Archived from groups: alt.comp.periphs.mainboard.asus (
More info?)
MEK is carcinogenic if I recall correctly. It is like paint stripper to
plastics in electronics so I would not use it.
MEKP is safer - methyl ethyl ketone peroxide. But it is likely to dissolve
*everything* that can be dissolved. Rather explosive too.
Use iso-propyl alcohol (99% - not the cheap rubbish) as it is specified for
this purpose (IE plastics are selected for their inability to dissolve in it
when electronics such as this are made).
I would not ever use anything more potent / other than iso-propyl alcohol
near the CPU !
"Uncle Al" <UncleAl0@hate.spam.net> wrote in message
news:420C08C0.32CB631A@hate.spam.net...
> PJ wrote:
>>
>> What's the best way to clean off the thermal gel from the CPU and fan?
>
> If it is still loose goo, gently push with a single edge razor blade
> at low angle to plane off most of it. Either way, then try anhydrous
> (99%) isopropanol with a Q-Tip. If that does not move it, try
> odorless spirits paint thinner. If that does not move it, acetone or
> MEK (AKA methyl ethyl ketone or butanone) is next. Going from alcohol
> to acetone increasingly threatens everything else on the mobo for
> contact with the liquid. All the vapors are extremely flammable. MEK
> stinks.
>
> Make sure the thing is not plugged in. It would not hurt to run a
> grounding wire from both you and the box to a water pipe.
> Ventillation and no sources of ignition.
>
> After you ID the least aggressive solvent, dampen a folded paper towel
> and wipe. Don't drench it! Wipe, turn the towel, dampen with clean
> solvent, wipe. Damp Q-Tip for drool. That should get things nice and
> clean with a few wipes. Avoid wetting any other part of the mobo. Be
> gentle. Dry and air before reassembling.
>
> --
> Uncle Al
> http://www.mazepath.com/uncleal/
> (Toxic URL! Unsafe for children and most mammals)
>
http://www.mazepath.com/uncleal/qz.pdf