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Heat sink paste is used to increase thermal conductivity between a processor and heat sink, preventing overheating and damage. It fills gaps between rough surfaces and is applied in thin layers. It’s important to wear gloves and avoid over-application.
Heat sink paste is a product designed to increase thermal conductivity between a processor and a heat sink used to draw heat away from the processor. Heat sinks are an important cooling component in an electronic system, designed to keep the processor from overheating while it is running. Heat sink paste or a similar thermal conductor is usually applied in the factory when the products are manufactured, and people who build their own electronics also use heat sink paste in their work.
While a processor is running, it can get extremely hot. If the heat cannot be dissipated, the heat can build up and eventually damage the processor, causing the system to fail. Heat sinks are installed in close proximity to the processors to conduct heat, and typically a fan is mounted near the heat sink to vent the heat, keeping the system as cool as possible. However, the space between the processor and the heat sink can create highly inefficient energy transfer, as air does not conduct heat well. Heat sink paste is used to close that gap with a conductive substance.
On a macro level, the heat sink and processor can feel as if they are firmly pressed against each other, with no air gaps. However, at the microscopic level, the surfaces are coarse. The rough surfaces do not meet, allowing for air pockets. Heat sink paste, made from various conductive materials such as metals suspended in a silicone paste, fills these gaps.
This substance is greasy and slightly fluid. Only a very thin layer is needed to effectively draw heat away from the processor. Many manufacturers produce a variety of brand names and may sell them under generic labels such as “thermal paste” or some variant thereof. The products usually come in applicators to make it easier for people to apply small dots of heat sink paste to electronic components.
When working with heat sink paste, it’s a good idea to wear gloves. While the product is harmless to the touch in most cases, it is greasy and difficult to remove. Wearing gloves will help people keep their hands clean. If an applicator is not available, you can use a toothpick or similar object to pick up small amounts of the heat sink paste and deposit it. It’s important to avoid over-application, as a little paste goes a long way. If too much is applied, when the heat sink and processor are pushed back together, the paste can squeeze between them and create a mess.
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