Need water cooling help/ideas

[springs113]

I have ordered the Thermaltake T81 case, currently upgrading/downgrading(however you want to look at it) from an Obsidian 900D. I love both cases and had only wished TT has something like this out before I took the plunge on the 900D. In short I am now stuck with both, which I don't really mind(wife on the other hand). I am sorta stuck on radiator configs. I can reuse only a few rad from my 900D rig but knowing me I probably wont. I will probably sidegrade to the 4790k and get a R9 290x or 290 that is already made for liquid cooling.

This will be my second step into the realm of water cooling and would really love to go(not all out) but make it much better than my previous attempt. I want it to be a lot neater and more bad ass and would at the same time using the right components to maximize the look of what i want to accomplish. The attached images below of the T81 are representations of what I would like to at least be comparable to. One thing is for certain when it comes to block/rad, I am starting off with the recently released Swiftech H220x, I really liked that kit and since I had the H220 in my initial WC build, it's only fitting. I have (http://www.performance-pcs.com/) within minutes reach so I will be able to pick up a lot of parts from there. Any thoughts an ideas are welcomed and will be very much appreciated.

 

[RCoon]

I have ordered the Thermaltake T81 case, currently upgrading/downgrading(however you want to look at it) from an Obsidian 900D. I love both cases and had only wished TT has something like this out before I took the plunge on the 900D. In short I am now stuck with both, which I don't really mind(wife on the other hand). I am sorta stuck on radiator configs. I can reuse only a few rad from my 900D rig but knowing me I probably wont. I will probably sidegrade to the 4790k and get a R9 290x or 290 that is already made for liquid cooling.

This will be my second step into the realm of water cooling and would really love to go(not all out) but make it much better than my previous attempt. I want it to be a lot neater and more bad ass and would at the same time using the right components to maximize the look of what i want to accomplish. The attached images below of the T81 are representations of what I would like to at least be comparable to. One thing is for certain when it comes to block/rad, I am starting off with the recently released Swiftech H220x, I really liked that kit and since I had the H220 in my initial WC build, it's only fitting. I have (http://www.performance-pcs.com/) within minutes reach so I will be able to pick up a lot of parts from there. Any thoughts an ideas are welcomed and will be very much appreciated.

The most important thing in a watercooling loop that makes it look neat and/or badass, is the right fittings. There are so many styles and types, you really need to have a plan in mind. With the right plan in mind, and the right fittings for the job, it will stop your loop from looking cluttered and too "bendy" inside the case. Straight lines of tubing are best, and most easily done with the right fittings. That's from my meagre experience of watercooling 2 systems, haven't done much since then.

 

[springs113]

The most important thing in a watercooling loop that makes it look neat and/or badass, is the right fittings. There are so many styles and types, you really need to have a plan in mind. With the right plan in mind, and the right fittings for the job, it will stop your loop from looking cluttered and too "bendy" inside the case. Straight lines of tubing are best, and most easily done with the right fittings. That's from my meagre experience of watercooling 2 systems, haven't done much since then.

Do you have any photos of your rig(s)? Also I was thinking of going like acrylic or something but don't know if I should, I have heard some horror stories. I will be going with compression fittings.
Here'smy 900D
http://img.techpowerup.org/130822/IMAG0571.jpg

 

[RCoon]

Do you have any photos of your rig(s)? Also I was thinking of going like acrylic or something but don't know if I should, I have heard some horror stories. I will be going with compression fittings.
Here'smy 900D
http://img.techpowerup.org/130822/IMAG0571.jpg

Horror stories, yes, I've had my share. I broke a 780 when they had only just came out. Literally at that stage it was a £550 mistake.
Christ, I'll have to do some digging for photos. Give me a short while.

 

[springs113]

I also don't want to run into the same situation...not being able to fill my top rad. Plus I am looking for an easier to fill and drain my loop. Any brand recommendation for compression fittings... I had EK in my 900D but they tend to strip.

 

[RCoon]

I also don't want to run into the same situation...not being able to fill my top rad. Plus I am looking for an easier to fill and drain my loop. Any brand recommendation for compression fittings... I had EK in my 900D but they tend to strip.

Monsoon fittings are verrrry nice. As for the top rad filling situation, i usually measure, assemble, and fill my loop before fixing it in place in the case so I know it's filled without bubbles. Also, having a T fitting at the bottom of the loop in the case with a quick disconnect fitting is the easiest way to allow you to empty the loop.

 

[GhostRyder]

If you are going to jump into full water cooling realm just remember to start with a plan of action before starting (map out the radiator spots, the room you have, and plan your route for hoses). When I build one I normally try to decide before hand how much cooling I'm going to need to cool my system. For an i7 4790k overclocked and an R9 290x, you do not need an extreme amount. I keep temps in the 50's using a 360mm rad and a 140mm rad cooling off 3x R9 290X and an FX 9590.

If your looking at blocks, I personally like EK full cover blocks for their clean look and the fact they work very well/last along time.

If you want easy filling, that's going to depend on where you put the reservoir and what type of reservoir you go with.

