How to correctly apply thermal conductive silicone grease? -Recommended thermal paste - Thermo

Common errors and misconceptions in applying thermal conductive silicone grease

1.Apply too much thermal grease
A common misconception is that the more thermal paste there is, the better the heat dissipation effect. In fact
, the function of thermal grease is to fill the small defects on the surface of the CPU and heat sink to improve
thermal conductivity. It is not the main conductor of heat. Excessive use can isolate heat sources and reduce heat
transfer efficiency. Ideally, apply a thin layer evenly, about the thickness of a piece of paper, or apply a pea sized
dot in the center under the pressure of the radiator.
2.Reuse old thermal grease

Reusing old thermal grease after disassembling the radiator or replacing components is another common mistake.
Used thermal grease will dry out and lose its thermal conductivity. When disassembling components, it is best to
thoroughly remove the old thermal grease and apply a layer of new grease to ensure optimal thermal contact.

3.Using the wrong type of thermal grease
Different thermal conductive pastes are designed for different applications and conditions. Some thermal conductive
 pastes contain metal based compounds that are conductive, and there is a risk if they diffuse onto electrical components
and cause a short circuit. Unless you are certain of the conductivity and safe application of the product, please choose
non-conductive thermal paste for general use.

4.Believe that all thermal conductive pastes are the same
There is a misconception that all thermal conductive pastes have equally good performance, so choosing which one is
not important. In fact, the composition of thermal paste varies - some include silver or ceramic particles to enhance
thermal conductivity. These differences can affect performance, especially in high-performance computing thermal
management. It is worthwhile to research and choose a thermal paste that suits your specific needs and budget.

5.Neglecting the application method
The effectiveness of thermal paste largely depends on the application method. Common methods include dot coating,
line coating, and application. Each method has its advantages, depending on the processor type and heat sink design. 
For example, CPUs with multiple cores may benefit from line drawing, ensuring that all cores are fully covered.
Understanding the most suitable application method for your hardware can ensure effective coverage without spilling.

6.Neglecting surface preparation
Before applying thermal grease, proper preparation of the CPU and heat sink surfaces is often overlooked. Dust, oil, or
residue can form obstacles that hinder effective heat transfer. Before applying thermal grease, clean both surfaces with
a lint free cloth and isopropanol to ensure they are clean and dry.