Thermal Paste & Grease: Explained

Are thermal grease and thermal paste the same thing? Yes, it doesn’t matter which term you use; they are the same. They’re also known as heat paste, thermal goop, heat sink compound, CPU grease, and thermal gel. Another name, thermal pad, is a little different because it’s a solid, unlike paste and grease, which are liquids.

The confusion over all the terms stems from the many different brands and types they come in. However, they all serve a similar purpose: to improve heat conduction between two surfaces, including computer hardware and other electronics.

Sur-Seal offers thermal transfer materials designed to extend the lifetime of electronic materials produced by industries nationwide. You can choose from several options, all of which can be custom-cut to your specifications.

Call 513.574.8500 to learn more about thermal management products and how they can improve or prevent premature failure of your electronics.

Thermal Grease Explained: How Thermal Paste & Grease Works

From computers to medical devices, most electronics share the common problem of inefficient heat transfer. That’s because component surfaces and their coolers (heat sinks) aren’t perfectly smooth, meaning tiny air gaps between them trap heat, which can cause parts like CPUs to get extremely hot and potentially malfunction. Eliminating these air pockets with thermal paste or grease significantly improves the cooling components of electronic equipment.

Several types of thermal pastes are available, each with advantages and trade-offs. Which one you choose depends on the specific application, desired thermal conductivity, and user experience level.

1. Metal-based thermal paste contains fine metal particles, typically silver or aluminum. While it offers excellent thermal conductivity, it can be electrically conductive, which requires careful application to avoid short circuits.
2. Ceramic-based thermal paste is made from ceramic particles, isn’t electrically conductive, and provides good thermal conduction.
3. Silicone-based thermal paste is generally easier but provides lower thermal conductivity than metal or ceramic-based pastes.
4. Carbon-based thermal paste includes compounds like graphite and carbon nanotubes. It offers high thermal conductivity and is not electrically conductive, making it a good balance between performance and safety.
5. Liquid metal: Composed of liquid metal alloys, they provide superior thermal conductivity. However, they are electrically conductive and can be corrosive to certain metals.

How To Use These Materials

Mastering the use and application of thermal paste is vital to its success.

• Use thermal paste: Eliminate air pockets by cleaning and sanding the surface where the paste will be applied.
• Apply thermal paste: Apply a small amount of paste (the size of a pea) to the component, then gently attach the heat sink using even pressure.
• Perform a light test: A light test ensures the thermal paste is spread across the entire component surface.

While applying thermal paste is relatively easy, it’s essential to follow established procedures, as they’re designed to give optimal results every time.

Advantages of Using Thermal Paste & Grease

Thermal paste and grease help maintain the health and efficiency of electronic devices, ensuring optimal performance and longevity of various components. Benefits they offer include:

1. Improved heat transfer: By enhancing heat conductivity, thermal paste ensures the heat generated by electronic components is efficiently transferred to the heat sink, reducing the risk of overheating.
2. Increased component life span: By maintaining lower operating temperatures, thermal paste prevents damage and wear caused by excessive heat, ensuring components function properly for longer.
3. Enhanced performance: Overheating can lead to throttling, where a device intentionally slows down to reduce temperature. Thermal paste helps maintain optimal temperatures, preventing throttling and ensuring consistent performance.
4. Versatility: Whether it’s for high-performance gaming PCs, servers, or everyday electronics, there’s a thermal paste that fits your specific thermal conductivity requirements.

Request a Thermal Paste or Grease Quote With Sur-Seal

If you’re searching for high-quality thermal pastes and greases, Sur-Seal has the solution you need. Our commitment to research and development has established us as a leading supplier of thermal management materials. You can depend on us to deliver solutions that provide the expected results.

To learn more about our entire line of thermal management materials, call Sur-Seal at 513.574.8500.