 

[RCoon]

As requested, my old W/C builds were not particularly well thought out. Was my main regret. But after that loss of a 780, I've never W/C'd again

http://www.techpowerup.com/forums/threads/your-pc-atm.65012/page-977#post-2941593
http://www.techpowerup.com/forums/threads/the-tpu-uk-clubhouse.68304/page-597#post-2969913

 

[springs113]

If you are going to jump into full water cooling realm just remember to start with a plan of action before starting (map out the radiator spots, the room you have, and plan your route for hoses). When I build one I normally try to decide before hand how much cooling I'm going to need to cool my system. For an i7 4790k overclocked and an R9 290x, you do not need an extreme amount. I keep temps in the 50's using a 360mm rad and a 140mm rad cooling off 3x R9 290X and an FX 9590.

If your looking at blocks, I personally like EK full cover blocks for their clean look and the fact they work very well/last along time.

If you want easy filling, that's going to depend on where you put the reservoir and what type of reservoir you go with.

Thinking about it all, I am just gonna migrate my current setup which is in my sys specs all except for the psu. I'm going to a seasonic platinum 1300w. I think I wont upgrade until the move to ddr4 is complete.

As requested, my old W/C builds were not particularly well thought out. Was my main regret. But after that loss of a 780, I've never W/C'd again

http://www.techpowerup.com/forums/threads/your-pc-atm.65012/page-977#post-2941593
http://www.techpowerup.com/forums/threads/the-tpu-uk-clubhouse.68304/page-597#post-2969913

How did you lose your 780? Well i know how but..would you mind getting into a lil detail?

 

[MxPhenom 216]

Monsoon fittings are verrrry nice. As for the top rad filling situation, i usually measure, assemble, and fill my loop before fixing it in place in the case so I know it's filled without bubbles. Also, having a T fitting at the bottom of the loop in the case with a quick disconnect fitting is the easiest way to allow you to empty the loop.

I am running with monsoon fitting right now. Chrome with black carbpn fiber and I will likely not buy anymore and replace them all with bitspower at some point. The Monsoons are built pretty crappy if you get the ones with carbon fiber strip. If you tighten down the fittings to much it'll break the glue they use to attach the top part of the fitting to the lower. Then you don't have as good of a seal around the tubing. This has happened pretty much on evry fitting I have usd their little tool on, and you dont even have to tighten down much before the glue breaks and the fitting comes apart.

 

[springs113]

I am running with monsoon fitting right now. Chrome with black carbpn fiber and I will likely not buy anymore and replace them all with bitspower at some point. The Monsoons are built pretty crappy if you get the ones with carbon fiber strip. If you tighten down the fittings to much it'll break the glue they use to attach the top part of the fitting to the lower. Then you don't have as good of a seal around the tubing.

Hey Mx long time no see.
So you are saying to go with the bitspower?
Have you taken a look at my case and setup possibilities. I think i only will buy one more rad.

 

[MxPhenom 216]

Hey Mx long time no see.
So you are saying to go with the bitspower?
Have you taken a look at my case and setup possibilities. I think i only will buy one more rad.

Yeah bitspower is my go to for fittings.

Id probably run a 360 rad and a 240.

 

[GhostRyder]

Thinking about it all, I am just gonna migrate my current setup which is in my sys specs all except for the psu. I'm going to a seasonic platinum 1300w. I think I wont upgrade until the move to ddr4 is complete.

Well im confused why you would go that far on a PSU, even with 2 290X and that processor the 1k would be enough.

I would not upgrade from a 4770k-4790k just because I doubt with your system you would get much of a benefit (if any) from it except in slightly lower temps.

With the watercooling however, I use mostly XSPC stuff on my build from frozencpu mostly because its good quality, excellent price, and you can get bundle kits to save you time in your selections. I use these adapters for my system and honestly I prefer compression after using them over the barbs mostly because it feels like a much more tighter fit and can give you a bit more security (Not that barbs are bad, I used them in tons of systems before hand) and just a cleaner look.

http://www.frozencpu.com/products/2...ing_-_Black_Chrome.html?id=HFqUga2M&mv_pc=759

Those are the fittings I use, they match my dark setup in the 800D

 

[springs113]

Yeah bitspower is my go to for fittings.

Any input on this quick disconnect and t fitting? I would like to pick up a few items today.
Here's the rad support for the case...which i am surprised you haven't commented on.
Radiator SupportFront: 1 x 120mm or 1 x 240mm or 1 x 360mm 1 x 140mm or 1 x 280mm or 1 x 420mm Top: 1 x 120mm or 1 x 240mm or 1 x 360mm 1 x 140mm or 1 x 280mm or 1 x 420mm Rear: 1 x 120mm or 1 x 140mm Bottom: 1 x 120mm or 1 x 240mm 1 x 140mm or 1 x 280mm

I can't use my 480 from my 900D so i need a new "monster" to accompany the h220x's 240 rad. I do have a thick 120mm ram hidden that i can use. What rad do you recommend?
I am also going to be using some carbon fiber and will change the look of my color coordination. Even though the Mpower has a bit of yellow, I think i will be going white and black this time around

 

[MxPhenom 216]

just get a 360, put it in the top, and your 240 in the front.

also if you are buying a 290x, a guy has a reference one in the for sale section, that's screaming for water block to be put on it

 

[springs113]

Well im confused why you would go that far on a PSU, even with 2 290X and that processor the 1k would be enough.

