væskekølekredsløb

A væskekølekredsløb, or liquid cooling loop, is a system designed to transfer heat away from a component using a circulating liquid. This method is often employed in high-performance computing, such as in personal computers and servers, to manage the significant heat generated by processors and graphics cards. It can also be found in industrial machinery and automotive engines.

The basic components of a væskekølekredsløb include a pump, which circulates the coolant; a radiator, where the heat is dissipated into the surrounding air; a reservoir, which stores the coolant and can help remove air bubbles; and water blocks or cold plates, which attach directly to the heat-generating components to absorb their thermal energy. Tubing connects these components, forming a closed loop through which the coolant flows.

The coolant, typically a mixture of distilled water and additives to prevent corrosion and biological growth, absorbs heat from the components. The pump then pushes the heated coolant through the tubing to the radiator. In the radiator, fins increase the surface area, allowing a fan to blow air across them, thus transferring the heat from the coolant to the air. The cooled liquid then returns to the water blocks, continuing the cycle.

Compared to air cooling, liquid cooling can often achieve lower operating temperatures, leading to improved performance, quieter operation due to the possibility of slower fan speeds, and potentially longer component lifespans by reducing thermal stress. However, liquid cooling systems are generally more complex and can be more expensive to set up and maintain.