Heatsink prep?

[Tom@HaslettMI]

When building an LED array do you need to sand, buff or otherwise prepare the surface of the heatsink? I recall reading about people doing this, but can"t seem to find the info. anywhere. I'm planning to use thermal pads to mount the LEDs... if that makes a difference.

Thanks
Tom

[nate_newton]

Originally Posted by Tom@HaslettMI

When building an LED array do you need to sand, buff or otherwise prepare the surface of the heatsink? I recall reading about people doing this, but can"t seem to find the info. anywhere. I'm planning to use thermal pads to mount the LEDs... if that makes a difference.

Thanks
Tom

My guess would be just making sure the surface is clean of any residue left from production.

[Tom@HaslettMI]

Originally Posted by nate_newton

My guess would be just making sure the surface is clean of any residue left from production.

Good to know thanks. I was trying to figure out why sanding and buffing was necessary... perhaps it is if you're using arctic silver thermal adhesive.

Tom

[dumbderk]

well if you are using any type of thermal paste you need to clean it of residue, I recommend rubbing alcohol it is cheap and very effective as it dries fast and doesn't leave any residue behind.