X-Flow rads

E

ewarz

[H]ard|Gawd
Joined
Dec 13, 2002
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What are your opinions on the single pass x-flow rads? Specifically compared to the black ice double pass rads. Both are claiming low pressure drops. Both seem very good. I guess the biggest difference is whether I want my barbs on the same side or one on each end. The placement of the barbs doesnt bother me at all so it doesnt matter.

I am comparing these two Xtreme models:
Black Ice X-Flow Xtreme II
Black Ice Xtreme II Radiator


Are the X-Flow rads really better? Are the Xtreme models worth it?
 
Improperly designed and executed. Low pressure drop is not the defining characteristic of radiator performance, but, conversely, high pressure drop may be indicative of an efficient radiator. You want disruption of flow, high surface area and increased coolant velocity within the tubing, and these cannot be effectively delivered with "low" resistance.

The PA160 is the only PC cooling radiator properly designed for a single pass configuration. My advice is to buy the cheapest Black Ice suited for the fans you'll be using, or bite the bullet and buy the superior PA120.2.
 
ewarz said:
What are your opinions on the single pass x-flow rads? Specifically compared to the black ice double pass rads.

Are the X-Flow rads really better? Are the Xtreme models worth it?
Click to expand...

Double-pass radiators are typically better for cooling than single-pass. This is because in a double-pass radiator, the coolant passes through twice the distance of tubing than coolant in a single-pass rad. More distance in the tubes = more heat taken out of the coolant = better cooling.

X-flow only applies to single-pass radiators. It simply means the inlet is in one corner on one end of the rad, and the outlet is on the opposite corner on the opposite side. You can't have a double-pass X-flow radiator.

If you are comparing a single-pass rad to another single-pass rad, the X-flow is better. If you are comparing a single-pass to a double-pass rad, the double-pass is better.
 
Yeah, I've used both a BIP and a BIP X-flow... And they both got about the same temperature :).

I currently like the BIP X because it allows me to move water from a high point to a low point in my case without tubing.
 
ah ok. cool, this helps me a lot. im gonna avoid the black ice single pass rads then.

man, that PA120.2 is one bad ass rad. i would totally get it but i doubt the difference in cash is gonna be worthwhile for my current project.

thanks guys!
 
Phrik said:
What is this PA120.2 or PA160 ? What kinda model is it ?
Click to expand...

They are made by Thermochill. They are the best performing radiators for a given fan size (eg 240, 360), but they are thick, and expensive. If you have room in your case, a generous budget, and want to push your OC as far as it'll go, they are the best thing going. However, they may not be the best value if that doesn't describe your situation.

The PA160 is a fairly unique product. It is designed to be shrouded with a single 120mm fan, but performs almost as well as the PA120.2 - a double sized radiator (which handily beats even some triple sized radiators).
 
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