First build: optimising air flow/cooling for Define R6

[scheljr]

Hey everyone,

I’m putting together a new pc, mostly for gaming (DCS world) and maybe a bit of video editing down the line. This is the first case I’m building.

CPU will be a i9-9700k (oc’d to 5Ghz). For cooling, I intend to use a Noctua NH D15 air cooler.

Could anyone offer some advice or suggestions please, on how to improve the airflow of this case, with optimal cooling in mind?

Should I change the R6 case to an open layout, or just leave it at default (which might be good enough)? I’ve also read a few comments suggesting to open the top of the case, which should improve temps as well.

Also, it seems that one should build for positive pressure, so intake fans in the front running at higher RPM’s than the one’s in the back?

What would be a good configuration in terms of fan-setup (how many, what diameter, placement)?

Example: One/two larger fans at the back (NF-A14 PWM or SILENTWINGS 3 140mm HIGH SPEED (DC versie/non_PMW), the bigger diameter fans displacing more air, running at 12-1500 RPM. In the front two (or three?) 120mm Noctua fans. Another 140 mm fan at the top? For the front intake fans, I found the following info on the Noctua S12A, NF12:

If you're not going through a dust filter, use the S12A.
The F-12 is designed for increased static pressure, because of this, the F12 would only be better as a case fan if the fan is pushing/pulling through a mesh filter.
The mesh has to be thick like this; to require the nf12. … If it's got large holes/openings like this, use the S12A - http://www.tomshardware.co.uk/answers/id-2566306/case-fan-noctua-s12a-f12.html

Thanks you,

Regards

 

[SgtScream]

I'd recommend a chip with hyper-threading if you plan to video edit. Intel really gimped the 9700k to allow room for other future models, just in case they need to compete with future ryzen chips. My recommendation would be the two preinstalled 140mm fans in the front as intake and to have one fan on the top and back as exhaust. Id wait and see how the stock fans perform, as each pc and hardware/temps vary. If temps aren't adequate, then start thinking about adjusting the fan configuration. You might find the stock fan configuration to be adequate and the need to allocate funds else-ware in the build. That is a higher end case that comes with good fans.

 

[scheljr]

Thanks SgtScream!

 

[tennis2]

The 9700K is no slouch, you're fine.

2 front intake, 1 rear exhaust, like it comes stock.

 

[scheljr]

Yes, for now I think I'll stuck with the 9700. Editing will come later. Maybe my next build will be AMD though.
Thanks tennis2.