Liquid Cooler Mount Question

[AwesomeMarioFan]

Hi,

 

I am currently using an ATX server case which will not allow me to fit a good air cooler in it (such as a Hyper 212 EVO). Because of this, I am currently using a Cooler Master Hyper T2, but it is not keeping my CPU cool when under load (it is hitting almost 100 degrees C). Would I be able to mount a 120mm liquid cooler in my case using something like velcro? There is a spot where it looks like there is enough space for me to mount one on the top, but wasn't sure what to use to hold it in place. Also, what would the maximum TDP be of a 120mm liquid cooler? I was looking specifically at the EVGA CL11.

[Avanta8]

How do we know if you don't say what case you have

[AwesomeMarioFan]

7 minutes ago, Avanta8 said:

How do we know if you don't say what case you have

I apologize for not adding that, it is an Intel Server Chassis P4000. I measured it and I found that there should be enough space on top to mount the liquid cooler, but I was wondering what I could use to hold it in place.

[Bombastinator]

48 minutes ago, AwesomeMarioFan said:

I apologize for not adding that, it is an Intel Server Chassis P4000. I measured it and I found that there should be enough space on top to mount the liquid cooler, but I was wondering what I could use to hold it in place.

LTT has done several servers with liquid cooling.  My memory is custom brackets were used but I’m not at all sure.  Radiators don’t have a lot of force on them so the Velcro connection shouldn’t be a problem.  Checking what temps it can withstand should be done though. It is plastic after all.  The only complication with Velcro is that it is basically removable double stick tape. Both back sides have adhesive backs.  It is not impossible that there could be a heat issue with the adhesive.  Using Velcro designed for sewing and then applying your own heat resistant adhesive is an option though.  I might even look at that mushroom adhesive stuff.  It is supposed to have better thermal resistance. It’s also stronger, but I don’t think that is important in this application.  One thing you may want to avoid is “quiet” Velcro.  It is done by partially slicing through the Velcro hooks making them bend easier.  Normally the only complication is it goes bad faster, and the thing won’t be frequently removed and inserted so that wouldn’t be an issue, but the cuts also make the things less thermally conductive which could be a problem in marginal situations.   Double stick foam tape might also be an option.  It’s lots cheaper, and while only good for a single use I doubt there will be many instances of removal if you are careful about how you set things up.  Double stick foam tape is a standard go-to for hard drive mounting if no screw mount is available.

Edited March 14, 2021 by Bombastinator