[SOLVED] CPU Head-spreader: Do i really need it?

[andenlee]

So, im wondering, if i was able to attach some things to allow the cpu to be secured without the IHS, could i mount a cooler directly to the die without having any issues?

If you could please link me a thread that has tested it and has results that would be GREAT! Don't just say no without facts please.

 

[ThatVietGuy]

Is Delidding your CPU worth it?

Is delidding your CPU worth it? Read on to find out!

www.mainperformancepc.com

https://www.anandtech.com/show/12640/amd-ryzen-delidding

 

[geofelt]

This experiment has been done:
https://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/core-i9-7900x-overclock-ln2,5618-4.html

It is called the der8bauer Direct die frame
https://www.caseking.de/en/der8auer-skylake-x-direct-die-frame-fsd8-021.html

 

[Azzyasi]

What CPU?
It matters since the securing method of CPU vastly influences the methods where you can achieve what you want.
For example, if the CPU is secured with a ZIF PGA like many amd, it is very easy to do so since the cpu is secured by the pins. (still will have to deal with the mounting to lay lower on the die without IHS)
For the LGA type the IHS has some tabs where the clamp presses on to and you need some risers (the exact height as the original IHS) on the CPU package in order to properly secure the cpu in the socket and then still you have the issue that the die is recessed in the mounting so the heatsink must be milled to have a pround surface just for the die to not interfere with the surrounding socket. The best adaptation for either intel or Threadripper that use LGA is the IHS itself milled in center to remain with the exposed die in center and retain the original bezel that is needed for proper mounting.

On LTT it was presented a direct die watercooling block.

View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n4O_Dq3xRJA

And Der Baure makes some brackets for direct die cooling

View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DJOVdmd7NHQ

 

[andenlee]

I7-6700k

I couldn't find a direct die stuff for it. But I'd like to as an enthusiast test approach

What CPU?
It matters since the securing method of CPU vastly influences the methods where you can achieve what you want.
For example, if the CPU is secured with a ZIF PGA like many amd, it is very easy to do so since the cpu is secured by the pins. (still will have to deal with the mounting to lay lower on the die without IHS)
For the LGA type the IHS has some tabs where the clamp presses on to and you need some risers (the exact height as the original IHS) on the CPU package in order to properly secure the cpu in the socket and then still you have the issue that the die is recessed in the mounting so the heatsink must be milled to have a pround surface just for the die to not interfere with the surrounding socket. The best adaptation for either intel or Threadripper that use LGA is the IHS itself milled in center to remain with the exposed die in center and retain the original bezel that is needed for proper mounting.

On LTT it was presented a direct die watercooling block.

View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n4O_Dq3xRJA

And Der Baure makes some brackets for direct die cooling

View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DJOVdmd7NHQ

 

[Azzyasi]

Easy(er) to use approach: der8auer direct die frames https://www.caseking.de/en/cat/index/sCategory/69
This frame will replace the original retention arm and plate from the motherboard socket and will sit lower than the die itself, so any flat cpu cooler will work on this frame. But still the cooler mount arms must be a bit higher than standard to make up for the IHS difference in height.

DIY approach:
For intel LGA socket you need something on the cpu package to push down the cpu onto the MB pins, and those are the nubs of the IHS, so you need to improvise that (as said, i'd mill the center of the original IHS (or similar family and socket) to retain the original tabs for proper mounting in the socket.

The next problem is the cooler as it will have to have a protruding part the size of the die in the center. Here is the problem: adding a thicker thermal pad defeats the purpose of delid/direct die as the thermal pad is likely worse than original IHS. Adding another sheet of copper on the bottom of the heatsink to make up for the recess of the die also defeats the purpose since it's another layer with thermal compound, just like the IHS.

So the only real benefit you can get is with a purpose built direct die cooler with small footprint to contact the die and not the surrounding frame. (or by milling the base of an existing cooler to match the recess and not cutting into heatpipes or water canals for waterblocks)
Also the cooler mount must be higher as it will sit lower without IHS so any plastic pins mount system is not applicable. you need screw mount that can be adjustable in height, and make sure the arms of the cooler don't bottom out on the motherboard first.

why not go with delid/liquid metal relid/lapping 1st and then investigate the direct die cooling?