Regular computers rely on heat sinks and internal fans to keep internal components cool. The heat sink draws away heat from the central processing unit (CPU). The heat sink and other computer components warm the surrounding air and cool down in the process. The fans push out hot air and draw in cool air from the outside.
In many cases, proper airflow is enough to prevent temperatures within a computer system from reaching devastatingly high levels. Some people, however, are fond of using high-end components and goading their computers into faster speeds. Faster speeds unfortunately result in higher temperatures.
Heat sinks, fans and air circulation — no matter how efficient — are sadly not enough to cool down overly active computer components. For severe overheating problems, water cooling may need to be employed.
Water cooling uses water to draw heat away from hot computer components. Water can absorb heat faster than air. Water can also take in more heat than air. In terms of heat conduction, water cooling is more effective than air cooling.
In a water cooling system, water blocks draw heat away from hot computer components. Water blocks are hollow metal structures that act as heat sinks. They are placed in contact with computer components that are prone to overheating such as memory chips, the CPU and the graphics processing unit (GPU). To aid in heat exchange, a thermal paste is spread between a component and the attached water block.
The water blocks are attached to tubing through which water passes. Cool water enters a water block through one tubing and cools down the block. Heated water exits through another tubing. The heated water is carried to a radiator located at the back of the computer case where it is cooled. To help the radiator cool the heated water, a fan can be employed.
A pump regulates the flow of water through the tubing system and water blocks. When the heated water cools, it is circulated back into the system for another round of heat exchange.