How do I choose a radiator? Which is better, copper, pure aluminum or aluminum alloy?

2022 12/02

First, look at the requirements for heat dissipation. For example, if the requirements for heat dissipation are high and the heat generation is large, and it is necessary to achieve rapid cooling and quickly transfer the heat, it is necessary to select materials with high thermal conductivity. The thermal conductivity of materials has a great impact on the heat dissipation effect. The difference between materials with high thermal conductivity and materials with low thermal conductivity can be dozens of times. What is the thermal conductivity of commonly used thermal conductive materials? According to Yongyu aluminum radiator experts, silver has the highest thermal conductivity among common metals, followed by copper. Here are the thermal conductivity of different materials:

Thermal conductivity coefficient (unit: W / mK)
Silver 429
Copper 401
Jin 317
Aluminium 237
Iron 80
Lead 34.8
1070 aluminum alloy 226
1050 aluminum alloy 209
6063 aluminum alloy 201
6061 aluminum alloy 155

In addition to simply looking at the material, the material selection of the radiator also depends on other factors, such as the strength that the radiator needs to achieve. Take aluminum as an example. If the strength is required to be large, alloy aluminum profiles will be used as the material of the radiator, because pure aluminum has better thermal conductivity than alloy, but its strength is relatively soft. Generally, if the radiator has load bearing requirements, pure aluminum cannot be used.

In addition to the thermal conductivity and strength mentioned above, Yongyu aluminum radiator experts remind that the cost also depends on the cost. The cost of raw materials of different materials is also different. Generally speaking, high thermal conductivity means high cost. For example, silver is very expensive. It can only be used for high value-added products, high-end products, general electronic products or high-power radiators, Generally, silver is not used as the material.