Thermal pastes full guide: types, brands and applications

Thermal paste, also known as thermal grease or thermal compound, is used to create better thermal conductivity between two surfaces, such as a CPU or GPU and a heat sink. The main differences between the types of thermal paste are viscosity, color, odor and the materials they are made from. Choosing the right thermal paste is critical to ensure optimum performance and long life of electronic components.

Viscosity: Viscosity is a measure of a liquid's resistance to flow and can vary significantly between different types of thermal paste. Thermal paste viscosity can range from a thick, pasty consistency to a thinner, more liquid consistency. Higher viscosity pastes tend to fill voids and irregularities better, but can be more difficult to spread. Lower viscosity pastes are easier to spread but may not fill voids as effectively. It is important to consider viscosity when selecting a thermal paste, as this can affect the ease of application and the paste's ability to effectively fill the gaps between surfaces.

Color and odor: These characteristics are usually determined by the materials used to manufacture the thermal paste. Color and odor do not have a direct impact on performance, but may indicate the composition of the paste and the presence of certain ingredients. Some thermal pastes may have a strong odor due to the solvents used, while others may be odorless. The color can vary from white to dark gray or black, depending on the materials used in the paste.

Materials: There are three main types of thermal paste: silicone-based, metal-based and ceramic-based. Silicone-based pastes contain silicone and have low thermal conductivity, making them suitable for low power applications or where electrical insulation is required. Metal-based pastes contain metallic particles, such as silver or aluminum, and offer higher thermal conductivity. These pastes are ideal for high power applications, but can be electrically conductive, requiring careful application. Ceramic-based pastes contain ceramic particles, such as aluminum oxide or zinc oxide, and provide a balance between performance and safety. These pastes have moderate thermal conductivity and are generally not electrically conductive, making them suitable for a wide variety of applications.

Popular brands: There are a large number of brands of thermal paste on the market, and each has its own features and advantages. Some popular brands include Arctic Silver, Noctua, Thermal Grizzly, Arctic, Cooler Master and Stejar. For example, Arctic Silver 5 is a metal-based paste with high thermal conductivity but may be electrically conductive, requiring careful application. Noctua NT-H1 is a ceramic-based paste that is easy to apply and has good thermal performance without the risk of electrical conductivity. Thermal Grizzly Kryonaut is another popular ceramic-based thermal paste that offers excellent thermal conductivity and is ideal for high power applications. Cooler Master MasterGel Maker is a high-performance thermal paste that combines high thermal conductivity with easy application and long shelf life. The Stejar brand also offers various quality thermal pastes suitable for different needs and applications.

Diverse applications: Thermal paste is not only used in computers, but also in a wide variety of electronic devices and components, such as cameras, LEDs, televisions, automotive cooling systems and many others. In all these cases, thermal paste helps ensure efficient heat transfer and maintain optimal operating temperatures.

In-depth application: To apply the thermal paste correctly, it is important to follow a series of steps. First, clean the component and heatsink surfaces with isopropyl alcohol to remove any traces of grease or dirt. Next, apply a small pea-sized amount of paste to the center of the CPU or GPU and gently spread it out using a plastic card or your finger in a plastic bag. Some people prefer to apply a thin line of thermal paste or make a cross or X pattern, depending on the size and shape of the component. When installing the heatsink, the pressure will help spread the paste evenly. Be careful not to apply too much, as this can lead to inefficient heat transfer and poor performance.

Storage: To ensure the longevity of the thermal paste, proper storage is critical. Be sure to store the thermal paste in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. It is also important to keep the lid of the tube or container tightly closed to prevent the paste from drying out or becoming contaminated with dust or particles. By following these guidelines, the thermal paste should remain in good condition for an extended period of time.

Now, I would like to ask you three questions related to this topic:

1. on what type of electronic device or component do you plan to apply thermal paste?

2. Have you used thermal paste before and had any problems or difficulties you would like to address?

3. Do you have a preference for a specific brand of thermal paste or are you open to exploring new options?