how much thermal grease to use?

[vintagegamer]

When you're swapping out bottlecap transistors or power transistors that have that micah insulator plastic mo-bob, how much thermal grease is supposed to go between it and what you're putting it on? is there a general rule of thumb?

Thanks!

 

[bjk7382]

Just enough, but not too much.

 

[FrizzleFried]

Less is more... enough to cover the area with a VERY THIN layer...

 

[vintagegamer]

I figured that was the case, going off of previous applications done by a "tech" and not me. But thanks for confirming.

 

[Dokert]

If it is oozing out of the sides, you have used too much.

 

[channelmanic]

It's only used to fill in the microscopic gaps between the device and the insulator and the heatsink.

 

[vintagegamer]

It's only used to fill in the microscopic gaps between the device and the insulator and the heatsink.

Gotcha, thanks.

 

[orion3311]

Damn and I was gonna say "around 5lbs or so...take pics when you're done".

So much for fun...

 

[vintagegamer]

Damn and I was gonna say "around 5lbs or so...take pics when you're done".

So much for fun...

See man you're always out to set me up!!

A visual of 5 lbs of thermal grease:

 

[KevinMullins]

You know you have used too much when you find it all over yourself and everything else that you could possibly come in contact with around the house.

It's only used to fill in the microscopic gaps between the device and the insulator and the heatsink.

Exactly.
Just enough to fill the "air gap" between the insulator and the component.
(ie thin coat)

 

[mecha]

put like a little bead and smear it around, yeah?

I've wound up putting too much on too, however. that's why you keep the bottle of rubbing alcohol and the Q-tips and a LOT of paper towel nearby.

those come in handy for prepping the surface too. never combine the old crud on the heatsink/electronics with the new.

 

[modessitt]

Note the slogan...

 

[KenLayton]

Just a thin film is all that's needed. Don't glob it on.

 

[orion3311]

See man you're always out to set me up!!

A visual of 5 lbs of thermal grease: