A heat sink often spelled as a "heatsink," is a heat conductor that absorbs and disperses heat produced by mechanical and electronic devices. Heat sinks use processes like convection, conduction, or radiation to increase heat flow away from the hot device. As a result, it improves the performance and extends the life of your components, allowing them to perform better, longer, and more efficiently.
Materials of the Heatsinks
Heatsinks are designed with metal, usually made of copper or aluminum. Copper conducts heat, which helps dissipate heat from the device. Aluminum does not conduct heat as well as copper and is cheaper and lighter than copper. The heat usually rises through several metal fins. The fin design is ideal as it provides more surface area for heat to spread and dissipate.
Types
Various heat sinks are available, almost all made of metal, most commonly copper or aluminum. One of the most common designs for heatsinks is the familiar "fin" arrangement. Alternate versions that use finning, stamping, and various other forming techniques to increase surface area and overall heat transfer rate are also available.
Also, most heatsinks are passive and are referred to as heat sinks without fans. The term "active heat sink" refers to a heat sink with an integrated fan. Another term is an HSF, a heat sink with a fan. Some heatsinks can also be combined with a liquid cooling solution to draw heat away from the device.
Applications
Heatsinks are ideal for cooling many devices, including CPUs, LEDs, ICs, and modules. Components exposed to high heat can be damaged beyond repair. In the worst case, overheating components can cause fire, explosion, and injury.
Other examples of daily use of heatsinks include:
Is It Easy to Install a Heat Sink?
In case you are unsure about the installation or change of a heatsink, it would help to consult a professional for help and advice. However, in most cases, it is common to install them for computer maintenance. Suppose you have carefully read and understood the instructions and steps required to install a given model of heatsink or computer cooler. In that case, you will have no/little difficulties mounting the heatsink to the desired component.
Why Choose Our Products?
Our products are ideal for devices that generate ample heat and help cool embedded boards and other devices that require excellent cooling to prevent thermal throttling. Likewise, we are one of the most reputable electrical wholesalers in the UK, offering our potential customers unrivaled sourcing and supply services for electronics and electrical products.
