120mm Radiators

120mm Liquid Cooling Radiators

A radiator is just as important in a water-cooled system as the water cooler itself, because the radiator must dissipate the heat absorbed by the water. This is achieved through its finned surface, which is cooled by a fan, at least in an active radiator. With a 120mm radiator, a 120mm fan can be mounted accordingly. 120mm radiators are especially suitable for midi-towers. However, even in a larger tower, a 120mm radiator can be useful if not too many sources need to be cooled or if space needs to be saved for other components in the case.

Material and strength are crucial in selecting the fan

For the 120mm radiator, as with all other radiators, attention should be paid to the fan to be mounted on it, its cooling performance, and its material. Copper or brass is usually used as the base material for a radiator, and it may be additionally nickel-plated. It is important to ensure that the material of the radiator matches the rest of the water cooling circuit to prevent chemical reactions with other elements in the water cooling system. Most 120mm radiators have two G1/4 ports to connect them to the water cooling circuit and four holes specifically designed for 120mm fans.

120mm radiators with an integrated pump are less common. In these models, only an appropriate cooler is needed to complete the water cooling circuit. Even with a 120mm radiator, one should consider how many sources need to be cooled by a water cooler.

When purchasing a 120mm radiator, the following points should be considered:

• Does the combined performance of the radiator and fan suffice for the respective water coolers?
• Does the 120mm radiator waste too much space in the case?
• Is the material of the 120mm radiator compatible with the other materials in the water cooling circuit?