EK-KIT S Series User Guide

About EK Water Blocks

EK Water Blocks is a premium liquid cooling gear manufacturer founded by Edvard Knig. The company offers a wide range of products, including CPU water blocks, radiators, fans, and all-in-one (AIO) solutions, catering to overclocking enthusiasts and PC builders worldwide. The EK-KIT S cooling solution aims to bring extreme liquid cooling performance to gamers and PC enthusiasts.

Welcome to EK-World!

Safety Precautions

1. Keep the product away from children.
2. Check all components before installation. Contact the seller for replacements if issues arise.
3. EKWB d.o.o. is not liable for damages caused by improper use, electrical issues, accidents, neglect, alterations, repairs, or improper installation.
4. Incorrect installation can damage the CPU and motherboard.
5. This kit comprises original EKWB parts. Using non-EKWB parts may void the warranty.
6. Product warranty period is 24 months.

Scope of Delivery

The kit includes the following components:

• CPU water Block with AMD® mounting plate
• CPU Backplate mechanism
• Thermal grease
• CPU Mounting mechanism
• Fans
• Pump-Reservoir combo
• UNI Pump Bracket
• Compression fittings
• Radiator
• Coolant
• Tube
• ATX Bridging plug
• Fan cable Y-splitter
• Adapter cable
• Installation manual

Required Tools

• Phillips-head screwdriver
• Mixing bottle
• 1L Bottle of distilled water
• Pair of scissors

Quick Installation Guide

Radiator Space Constraint Requirements

Details the dimensions for different radiator sizes:

• 120mm Radiator: 120 mm (4.72 in) width, 160 mm (6.30 in) height, 26 mm (1.02 in) thickness.
• 240mm Radiator: 120 mm (4.72 in) width, 280 mm (11.02 in) height, 26 mm (1.02 in) thickness.
• 360mm Radiator: 120 mm (4.72 in) width, 400 mm (15.75 in) height, 26 mm (1.02 in) thickness.
• 140mm Radiator: 140 mm (5.51 in) width, 180 mm (7.09 in) height, 28 mm (1.10 in) thickness.
• 280mm Radiator: 140 mm (5.51 in) width, 320 mm (12.60 in) height, 28 mm (1.10 in) thickness.

Dozen Good Advices for Newcomers

1. Use distilled water with the coolant concentrate.
2. Never use tap water; always use the provided coolant concentrate.
3. Avoid alcohol or alcohol-based solvents, as they can damage acrylic parts.
4. Position the reservoir above the pump to ensure the pump is always flooded.
5. For optimal performance, place the reservoir before the pump in the loop.
6. For optimal performance, the CPU water block should follow the radiator.
7. For optimal performance, the pump should precede the radiator.
8. Perform a leak test before using the computer.
9. If leaks are found, immediately turn off power.
10. Optimize tubing length to prevent kinks.
11. Never let the pump run dry to avoid damage.
12. Periodically clean the radiator assembly using a soft brush and vacuum cleaner.

Liquid Cooling System Diagram

Illustrates the flow: Cold air enters the radiator, passes through fans, cools the liquid. Heated liquid flows from the CPU water block to the radiator. The reservoir-pump combo circulates the coolant.

General Information on Water Block Compatibility

The EK-Supremacy MX UNI water block is pre-assembled for modern Intel desktop sockets (LGA-115x, LGA-2011(-3), LGA-2066) and AMD® AM4 sockets. For AMD AM4, the Intel mounting plate must be replaced with the provided AMD® one.

