180mm Radiators
180mm Liquid Cooling Radiators
A radiator is just as important in a water-cooled system as the water cooler itself because the radiator must dissipate the heat absorbed by the water. This is achieved through its fin surface, which is cooled by a fan, at least in the case of an active radiator. For a 180 mm radiator, a 180 mm fan can be mounted accordingly. 180 mm radiators are particularly suitable for midi-towers because they take up less space than, for example, a 240 mm radiator with two 120 mm fans. However, even in a larger tower, a 180 mm radiator can be useful for the same reasons if not too many sources need to be cooled or if you want to save space in the case for other components.
The Cooling Performance of the Fan is Crucial
For a 180 mm radiator, as with all other radiators, attention should be paid to the fan to be mounted on it, its cooling performance, and its material. Copper or brass is usually used as the base material for a radiator and may also be nickel-plated. It is important to ensure that the material of the radiator matches the rest of the water loop to prevent chemical reactions with other elements in the water cooling loop. Most 180 mm radiators have two to four G1/4 ports to connect them to the water cooling loop and four holes specifically designed for 180 mm fans. Even with a 180 mm radiator, you should consider how many sources need to be cooled by a water cooler.
When buying a 180 mm radiator, the following should generally be considered:
- Is the overall performance of the radiator and fan sufficient for the respective water coolers?
- Does the 180 mm radiator waste too much space in the case?
- Is the material of the 180 mm radiator compatible with the other materials in the water cooling loop?