Multiple tubing sizes in a watercooling loop

TheRealBeandip · Jul 2, 2015

Im going to be cooling another system soon and have run into a bit of a problem. The size tubing I am going to use for the system is 1/2ID 3/4OD as I like the look.

However this tubing is a little large to properly bend in the area where the CPU and Memory waterblocks are.

Is it Okay to switch to 3/8 or 7/16ID tubing to make connection cleaner and easier? After the memory waterblock I would switch back to 1/2ID and continue the loop like that.

Im using Primochill Primoflex tubing on an Asus X99 Sabertooth motherboard. EK Waterblocks for the CPU and memory.

rowdymoody · Jul 2, 2015

It will work, but of course it will restrict your flow a little bit.

You could try out some spring wraps, they may help you make your bends with the 1/2ID tubing and avoid having to use the smaller stuff. http://koolance.com/tubing-spring-wrap-steel-black-for-od-19mm-3-4in

TheRealBeandip · Jul 2, 2015

The spring wraps are a good idea.

The CPU/Mem loop contains 2 memory waterblocks, a cpu waterblock, a 70mm thick 480mm radiator, a 170mm tube reservoir, and a D5 pump.

If I did go with the smaller tubing option do you think the reduced flow would have a major or minor effect on temps?

rowdymoody · Jul 2, 2015

If you do go with the smaller tubing, the effect will probably be minor as you have a good pump.

TheRealBeandip · Jul 2, 2015

Great, thanks for the help.

rubix_1011 · Jul 2, 2015

In almost every test done on tubing size and flow restriction/rates, the difference between 3/8 and 1/2 ID is very negligible. Of course, 7/16 falls between these dimensions, so it goes to say it that it still applies.

What tubing is being used? This might be the biggest issue, but the kink coils will help some if your tubing is already thin walled. I personally do not like 1/16" walled tubing; I prefer 1/8" walled tubing simply because it doesn't kink as much when bends are made...of course your mileage may vary depending on tubing brand and style.

TheRealBeandip · Jul 2, 2015

rubix_1011 :

I use 1/2 inch ID 374 inch OD Clear Primochill Primoflex Advanced LRT tubing.
It doesnt kink, ever, and I have some fairly weird bends in it on my current system. The problem is with the tubing being so large its hard to get shorter and more complicated runs. As where my 7/16 5/8 by the same product line works much better for that.

Search

Multiple tubing sizes in a watercooling loop

TheRealBeandip

Reputable

rowdymoody

rowdymoody

Honorable

TheRealBeandip

Reputable

rowdymoody

Honorable

TheRealBeandip

Reputable

rubix_1011

Contributing Writer

TheRealBeandip

Reputable

TRENDING THREADS

Latest posts

Moderators online

Share this page