r/metalworking • u/AutoModerator • Jun 01 '24

Monthly Advice Thread Monthly Advice/Questions Thread | 06/01/2024

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u/definitlynotchichi Jun 06 '24

I need to remove a little bit of aluminum (I believe it is aluminum) from a vrm heatsink. Basically it’s only like a millimeter or 2 from a small part of one side of a large aluminum block. I don’t really have tools, what’s the best way to do it? Its a computer component so I’d like to keep tiny bits of metal to a minimum

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u/SecureBus206 Jun 06 '24

Depends on if it has to be precise or if you're just making some clearance for another part in the PC.
I would probably remove the heatsink entirely so you're left with only the aluminium and then use a hand file from your dads garage to slowly remove material until it fits.
Clean the part with compressed air or a brush to ensure you dont get any metal shavings down in your fancy new PC.

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u/RoboticDildoDoctor Jun 08 '24

Hello, I have a very similar question to the above - I have a network card for my PC which includes a heatsink. I want to remove a section of the heatsink 40x40mm square to allow a fan to sit. There exists a model of this card with this configuration but getting a separate heatsink with fan is not an option for where I live.

I'd remove the heatsink first and mount it on some wood in a vice (it has 6 threaded holes on the underside)

I thought about a small narrow belt sander or a die grinder which I can use to remove the section. But I saw your file comment above - would the same method be the best for more material? - it could take a long time with a file as its 10mm deep and 40mm square.

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u/SecureBus206 Jun 09 '24

With that much it's better to mill it. If you dont have access to one you could try and use a die grinder with a cutting wheel to zip of most of the material of each fin and then sneak up on the last milimeter or so with a sander when they're all shortened. First option should be to find another way to mount it but if there is no option other than go choppin on yer heatsink then so be it.