Ls7corvett: it really depends on which heatpipe based HSF. Heatpipes have to be carefully caliberated to a specific thermal load in order to work properly. Some heatsinks are meant for only one thermal load; these are usually the ones with one big pipe (heatlane, or "superconducter" tube). Than there are "self caliberating" heatpipes. From what I've been told over on VR, these make up the majority of newer heatpipe HSFs that have multiple heatpipes. Each pipe is caliberated to take a certain load in a graduated fashion. e.g. the first pipe will be optimized for a 30w load, the second for a 60w load, and the final for a 100w load. That way the heatsink can handle a range from 30w to 190w, with each pipe essentially "kicking in" when a certain threshold is crossed. This is due to the fact that if there ins't enough thermal energy present, a heatpipe just won't work.
Try the skythe NCU 2000. It appears to be adaptable to a TEC.
What you are building is essentially a scaleable heatpipe system that can basically be assemled by anyone with a brain for very little $$$. I think it is a good idea worth pursuing. Just as a thought, try using alchol as the coolant. Shouldn't it expand more than water at the same temperature since it has a lower heat capacity?
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