At Mercouris, we understand that managing heat in electronic systems is critical for performance and reliability. Many components generate substantial amounts of heat during operation, and if this heat is not properly dissipated, it can reduce the device’s operational life and efficiency. That’s where thermal paste comes in—an essential tool in ensuring optimal thermal conductivity between components and heat sinks.
What is Thermal Paste?
Also known as a thermal compound or heat transfer compound, is a substance applied between surfaces to improve heat dissipation. Its primary role is to fill in the microscopic gaps between a component (like a CPU or transistor) and a heat sink, eliminating air pockets that act as thermal insulators. The result is more effective heat transfer, keeping components cooler and more stable.
At Mercouris, we offer a comprehensive range of thermal interface materials, including industry-leading products from Dowsil and Electrolube, each tailored to different needs and environments.
Dowsil 340 – Heat Sink Compound
Dowsil 340 is a white, highly filled, one-component thermal paste designed for efficient thermal coupling in critical electronic applications. With no need for curing, it delivers:
- Good thermal conductivity (0.67 W/m·K)
- Non-flowing stability
- Long shelf life (1800 days)
- Use in industries such as aerospace, batteries, and lighting
It is widely applied to transistors, diodes, rectifiers, and power elements requiring consistent and reliable heat management.
Electrolube Thermal Pastes
Electrolube HTC – Non-Silicone Paste
HTC is a general-purpose, non-curing thermal paste formulated without silicone, making it suitable for sensitive environments where silicone contamination must be avoided. It offers:
- Cost-effective heat dissipation
- Good thermal conductivity (0.90 W/m.K)
- Wide temperature stability (-50°C to +130°C)
- Easy application and rework
- Prevention of LMW siloxane migration
Electrolube HTS – Silicone Paste
For applications demanding a wide operating temperature range, HTS offers exceptional thermal performance:
- Based on silicone oil for extreme temperature stability (-50°C to +200°C)
- Good thermal conductivity (0.90 W/m.K)
- Non-curing for ease of maintenance and rework
- Excellent thermal coupling between components
Electrolube HTSP – High Thermal Conductivity Silicone Paste
HTSP is the go-to choice when maximum heat dissipation is required:
- Superior thermal conductivity 3.0 W/m.K
- Extreme temperature stability (-50°C to +200°C)
- Very low viscosity for easier application
- Wide operational range
- Non-curing formula ideal for rework
All Electrolube products are tested using heat flow methods that account for surface resistance, ensuring reliable thermal conductivity data.
Thermal Paste Application Tips for Best Results
No matter how advanced a thermal paste is, its performance depends on proper application. Only a small amount is required to fill the voids between contact surfaces. A thin, even layer applied with a spatula, brush, roller, or automated system is ideal. Excess compound should be removed to prevent build-up and potential hot spots.
Why Choose Mercouris for Thermal Paste Solutions?
At Mercouris, we provide tested and reliable thermal paste solutions designed to meet the unique challenges of your thermal management needs. Whether you require silicone-based pastes for high-temperature environments or non-silicone options for sensitive applications, we offer a full portfolio to ensure efficiency and durability.
Frequently Asked Questions About Thermal Paste
Is Thermal Paste Really Necessary?
Yes, it’s absolutely necessary in most electronic applications where components generate heat. When two solid surfaces, such as a microprocessor and a heat sink, are joined, microscopic air gaps remain due to surface imperfections.
Air is a poor conductor of heat. Thermal paste fills these gaps, improving thermal transfer and ensuring that heat is efficiently dissipated away from critical components. Without it, devices can overheat, leading to performance issues or reduced lifespan.
What Does Thermal Paste Do?
Thermal paste acts as a thermal interface material. Its main function is to enhance the contact between electronic components and heat-dissipating surfaces, such as heat sinks or radiators. By filling in the micro-imperfections between the surfaces, thermal paste significantly improves the overall surface area for heat transfer. This results in:
- More efficient heat dissipation
- Reduced risk of overheating
- Increased reliability and performance of components
- Extended operational lifespan of electronic devices
In short, it plays a critical role in the thermal management of any heat-generating electronic system.