Does the metal used in fittings matter/mixing metals?

[Coaxialgamer]

I'm building a cheapo loop for my graphics cards . I'm well aware about not mixing metals , so both my waterblock and radiators will be aluminum.

That said , i've found pretty nice brass fittings . Is it a problem if i use those ?

 

Also , are there any metal combinations that do not cause problems ?

[Grifterguru]

From my basic understanding of the situation, if you mix metals, you will need to insert a (silver) kill coil in your resevoir as well as run an anti-corrosive.

Not 100% positive, but those with a better knowledge should be along soon to correct me if I am wrong as well as give an opinion based on experience.

[Windows7ge]

A silver coil acts as anti-bacterial agent. Keeps any of that from growing. It doesn't have any anti-corrosive properties though.

 

The major metals to not mix are Copper & Aluminum but also Copper & Nickel.

 

A lot of fittings are brass or some sort of silver/chrome/painted brass. These should be fine.

[For Science!]

45 minutes ago, Coaxialgamer said:

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Yes, brass is an issue for aluminium blocks and radiators. exactly to what degree will depend on the composition of brass and grade of aluminium. Silver is a bad idea for aluminium as well.

 

The safest by far is to get aluminium fittings from the EK-Fluid Gaming series. And to get a coolant suitable for mixed metals that have anticorrosives included - EK Cryofuel is known to be fine for Aluminium. Other Ethylene/Propylene Glycol based coolants should also be suitable depending on the tubing you sue.

 

https://www.ekfluidgaming.com/parts/

[Tam3n]

It's best to go either all aluminum, or with no aluminium at all. Copper, nickel, brass (and even stainless) can exist in the same loop without much of an issue. Of course, if you really don't care about the corrosion, go for it.