengths to accommodate different fan thicknesses.
Practical Examples and Recommendations
To further illustrate the screw size considerations, let’s look at some specific examples:
Corsair and Hardware Labs Radiators
For Corsair and Hardware Labs radiators, the recommended screw size is M4 with a length equal to the fan thickness plus 5 mm. For example, if you’re using 25 mm thick fans, the recommended screw length would be 30 mm (25 mm + 5 mm).
EKWB and Hardwarelabs Surface Radiators
EKWB and Hardwarelabs surface radiators also utilize M4 screws. The screw length should be chosen based on the fan thickness, following the same principle of fan thickness plus 5 mm.
Alphacool and Watercool (Heatkiller) Radiators
Alphacool and newer Watercool (Heatkiller) radiators typically use M3 screws. The screw length should be selected based on the fan thickness, ensuring a secure and stable mounting.
Koolance Radiator Mounting Screw & Nut
The Koolance Radiator Mounting Screw & Nut, 38 mm, is an example of an M4 screw set designed for fans up to 38 mm thick. These screws provide a standard M4 thread and leave approximately 3 mm of clearance, making them a versatile choice for various radiator and fan combinations.
Conclusion
Selecting the correct screw size for your water cooling radiator is a crucial step in building a high-performance and reliable system. By understanding the different screw sizes, their specifications, and the manufacturer’s recommendations, you can ensure a secure and compatible installation, optimizing the cooling efficiency of your water-cooled setup.
Remember to always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines, consider the fan thickness, and maintain a collection of various screw sizes and lengths to be prepared for different radiator and fan combinations. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to make informed decisions and achieve the best possible results in your water cooling endeavors.