Upon closer inspection by Igor’s Lab, it has been revealed that the materials used in all-in-one liquid coolers may not always match up with what is advertised by the manufacturers. Out of the six coolers tested, two were found to contain copper/zinc alloy or brass instead of the pure copper that was promised. This discrepancy raises concerns about the accuracy and transparency of the product specifications provided by the manufacturers.
Copper is known for its excellent thermal conductivity, rated at around 401 W·m−1·K−1, which is significantly higher than that of aluminum at approximately 237. Manufacturers often emphasize the use of copper in their coolers due to its superior heat dissipation properties. However, the revelation that some coolers actually contain copper/zinc alloy or brass instead of pure copper calls into question the effectiveness of these products in terms of cooling efficiency.
Among the coolers tested by Igor’s Lab, the ‘full copper’ Alphacool NexXxoS ST30 and the Aqua Computer Airplex were found to have materials consistent with what was advertised. The Hardware Labs Black Ice Nemesis GTS also passed the testing, albeit with some parts made of copper/zinc alloy instead of pure copper. On the other hand, the EKWB Quantum Surface P120M and Bykski’s CR-RD120RC-TN-V2 Full Copper were discovered to contain significant amounts of brass in place of copper, which could affect their overall performance.
The investigation also raised issues of compliance with regulations such as RoHS certification, as high traces of lead were found in the solder used in some of the coolers. This non-compliance could have potential repercussions for the manufacturers and highlight the importance of ensuring that products meet industry standards for safety and environmental protection.
Bykski has acknowledged the findings of the investigation and taken steps to remove the affected batch from sale. The company claims that the coolers in question were produced by a different OEM, which may have been responsible for the use of copper alloy instead of pure copper. Watercool Heatkiller, on the other hand, has updated its website to reflect the correct material composition of its product, indicating that the channels are made of brass, not copper as previously stated.
The discrepancies uncovered in the investigation conducted by Igor’s Lab shed light on the need for greater transparency and accountability in the manufacturing and marketing of all-in-one liquid coolers. Consumers rely on accurate and reliable information when making purchasing decisions, especially when it comes to products that impact the performance and longevity of their hardware. It is crucial for manufacturers to uphold the highest standards of quality assurance and ensure that their products meet the expectations set by their specifications.
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