What is Enclosed

The package includes:

• EK-Supremacy MX UNI universal CPU water block
• PreciseMount MX UNI universal CPU mounting mechanism (M4 thumb screws, LGA-2011 M4 mounting studs, springs, M4 thumb nuts, washers)
• AMD® mounting plate
• EK-Supremacy Backplate (with rubber gasket and backplates for Intel LGA-115x and AMD AM4 sockets)
• EK-TIM Ectotherm (1g) thermal grease

Installing the Water Block

LGA-2011(-3) Socket Motherboards

1. Step 1: Prepare the mounting mechanism. Install four LGA-2011 M4 thumb screws into the motherboard's integrated latch mechanism (ILM). It's recommended to remove the motherboard from the PC chassis for easier installation.
2. Step 2: Clean the CPU's contact surface with a non-abrasive cloth or Q-tip. Apply thermal compound (EK-TIM Ectotherm) using a blob or line method; about two rice grains is sufficient. Avoid excessive application.
3. Step 3: Remove the protective foil from the water block. Align the water block over the mounting screws. Place compression springs and thumb nuts onto the screws. Partially tighten thumb nuts in a cross pattern, then fully tighten them by hand until the thread ends.
4. Step 4: Tighten the fitting barbs clockwise until the gasket is compressed. Ensure the port nearest the center is used as the INLET port for optimal performance.

LGA-115x Socket Motherboards

1. Step 1: Remove the motherboard from the PC chassis and place it face down.
2. Step 2: Prepare the backplate rubber gasket. For LGA-115x, the inner part of the rubber gasket may need to be removed.
3. Step 3: Install the rubber gasket and the metal backplate onto the back of the motherboard (ribbed side up). Align holes and ensure the gasket fits past the CPU socket ILM backplate.
4. Step 4: Install four M4 thumb screws with 0.7mm plastic washers. Tighten screws to the metal backplate until the thread ends; avoid using tools.
5. Step 5: Clean the CPU surface and apply thermal compound as described for LGA-2011.
6. Step 6: Align the water block over the mounting screws. Remove the protective foil from the water block. Place springs and thumb nuts on screws and tighten them by hand.
7. Step 7: Ensure the correct port is used as INLET. Tighten fitting barbs clockwise.
8. Step 8: Install the CPU water block assembly back into the PC chassis.

AMD® Socket Motherboards

1. Step 1: Remove the Intel mounting plate by unscrewing the four M4x14 screws.
2. Step 2: Replace it with the AMD® mounting plate. Reseat the O-ring gasket. Reinstall and tighten the M4x14 screws clockwise.
3. Step 3: Remove the motherboard from the PC chassis if installed.
4. Step 4: Remove original hold-down clamps and backplate using a Phillips screwdriver.
5. Step 5: Prepare the rubber gasket (use the whole gasket for AMD sockets).
6. Step 6: Install the rubber gasket and AMD® metal backplate (ribbed side up) onto the motherboard. Align holes.
7. Step 7: Install four M4 thumb screws with 0.7mm plastic washers and tighten them.
8. Step 8: Clean the CPU and apply thermal compound.
9. Step 9: Align the water block and tighten the thumb nuts by hand. Ensure the correct port is used as INLET. Tighten fitting barbs.

Installing the Radiator and Fans

Option #1: Installing the Radiator and Fans

1. Step 1: Mount fans onto the radiator using UNC 6-32x30mm screws. Ensure optimal airflow direction (cold air intake or hot air exhaust).
2. Step 2: Prepare the PC chassis for the radiator unit, aligning mounting holes.
3. Step 3: Secure the radiator to the chassis using UNC 6-32x5mm screws.
4. Step 4: Install compression fittings onto the radiator's G1/4 ports and tighten clockwise.

Option #2: Installing the Radiator and Fans in One Go

1. Step 1: Prepare the PC chassis for the radiator unit.
2. Step 2: Align fans with the radiator and chassis mounting holes. Mount fans to the radiator using UNC 6-32x30mm screws, considering airflow direction.
3. Step 3: Install compression fittings onto the radiator's G1/4 ports and tighten clockwise.

