As the electronics industry is developing smarter than ever. The demand for thermal management solutions is also increasing parallel. Now, it’s not limited to fans and heatsinks only to control the rising temperatures. Businesses must have to have a quality thermal solution installed in the components. So, it urges an in-depth knowledge of thermal interface materials for businesses/consumers.
Today, our guide will emphasize the best thermal management materials, types, and characteristics. NOTE: Choosing a TIM depends upon the specifications and compatibility of the component one owns. For example, a PC user will have different requirements for thermal material compared to the requirements one has in the automotive industry. So choose wisely but according to your product specifications.
Thermal Interface Material
We can define the “thermal interface material as a heat-conductive source between the two components”. It is a substance formulated in different shapes/forms to keep the temperature levels balanced. As a result of which, the stability, performance, and lifespan of those components become obvious.
Businesses/Consumers use thermal interface materials in components like CPUs, GPUs, RAMs, Gaming Consoles, LED Lights, EV Batteries, Network Routers, Data Centers, 5G stations, and MRI Machines. Again, the compatibility of each depends upon the make, model, and specifications of the specific component.
Moreover, there are various types of TIMs available in the market, each carries unique features and effectiveness as per the component’s specifications. The commonly used types in the market are Thermal Paste, Thermal Pad, Thermal Gel, Thermal Tapes, and Phase Change Materials.
“Table Overview”
| Thermal Interface Material | Best Compatibility | Environmental Impacts | Performance | Users Preference |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thermal Paste | CPUs, GPUs, Consoles | Moderate to High | Medium to High | 8/10 |
| Thermal Pad | RAMs, SSDs, HDDs | Low to Moderate | Medium to High | 9/10 |
| Thermal Gel | Multiple Industrial Components | Moderate | Medium to High | 7/10 |
| Thermal Tape | LEDs, Small Electronic, Telecommunication | Moderate | Low to Medium | 6/10 |
| Phase Change Material | High Power Electronics, | Low to Moderate | Medium to High | 8/10 |
Types of TIMs
Below are the types of thermal interface materials along with their specific characteristics.
– Thermal Paste:
Thermal paste with its alternate name “thermal compound” or “thermal grease” is an effective, budget-friendly, and easy-to-use thermal material for multiple numbers of electronic components. The general applications of thermal paste are best suitable for CPUs, GPUs, and Gaming Consoles.
The renowned types of thermal paste are silicone-based thermal paste, metal-based thermal paste, ceramic-based thermal paste, and liquid-metal thermal paste. Each provides an appropriate amount of thermal conductivity to manage the heat and fills air gaps effectively.
Amongst the mentioned types, the silicone-based thermal paste is the most famous and commonly used type of thermal paste. Overall, thermal paste is a viscous substance manufactured utilizing quality ingredients and is effective for both low and high-end electronic components.
– Thermal Pads:
A thermal pad is also known by some other names like “thermally conductive pad” and “thermal interface pad”. It serves the same as other thermal materials i.e. transferring heat elements efficiently. Comparatively, a thermal pad looks different than other thermal products as it is a solid-state substance.
Regarding compatibility, they are best fit for GPUs, RAMs, VRMs, and Storage Devices (SSD, HDD). The application process of a thermal pad is relatively simple and easier than other thermal products. One only needs to measure the accurate size/thickness, and then apply it.
The notable types of thermally interface pads are silicone thermal pads, graphite thermal pads, ceramic-filled pads, and phase change pads. Similarly, the most famous and common type here is the silicone thermal pad which offers high thermal conductivity and reliable performance.
– Thermal Gel:
We can consider thermal gel a better thermal management solution than other interface materials. The core reason for its superiority is its long-lastingness, higher thermal conductivity, and low thermal resistance. Moreover, it does not become easily dry due to its semi-solid nature.
Major industries like automotive, telecommunication, electronics, aerospace, and others usually prefer thermal gel for its reliability and durability. It attaches to the components’ surface perfectly well, eliminates the gaps efficiently, and is easy to clean/install without any problem.
Other than that, silicone-based, metal-based, ceramic-based, and non-silicone-based thermal gels are the general types of thermal gel. Here, the silicone thermal gel is one of its famous types as it is a reliable, durable, and budget-friendly choice.
– Phase Change Materials:
As the name suggests, PCM changes its physical form. Yes, the phase change material is a thermal interface that changes its state as required. It turns from solid to liquid & liquid to solid according to the temperature level. This mechanism keeps the temperature fluctuations as low as possible.
High-end industry uses the phase change material in its components and equipment. Examples include high-end workstations, automotive (Hybrid Vehicles), textiles, and medical industry. Such a diverse use of PCMs across multiple components is solid proof of its remarkable performance.
Phase change material also has certain types like organic, inorganic, and eutectic PCMs. These types are derived from multiple natural resources and other polymers for a stable final product. PCMs are eco-friendly, energy-efficient, reusable, and offer a longer lifespan.
– Thermal Tape:
Tired of screwing and clamping the components like heatsinks, thermal fins, and other cooling pipes.? Thermal tape may serve you accordingly well here, not only that but it will also manage a smooth transfer of heat-generating factors between the components.
Companies manufacture thermal tape utilizing fibreglass and other thermal elements. The notable feature of this tape is its double-sided functionality and easy-to-apply method. Although it is not a solid choice to perform against heavy thermal duties, still can be used to fulfill low-end requirements.
Businesses/Consumers can use thermal tape in LED strips, small electronic components, and the vehicle industry. Another important point to understand here is that thermal tape is also preferred in such conditions where it is not possible to apply screws or other types of bonding.
Where to Get Quality Thermal Interface Materials.?
After a detailed overview of thermal interface materials, types, and features, the next is to approach the quality manufacturers. Here, most businesses and consumers lack pre-research work to knock on the right doors of quality plus reputable manufacturers.
But wait, we will straightforwardly recommend JiuJu as a reputable thermal manufacturer to businesses/consumers. Because quality and experience speak for themselves, with manufacturing experience of over 20 years, JiuJu has a strong grip in the thermal industry.
JiuJu is equipped with each standard up to the required mark, the company owns the latest machinery, advanced R&D, skilled team, qualified material scientists, and 24/7 active customer support. There are no delays and gaps between their manufacturing and smooth delivery process.
The highlighted thermal products at JiuJu are Thermal Pastes, Thermal Pads, Thermal Gels, Thermal Tapes, and multiple other adhesives. The company offers wholesale rates to businesses acquiring their products in bulk, not only that they also offer discounts and perks to establish a smooth business relationship.
So, to get quotations and pre-counselling about any thermal product. Businesses can directly approach officials at JiuJu anytime. Customer support agents are available 24/7 professionally assisting their clients across the globe. You may end up signing a smooth and long-term business deal for sure.
Key Takeaways
Thermal interface material plays a vital role in managing the rising temperatures of electronic components. It ensures the prolonged life of electronic components and keeps the performance stable. Trending thermal materials are thermal paste, pad, gel, and tapes with different features and characteristics. Businesses must always choose the product as per compatibility.
Relevant businesses that want stable and consistent growth in the industry should always prioritize quality thermal management products. It relies on choosing the best thermal manufacturer among the others. So, deep research work and a complete understanding of requirements may help to land on the grounds of reputable manufacturers and their reputable products.
Check out JiuJu’s thermal management solutions, if you have not yet.
