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Abstract
The goal of this research project is to design a cost-effective thermal interface material (TIM) testing apparatus alternative to more expensive, commercially available testing units. The TIM tester will follow the ASTM standard D5470-12 for testing the thermal properties of different TIMs. TIMs are used between two solid surfaces to enhance the heat transfer by displacing air gaps from the interface. TIM has a higher thermal conductivity than air and therefore can lower the contact resistance at the interface of interest to prevent overheating of the system. The ASTM D5470 setup consists of two meter bars and heat flow is made one-dimensional using proper insulation. The temperature gradients in each meter bar, heat flow, and the TIM’s thickness was measured to determine its thermal resistance and conductivity through fundamental heat transfer analysis.
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