Editor’s note: This article has been refreshed to remove legacy third-party claims and keep the guidance practical for current PC service work.
Thermal grease is used between a processor heat spreader and a cooler base to fill microscopic surface irregularities. It is a thin interface material, not a replacement for a correctly mounted heatsink.
Before applying thermal grease
- Check whether the cooler already has factory-applied material. If it does, do not add another layer.
- Confirm that the cooler, socket and mounting hardware match the processor. Follow the current equipment manuals.
- Power down, disconnect the system and let the assembly cool before service.
A controlled application
- Remove the cooler and clean the processor heat spreader and cooler base. Use a lint-free wipe and an appropriate cleaning method; allow the surfaces to dry.
- Apply a small amount to the center of the heat spreader. The required amount depends on the interface size and the material instructions.
- Lower the cooler straight down and tighten the mounting hardware in the sequence and torque specified by the cooler maker.
- Do not lift and reseat the cooler after contact unless you clean and reapply fresh material.
When to choose another material
A thermal pad or phase-change material may be the correct choice when the assembly has a defined gap or a specified dry interface. Do not use grease to fill a gap that requires a pad, and do not select by conductivity alone.
For model-specific material selection, see the CTG8 product details or contact Technical Help with the interface geometry, pressure, temperature range and application.
Source: Intel’s current TIM application and removal guidance. Product values remain controlled by the applicable Maxtor TDS/SDS.