Installing the Pump-Reservoir Unit

1. Step 1: Mount the pump-reservoir unit onto the EK-UNI Pump Bracket using M4x4 screws and PVC washers. The unit can also be mounted directly to a 50x50mm mounting hole pattern.
2. Step 2: Secure the bracket to the PC chassis using M4x6 screws. Ensure proper alignment with chassis mounting holes or drill new holes if necessary.
3. Step 3: Secure the M4x6 screws with M4 nuts and PVC washers.
4. Step 4: Connect the tubing to the pump-reservoir unit, ensuring the INLET and OUTLET ports are correctly identified. Tighten fitting barbs clockwise.

Connecting the Tubing

Follow the water cooling scheme for optimal routing. It is recommended to connect the radiator's outlet to the water block's inlet for the coldest fluid delivery.

1. Step 1: Visualize tube routes and measure required lengths, adding extra for adjustments.
2. Step 2: Ensure tubes are not bent or twisted.
3. Step 3: Remove fitting rings by unscrewing them counter-clockwise.
4. Step 4: Slide the fitting ring onto the tube. Install the tube onto the fitting barb. Heating the tube in warm water (40-50°C) may help.
5. Step 5: Slide the fitting ring towards the barb and tighten clockwise. Repeat for all fittings.

Electrical Connections

Connecting the Pump-Reservoir Unit

Connect the pump's 4-pin PWM cable to a CPU-dedicated fan header on the motherboard for optimal PWM regulation. For initial filling and leak testing, connect the pump directly to the PSU.

Connecting the Fans

1. Step 1: Use the EK-Cable Y Splitter to connect multiple fans to a single header. Connect female fan connectors to the male splitter connectors.
2. Step 2: Connect the female EK-Cable Y splitter connector to the motherboard's male fan header, preferably a CPU-dedicated one.

Recommended Filling and Leak-Testing Procedure

This procedure ensures safe initial operation.

1. Step 1: Disconnect all PSU power connectors (except for the 24-pin ATX). Plug in the EK-ATX Bridging plug to enable jump-starting. Connect the EK-Cable Pump Testing Adapter's SATA power header to a PSU SATA connector. This setup allows only the pump to run.
2. Step 2: Connect the EK-ATX Bridging plug to the 24-pin ATX PSU cable. Connect the PSU SATA power connector to the pump testing adapter.
3. Step 3: Unplug the pump's 4-pin PWM connector from the motherboard. Plug it into the male 3-pin FAN connector on the EK-Cable Pump Testing Adapter.

Filling the System for the First Time

1. Step 1: Prepare the coolant by mixing 100ml concentrate with 900ml distilled water. Store remaining concentrate in a PET bottle.
2. Step 2: Remove the reservoir top cover. Protect surrounding hardware with paper towels. Pour the pre-mixed coolant into the reservoir until it's about 2 cm below the top.
3. Step 3: Verify the EK-ATX Bridging plug and Pump Testing Adapter are correctly connected. Turn on the PSU briefly to check if only the pump is running.
4. Step 4: As the pump runs, coolant will be pushed through the system. Continuously fill the reservoir. Alternatively, cycle the PSU power on/off to speed up air bleeding. Once the level stabilizes, fill to 2 cm below the top and screw the reservoir cap back on.
5. Step 5: Shake and tilt the chassis to dislodge any trapped air in the radiator. Add more coolant if needed.
6. Step 6: 24 Hour Leak Test: Run the pump for at least 24 hours to ensure no leaks. After a successful leak test, reconnect all PSU power connections and finish building your PC.

Draining of the Loop

Follow these steps to drain the cooling loop before disassembly:

1. Step 1: Turn off the computer and unplug the power cord. Prepare paper towels. Unscrew the pump-reservoir unit from the PC chassis. Place a container under the unit.
2. Step 2: Unscrew the fitting ring on the outlet port. Gently pull the tube off the fitting and direct it into the container.
3. Step 3: Disconnect the other tube from the inlet port. Keep one tube in the container and blow into the other to help drain the system. Tilt the unit or remove the top cap to drain completely. Keep tube ends over paper towels to prevent spillage.

