Lapping IHS and Waterblock Bases

[Bazz]

Has anyone ever tried something like this?

I have seen many posts of the subject on other forums about waterblocks I would never consider buying.

Does anyone have any thoughts/suggestions for current-gen components (build quality/is it worthwhile?/difference in temps)? I know the dies on most processors are a fraction of the surface area of IHSs, so is concavity or convexity a pro or con? Would mounting pressure help more without voiding my warranty?

Just looking for a little input from a performance perspective!

[DazMode]

Blocks are already polished. I would rather use Indigo Extreme other that polishing.

[gdesmo]

Actually a very good question, most IHS covers have a slight curve in them. Reasoning is that the pressure of block or air cooler will compress the top of IHS to make for a better contact to the die. That being said, it is always better to start off with a premium TIM solution. Ivy's and Haswell both benefit to high degree if you have the balls to delid the IHS completely or even replacing the TIM between the die and the IHS with again a high quality TIM. Latter can see a 7-15 degree improvement. Be careful with excess mounting pressure as you can actually bend the pins in the cpu mount.

[bungwirez]

ya, delid FTW. especially now that EK has the Naked Heatsink adapter.

[Bazz]

I guess I have some thinking to do lol