Help cleaning thermal paste out of CPU socket

400plo87 · 31 Jul 2013

So a few days ago I was putting my CPU into my new motherboard. I accidentally applied to much silver thermal compound(conductive) and I ended up having it dribble down the sides. I decided it would be easier to clean my CPU if I took it out. When I pulled my CPU out of it's socket some of the thermal compound fell onto the socket. I went to the store and go some 91% isopropyl alcohol l. I used that and some Cotten swabs and toothpicks to try to clean out those tiny holes. I had most of it out but there was a little still in the bottoms of the holes. I wanted to make sure it was all out so I went and bought some precision electronics cleaner. All that did was spread the mess from a few holes on the side to random holes over the entire socket. What should I do to get rid of this stuff?

Here is a picture.
imgur.com/hUmnwaP

400plo87 · 31 Jul 2013

Does anyone know of anything that will dissolve the thermal compound so I can absorb it with a q-tip?

BigTabs · 31 Jul 2013

Intel or amd

400plo87 · 31 Jul 2013

It's an amd

BigTabs · 31 Jul 2013

Use alcohol 91%,very smalll amounts at a time on a fine bristle #1 or even #0 paint brush(usually found in a hobbie shop or art store).

You will need a couple of these brushes, and also some Q-tip brand cotton q-tips, the reasoning behind this is because other brands shread to much once wet. You will use this to absorb (gently) the dirty alcohol once applied to the thermal grease.

Gently direct the thermal grease out of the pins with the brushes first and swab it up with the Q-tips. Never spray anything into your board, as the forced moisture may find it's way inside of a crevice that it won't be allowed to dry quickly.

This is a tedious process, and must be performed gently and very cleanly done. Do not turn on your board until after you have looked at the socket with a magnifying glass and have certified that it is completely clean and dry.

BigTabs · 31 Jul 2013

Hope that helps

400plo87 · 31 Jul 2013

Thanks, and nice copy and paste. But I was wondering if anyone knew of something that would dissolve the silver thermal compound so I could easily soak it up. I think this would be safer because I could more easily make sure I get all of the thermal compound.

BigTabs · 31 Jul 2013

I would not have a clue mate

BigTabs · 31 Jul 2013

Have you got a picture of the problem

TVeblen · 31 Jul 2013

An easy experiment. Apply a small smear of thermal paste to the bottom of a small glass or porcelain container, add enough of whatever solvent you are trying out, wait a few minutes and see if it dissolves without agitation. If not, pour the liquid out and see how easily the smear cleans up without residue. Choose the best performer.

This is how you will clean the socket: apply just enough solvent to fill the holes, perhaps agitate with the toothpick, flip the motherboard over and pour the solvent out. Pat dry immediately. Repeat.

Unfortunately, silicone only dissolves in harsh chemicals like lacquer thinner and acetone. Very special care will need to be used when using these chemicals (to not damage the plastic) and they are very flammable. Not for indoor use.