I would not upgrade from a 4770k-4790k just because I doubt with your system you would get much of a benefit (if any) from it except in slightly lower temps.

With the watercooling however, I use mostly XSPC stuff on my build from frozencpu mostly because its good quality, excellent price, and you can get bundle kits to save you time in your selections. I use these adapters for my system and honestly I prefer compression after using them over the barbs mostly because it feels like a much more tighter fit and can give you a bit more security (Not that barbs are bad, I used them in tons of systems before hand) and just a cleaner look.

http://www.frozencpu.com/products/2...ing_-_Black_Chrome.html?id=HFqUga2M&mv_pc=759

Those are the fittings I use, they match my dark setup in the 800D

Any photos of your 800D?

just get a 360, put it in the top, and your 240 in the front.

also if you are buying a 290x, a guy has a reference one in the for sale section, that's screaming for water block to be put on it

I think I'm gonna just role with my hydo copper 780. As far as the rad goes XSPC or EK?

 

[MxPhenom 216]

Any photos of your 800D?



I think I'm gonna just role with my hydo copper 780. As far as the rad goes XSPC or EK?

Neither.

Black Ice Nemesis:
http://www.performance-pcs.com/cata...t_info&cPath=59_457_667_200&products_id=40655

or

AlphaCool UT60
http://www.frozencpu.com/products/1...pper_Triple_120mm_Radiator.html?tl=g30c95s161

 

[GhostRyder]

Any photos of your 800D?



I think I'm gonna just role with my hydo copper 780. As far as the rad goes XSPC or EK?

Some are a bit old from when I was still doing work to it hence the poor cable management but you get the idea.

As far as xspc vs EK on rads, either are good choices in my book as both are great companies!

 

[springs113]

Mx I like both solutions but what is so special about the black ice?
What do you guys think about the H220x?
Acrylic or regular hose tubing?

 

[MxPhenom 216]

Mx I like both solutions but what is so special about the black ice?
What do you guys think about the H220x?
Acrylic or regular hose tubing?

I know nothing about acrylic tubing. It looks sweet, but looks like it can be a bit of a pain in the ass to get the right bend since its trial and error it seems. Heat up, bend, test fit, repeat.

From what I understand the Black Ice nemesis is the new top dog in radiators.

 

[GhostRyder]

Mx I like both solutions but what is so special about the black ice?
What do you guys think about the H220x?
Acrylic or regular hose tubing?

Stick to regular hose tubing, acrylic is something that I would not recommend for you.

As far as radiators go, Mx is right in that the black ice nemisis is known to be one of (If not the) best radiators out there but I still stand behind XSPC being great as well along with EK.

 

[springs113]

Stick to regular hose tubing, acrylic is something that I would not recommend for you.

As far as radiators go, Mx is right in that the black ice nemisis is known to be one of (If not the) best radiators out there but I still stand behind XSPC being great as well along with EK.

So i guess black ice it is. Why not on the tubing?

I know nothing about acrylic tubing. It looks sweet, but looks like it can be a bit of a pain in the ass to get the right bend since its trial and error it seems. Heat up, bend, test fit, repeat.

From what I understand the Black Ice nemesis is the new top dog in radiators.

I just love the clean nature of acrylics.
I found this lil video...actually video 5 is more ideal but you get the point.

 

[MxPhenom 216]

So i guess black ice it is. Why not on the tubing?


I just love the clean nature of acrylics.
I found this lil video...actually video 5 is more ideal but you get the point.

I don't really like arcylic, especially on water blocks, and I prefer colored tubing over clear, because dyes are just down right fail.

 

[GhostRyder]

So i guess black ice it is. Why not on the tubing?


I just love the clean nature of acrylics.
I found this lil video...actually video 5 is more ideal but you get the point.

Much more difficult to deal with was my reasoning, its not bad but using a regular set of clear tubing is a much easier thing to do in my opinion. I have kicked around building one before but in all honesty besides the clean cut look it gives I see not much of a point to it.

 

[springs113]

I don't really like arcylic, especially on water blocks, and I prefer colored tubing over clear, because dyes are just down right fail.

Have you seen the new h220x, what do you think?
I've got a mpower... what color scheme do you think I should dive into?besides yellow.
what about these...?
http://www.performance-pcs.com/cata...roduct_info&cPath=59_381_389&products_id=4307
I was thinking of a white and black color scheme.

Much more difficult to deal with was my reasoning, its not bad but using a regular set of clear tubing is a much easier thing to do in my opinion. I have kicked around building one before but in all honesty besides the clean cut look it gives I see not much of a point to it.

I heard bad things about dyes...or i just buy the pre mixed one from koolance.