what is Alphacool Top all about on pump ??

[jamieufc]

Hi looking to buy Laing DDC2 12V 18w pump and notice some places that sell it offer Alphacool Top.

How do I no if I need a Alphacool Top ?

bit confused

 

[Jokester]

The standard Laing pump top has a restrictive inlet that hampers pump performance. Aftermarket tops basically fix it and improve performance, the different tops all perform much the same.

 

[PinkFloyd]

Most people buy a custom top to get a better choice in barb sizes, the standard top only has 3/8" barbs.

 

[jamieufc]

So for better performace I should get Alphacool tops ?

All so guys Do I need to buy and add fans to a ThermoChill PA120.3 or does it all ready have them ?, from pictures it doesn't really show any fans at all.

 

[Jokester]

Personally I would pay the extra for a separate top and as PinkFloyd says it also lets you use your choice of barbs.

You'll need to buy fans for the radiator.

 

[jamieufc]

YATE LOON 120mm fans a popular choice ?

and last daft ? what are barbs?

barbs plug directly in to the pump and you then add the tubing to the barb.?

 

[Jokester]

Yes, they give good performance across a wide voltage range (they'll run as low as 3V once started) and they're as cheap as chips.

Edit: Barbs are the bits that connect pumps/blocks etc to the actual hose, like this:-

http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=WC-006-EK&groupid=701&catid=193&subcat=1049

 

[jamieufc]

does it come down to personal preference when it comes down to barb size ?? what size are you using Jokester

 

[Jokester]

If I've got space I use 1/2" barbs with 7/16" Masterkleer tubing, if space is tight I use 10/8 compression fittings and Asetek Waterchill 10/8 tubing.

Most thread sizes in blocks etc are G1/4 screw thread, with the exception of Thermochill PA radiators that use 3/8" BSPP thread.

 

[PinkFloyd]

I use 1/2" barbs with 7/16" tubing also.