Air Flow Opinions on a new WC'd build...

[kinghong1970]

Hey guys... got another WC'd project on hand and i'm a bit stuck on the airflow of this build.

the specs:
P5K Premium
QX6700
8800 Ultra
4GB Crucial Ballistix Tracer
CM Stacker 832

the WC parts:
D-Tek Fuzion
EK NB/SB
PA120.3
DDC 3.2
YL 70CFM fans

EK 8800 FC
PA160
DDC 3.2
YL 70 CFM fans

it's a dual loop build, 7/16" ID tubings and basically, i'm stuck on air flow.

1) i like to keep the PA160 on top
2) i dont want to use the fan grid at side panels
3) i will mount the MB in semi BTX style.

now, here's my 2 configurations...


this setup basically have most fans pulling cooler air into the case but i'm concerned about the positive pressure build within the case... i am hoping to do away with the mesh grills and replace the sides with plexiglass...


this setup, the bottom rad pushes inner air out of the case but i'm concerned that the the PA120.3 will not have cool air supply except maybe near the front of the case...

thoughts?

does option 1 make more sense? and keep one side of the case mesh so it provides air flow?

[ben333]

I'd blow out on the top.

[billbartuska]

Originally Posted by kinghong1970

Hey guys... got another WC'd project on hand and i'm a bit stuck on the airflow of this build.


this setup basically have most fans pulling cooler air into the case but i'm concerned about the positive pressure build within the case...

thoughts?

There won't be any "positive pressure build within the case", at least not more than a couple mm H2O. Whichever has the lower CFMs, intake or exhaust, the other will have the same airflow. Whatever goes in has to come out. Pressurer makes no diffeence. Balance the CFMs in with the CFMs out for the most efficient use of your fans. If you need more cooling add more CFMs to both intake and exhaust. If you can get a balanced setup with the rads exhausting so much the better. Don't forgre the rad fans won't be delivering their rated CFMs though.