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Mineral oil cooling in PC builds

May 2023
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Mineral oil computing is a growing trend in the PC building community that involves submerging computer components in mineral oil to create a unique build. The mineral oil acts as a coolant, helping to dissipate heat away from the components and keep them cool. In addition to the aesthetic appeal, a mineral oil PC build offers a number of benefits that make it an attractive option for tech enthusiasts.

One of the major benefits of using mineral oil in your builds is the cooling abilities. The oil has a high thermal conductivity which means it’s able to transfer heat away from the components then from the oil into the surrounding air. This allows for consistent performance even under heavy stress. Although mineral oil may evaporate over a long period of time this cooling solution is reliable and long lasting.

Noise reduction is also another great benefit of mineral oils. Traditional cooling systems whether liquid or air, can generate a large amount of noise, especially under a high load. Mineral oil on the other hand operates quietly, making it a fantastic choice to those who value a silent gaming experience.

Choosing the correct oil type

PCIe card submerged in oil

The mineral oil pc build process can be quite challenging and requires a certain amount of technical knowledge. You first need to look into finding a good quality mineral oil that is safe to use with electrical components. The oil must be free of impurities and also have a high flash point to ensure it doesn’t ignite. There is a range of mineral oils you could choose from, some of which are:

  • Transformer oil: This is a type of mineral oil commonly used in the electrical industry for insulation and cooling purposes. It is non-toxic and safe for use with electronic components.
  • Paraffin oil: This oil is commonly used in cosmetics and personal care products and is also safe for use in a PC build. It is non-toxic and has a high flash point.
  • Food grade mineral oil:Used in the food industry and is safe for use with electronics. It is also non-toxic and has a high flash point, making it a safe option for use in a PC build.

It’s important to note that not all mineral oils are suitable for a PC build. It’s recommended to research the range of options and choose oil specifically designed for electronic use. Please be sure to check the manufacturer's specifications to ensure that it is safe and suitable for the intended use.

Before adding the oil, the components must be cleaned and dried to ensure they are free of any contaminants or moisture. The components are then assembled into the case which is then filled with mineral oil. Care must be taken to avoid splashing or spilling the oil as this could potentially damage the peripherals outside the case.

One of the biggest challenges with mineral oil computing is ensuring that the oil level is consistent and that the components are fully immersed. Over time, the oil may evaporate or leak, leading to a reduced cooling performance. Many mineral oil PC builders use clear, plastic containers to ensure that the components are always fully immersed and that the oil level is easily visible.

Want to get creative with your builds? This could be the option for you. Although all enthusiasts will use the mineral oil for its benefits, you can also create a visually impressive build. The clear case will allow you to get inventive with your build. The most common way of doing this is creating a fish tank. Yes, a fish tank! This can easily be created; most tank accessories and pebbles can be used with this. But please, no fish!

Mineral oil computing offers a unique alternative to traditional cooling methods. With its high thermal conductivity, reduced noise levels, and aesthetic appeal, it is an attractive option for tech enthusiasts and PC builders looking for a new and exciting challenge.

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