First timer's questions

[denali]

Good Morning,

So I've read Xilikon's FAQ so that I can get a better understanding of liquid cooling. After reading it, I've got a couple of questions. I admit upfront that I have no clue about liquid cooling.

1) I get that Aluminum is bad, due to galvanic corrosion. However, when I start looking at parts, I notice the nozzles seem to be made of various materials such as Nickel-plated brass. Some places (such as Danger Den) don't seem to disclose what materials are used in their nozzles or their disclosure is limited (for example, "chromed". Chromed what?). Is this something that I shouldn't worry about? If it is something I should worry about, what materials should I consider for the nozzles? For the purposes of discussion, I'm looking to use copper for the cooling blocks.
2) Is there any benefit to using insulation (such as Aerocel) on the lines, to minimize the amount of heat leaking back into the case? Honestly, I really don't care about pretty. I'm looking for substance over style.

Thanks!

 

[anr11]

You will find that most fittings are made of brass with various plating options. This is not a problem. You should be using a corrosion inhibitor anyway in your liquid.

As for insulating your tubing, don't bother. Not much heat is released there. The vast majority is exhausted out the radiator so mounting it outside the case or having it exhaust out of the case will be the best way to prevent heatdump into your case.

 

[Arcygenical]

Yeah, dont worry about plating on barbs. Even if it does corrode (it won't) it will do so on the inside of the barb, with relatively little (no) damage to the loop.

And don't insulate your tubing...

 

[denali]

Hi anr11 and Arcygenical,

Thanks for the replies! That's good information to know. I was concerned because the documentation I read on the subject gave the impression that in a case where a system had copper, nickel and/or stainless steel, the copper would be the one to corrode.

As for the insulation, it was more of an efficiency issue. So if it won't help or will hurt, then it's not worth doing.

Thanks again!