Single vs Dual Loops for CPU + GPU water-cooling

[J7SC_Orion]

Dual loops ? What is EHW coming to ?

 

 

 

Elsewhere @ EHW, there was a bit of coverage of why it can make sense to have dual D5 pumps in series per loop under certain circumstances. As context, this includes fail-over (in particular when dealing with workstations and servers), as well as usually higher and consistent flow, and more resilience to air bubbles - especially if there are multiple rads and CPU+ GPU blocks. That said, D5s rarely break (unless they ran dry for extended periods), and dual D5 pumps are certainly not a necessity even for a high-end enthusiast build project. Still, I prefer build all HEDT (work and play) systems with dual D5s per loop.

 

But what about separate loops for CPU (w/ perhaps VRM), and GPUs ? Why does that even make sense, especially if a given loop layout already has dual pumps ? From a cooling temp point of view, it really isn't necessary, and it also costs a bit more (extra reservoir, fittings, tubing, pumps...) But it can have advantages:

 

- First, when building a complex water-cooled system with a single loop serving 4+ rads, a CPU block and dual (or more) GPU blocks, there will invariably be a lot of twists and turns via tubing and/or angled fittings. Splitting the loop into two discreet ones is easier to lay out (depending on the case of course) and avoid tighter turns such as 90 degree ones, and it also reduces the number of overall impedances per loop.

 

- Second, loop maintenance becomes a bit easier (ie. draining, air bubble bleeding)

 

- Third, changing, say, the CPU and/or mobo but keeping the GPU(s) later on becomes easier...ditto for changing the GPU(s) but keeping the rest

 

- Fourth, it is fun !

 

- Fifth, I like anchovies on my pizza, so there...

 

 

apparently, Iamjanco likes anchovies, too:

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Do Orcas eat anchovies ?

 

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[ENTERPRISE]

Nice insight.

 

You will be pleased to know that I went for the Aquacomputer D5 Next with another Rad Black Ice Nemesis GTS 280. Aside from the additional monitoring via software that the D5 next will bring, it is nice to have the backup, granted I already have a flow sensor which is on my diagnostics monitor (so I would notice). However at least if one goes down, my rig can stay operational while I order a new pump if the worst was to happen.

 

Purchased some additional fittings to allow for angling the tubes if I need to as well as a new cutter for modding the case if necessary. My case has a basement section covered by a shroud which I already modded for my current setup but I'm going to clear more space underneath for the new pump which will sit below my current pump/res combo. However so that I can have the tubing coming back up and out of the basement, it is time for a new tubing hole lol. Also ordered some more of the tap like fittings for my CPU block (which is actually a full mobo coverage block) so when it comes to future maintenance I can lock off the mobo block when undoing pipes etc for future GPU inclusion, just reduces risk of unnecessary spillage. I will also do the same for the top mounted rad, again when altering the loop, why risk additional coolant spilling out of the rad when I can just lock it off right! At least that is my logic.