Not sure if this is the right place for it; its job is to cool the CPU, but it's a 'component' in the grand scheme of this. In any case, this is going to be one of the most unusual questions, but here goes.
I have a Dell Optiplex 330 which I have since modified to accept a Xeon E5450 CPU. Everything works like intended, however, when I opened up Core Temp and Speccy, it told me the CPU was running at 60 degrees celcius, sometimes going above that. I've managed to pin point the problem to the Dell heatsink being designed in an odd way; it's basically being held in place by three little points, and this means the heatsink can tip. Turns out the heatsink was tipped, and making contact only with a corner of the CPU. So I proceeded to experiment by filling in the crevice with some paper towels to provide a tight fit, and completely level heatsink surface. Here's a picture of the end result.
However, I am rightfully concerned that the paper towel can be a possible fire hazard, so I'd like to ask for an alternative I can use. I've been told to use a sponge instead, another source says duct tape should work fine and not cause problems. I just need something that won't provide a fire hazard that can tighten the grip for the heatsinkg.
Before you ask: No, replacing the heatsink is entirely out of the question, this motherboard can only take proprietary Dell heatsinks. The crevice is an unusual shape, so using something soft and wrappable is the only way I can actually get it in there, so hard plastic or metal is out of the question as well.
Thank you for reading, I hope to come across a helpful answer.
I have a Dell Optiplex 330 which I have since modified to accept a Xeon E5450 CPU. Everything works like intended, however, when I opened up Core Temp and Speccy, it told me the CPU was running at 60 degrees celcius, sometimes going above that. I've managed to pin point the problem to the Dell heatsink being designed in an odd way; it's basically being held in place by three little points, and this means the heatsink can tip. Turns out the heatsink was tipped, and making contact only with a corner of the CPU. So I proceeded to experiment by filling in the crevice with some paper towels to provide a tight fit, and completely level heatsink surface. Here's a picture of the end result.
However, I am rightfully concerned that the paper towel can be a possible fire hazard, so I'd like to ask for an alternative I can use. I've been told to use a sponge instead, another source says duct tape should work fine and not cause problems. I just need something that won't provide a fire hazard that can tighten the grip for the heatsinkg.
Before you ask: No, replacing the heatsink is entirely out of the question, this motherboard can only take proprietary Dell heatsinks. The crevice is an unusual shape, so using something soft and wrappable is the only way I can actually get it in there, so hard plastic or metal is out of the question as well.
Thank you for reading, I hope to come across a helpful answer.