Radiator query

[delpy8]

Hi guys
What colour is the casing on this as it looks white with the gold coloured rad inside?

http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=WC-180-XS&groupid=962&catid=1523

 

[Uncle Petey]

It's silver and the rad is unpainted copper.

 

[delpy8]

Thanks for confirming this

 

[mmj_uk]

One thing I wondered about this radiator is will the copper oxidation cause a reduction in cooling performance over time? is that why it's so cheap?

 

[delpy8]

One thing I wondered about this radiator is will the copper oxidation cause a reduction in cooling performance over time? is that why it's so cheap?

Good point?

 

[foop]

One thing I wondered about this radiator is will the copper oxidation cause a reduction in cooling performance over time? is that why it's so cheap?

I haven't been able to find any conclusive answers to that question, most places I looked said it was 'uncertain' or 'subject to debate'. The oxide layer on copper is typically very thin, and once it forms it reduces further oxidation of the copper. Even if there was an effect, I wouldn't expect it to worsen over time to a significant degree.

A copper-based radiator that doesn't oxidise will have to have been treated in some way, and that may in itself affect the performance.

I think the biggest effect will be a cosmetic one - will you like the way the radiator looks once it starts to oxidise?

 

[Bart_Hunt]

Its simple to fix.
Buy a Humbrol Varnish and spray a thin layer over the fins.
You will need to remove the casing for that.
Let it dry for a day before re-assembly.