How to clean copper heat sink?

[Nats]

I've open my case monthly to clean it and make
sure no dust builds up on my hsf or case fans.
I currently have a Ttake Volcano 7+ and the
top of fins is so full of dust. I've used clean
paint brush to try sweep the dust away but
there's still a layer that's just stuck there. What's
the best way to get rid of it? Do I use a solvent
or something?

 

[KingofFah]

Try using an airduster.

 

[Budman]

take the fan off & when you have a bare heatsink just throw it in your kitchen sink with soapy water & wash it clean.
Make sure it's fully dry before reinstalling it.

 

[Noid]

Compressed air from Radio Shack is kinda expensive, but it works
I sometimes see home supply stores with 4 to 6 can packs on sale

When I can ,,, I use Dawn dishsoap and a stiff plastic bristle brush when I take it off
(usually after re-lapping with 2000 grit)

 

[dkozloski]

Mix up a solution of photographic acetic acid stop bath and soak your heat sink in it for a few minutes. It will come out shining like a brand new penny. You might also try that stuff you clean the bottom of RevereWear pans with.

 

[Nats]

thanks for the info. i guess i need to dry it
by putting it in front of a desktop fan. wouldn't
green colored corrosion develop when the
copper gets wet?

 

[EdipisReks]

a little shouldn't really affect performance. a nice patina makes your heatsink look classy .

 

[bgeh]

Originally posted by: Nats
thanks for the info. i guess i need to dry it
by putting it in front of a desktop fan. wouldn't
green colored corrosion develop when the
copper gets wet?

yes, but you can use ketchup(yes you heard that right:Q) to clean it up

 

[EdipisReks]

its only because ketchup has vinegar in it. acetic acid (the active ingredient in vinegar) dissolves the corrosion. regular old white vinegar would work a lot faster than ketchup.

 

[zephyrprime]

If you can, see if there are any kinds of airfilters you can put on your air intakes. There are metal screen filters that are made specifically for your problem. And to clean dust, canned air is the only way to go. Well, that and compressed air. Microcenter has 3 for $10 right now if you have any in your area.

 

[pillage2001]

Originally posted by: Nats
thanks for the info. i guess i need to dry it
by putting it in front of a desktop fan. wouldn't
green colored corrosion develop when the
copper gets wet?

Crap, I've been cleaning my SK6 that way for a few times now. I better check on it.

 

[EdipisReks]

Originally posted by: pillage2001

Crap, I've been cleaning my SK6 that way for a few times now. I better check on it.

i wouldn't worry about it.