Thermal Paste Ever Go 'Off'?

[lettuce]

So thermal paste thats in the tube does it ever go off and should be thrown out?. Had some Artic Silver for about 5 years now and am wanting to use it but not sure if its still good?

 

[Minstadave]

If it’s not dried out it’s fine.

 

[Pocah]

Most manufacturers usually have a time after which you should replace it. But I am not sure anyone ever paid that any attention.

 

[Ice Tea]

High Durability
In contrast to metal and silicon thermal compound, the performance of MX-4 does not compromise over time. Once applied, you do not need to apply it a second time as it will last at least for 8 years.

MX-4 seems to be the only manufacture that guarantees their product and tells people to leave it alone for 8 years unless anyone knows of any others?

 

[Glanza]

If it's still fluid when you push some out then it's good to go, issues arise when it's not stored correctly and dries out.

 

[faheemrazzaq]

I never had any issues with AS5, MX-4, Coolermaster, thermal drizzly, etc when stored properly.

 

[Blackjack Davy]

I had some AS5 on a cpu/heatsink for at least 5 years when I pulled it apart it was as fluid as the day I put it there considering the years and temperature fluctuations in use I was honestly astonished.

 

[pandem0nium]

Thermal grizzly comes in a zip lock bag. Keeps it from drying out.

 

[NeverWinter]

AS5 should be fine.

 

[faheemrazzaq]

Thermal grizzly comes in a zip lock bag. Keeps it from drying out.

Exactly and is my weapon of choice for sometime. Performs better than MX-4/AS5 in my experience.