View Single Post
Unread 08-23-2004, 06:44 PM   #103
Cathar
Thermophile
 
Cathar's Avatar
 
Join Date: Sep 2002
Location: Melbourne, Australia
Posts: 2,538
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Ruiner
Hmmm. So how long until someone markets a rad of thickness/fin density of that honda unit, but in PC sizes (single and double 120, with shrouds and 1/2" barbs)?
Changing the radiator for 12x12cm, as opposed to 16x16cm which is what was being proposed, significantly alters the pressure drop and no longer makes such a radiator as "tuned" for low-speed fans. The Black Ice Pro and Pro-II are already quite close to exactly what you're asking for, in terms of thickness and fin density (20mm thick, 16FPI from my understanding). Problem there though is that even though it's pressure drop is fairly low due to the decreased thickness, so does its efficiency fall away in reference to what was proposed.

Moving from 16x16 to 12x12 almost halves the effective core facial surface area, and as a consequence, almost halves the amount of air-flow you will get through the thing at the same air-pressures.

That's not to say that 12x12cm radiators can't be done well, but it's a MUCH larger challenge than using a 16x16cm radiator. Given that all cases are at least 16cm wide (to cater for 5.25" drives and the like plus mounting) it seemed like a decent size to use.
Cathar is offline   Reply With Quote