Possibilities of Expanding the System

Custom water cooling loops can be expanded for increased cooling capacity. A general rule is to use at least one 120mm radiator section per water-cooled component plus one spare. For example, cooling a CPU and a high-performance GPU might require a 240mm or 360mm radiator.

The manual mentions expanding with an additional GPU water block, radiator, or reservoir. Follow the installation manual for new components and ensure optimal tube routing and fitting installation.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity:

• Tip 1: Dust Removal: Clean dust every 2-3 months using a vacuum cleaner or compressed air. Focus on the radiator. Ensure the PC is powered off and unplugged.
• Tip 2: Checking Electrical Components: Annually check pump and fan operation. They should run silently and respond to PWM changes.
• Tip 3: Cleaning the Unit: Annually flush the radiator, check and clean the pump, and consider changing tubing. Drain all coolant first.
• Tip 4: Use EK Designed Parts: Use genuine EK Water Blocks parts and add-ons to prevent performance, compatibility, and warranty issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Compatibility with Narrow Server Type LGA-2011 Motherboards

Narrow server type LGA-2011 is not supported by default. The Supremacy LGA-2011 Narrow ILM mounting plate is required. For LGA-1366 and LGA-775, follow the AMD® socket installation manual, removing the inner core of the CPU backplate rubber gasket.

Water Block Capacity

The EK-KIT SLIM can be upgraded with additional parts. For optimal performance, it's recommended not to exceed one GPU water block for EK-KIT S240, and two for S280/S360. The pump can handle up to 4 GPU water blocks if the loop is extended with an additional radiator.

Flow Rates

The kit typically operates at about 180 L/h. Adding a GPU water block may reduce flow to ~160 L/h, and two blocks to ~145 L/h. For best performance, run the pump at 100% duty cycle when using multiple water blocks.

Push-Pull Fan Configuration

Yes, additional fans can be used in a push-pull configuration. UNC 6-32 30mm screws are recommended for standard 120x120x25mm fans. These screws may need to be purchased separately.

Daisy-Chaining PWM Splitters

Yes, the included PWM splitter can be daisy-chained with other EK-Cable Y-Splitter cables, provided the total power draw does not exceed 12W (1A on +12VDC) from the motherboard's fan header.

Thermal Performance

The nominal cooling capacity of EK-KIT S units is listed in a table:

• KIT S120: 128W (dT=10K), 191W (dT=15K)
• KIT S240: 255W (dT=10K), 383W (dT=15K)
• KIT S360: 383W (dT=10K), 574W (dT=15K)
• KIT S140: 165W (dT=10K), 248W (dT=15K)
• KIT S280: 355W (dT=10K), 533W (dT=15K)

* Vardar 120 @ 1850rpm, ** Vardar 140 @ 1600rpm.

Nominal capacity indicates heat removal with a 10°C or 15°C liquid temperature increase over ambient. For example, cooling an overclocked CPU (150W) and GPU (225W) at 22°C ambient could result in liquid temperatures around 37°C, with GPU core temperatures around 47-52°C.

Troubleshooting

In Case of CPU Overheating

High CPU temperatures may indicate issues with the liquid cooling loop:

1. Malfunctioning Pump: Check if the pump is plugged in and vibrating. Observe flow indicators.
2. Malfunctioning Fans: Ensure fans are plugged in and rotating.
3. Kinked Tubing: Check tubing for kinks that restrict flow.
4. Clogged Microchannels: Inspect water block internals for debris. Clean if necessary.
5. Improper Thermal Interface Material (TIM): Ensure correct application of thermal paste.
6. Coolant Freezing: Operate the system in environments above 5°C.

Overheating can also be due to CPU issues, such as poor thermal contact within the CPU itself, which may require TIM replacement or de-lidding (voids warranty).

For further assistance, consult the EK knowledge base at http://support.ekwb.com/.

The Cooler is Too Loud

Ensure fans are set to PWM mode in the UEFI/BIOS, not DC mode. Consult motherboard manuals for specific settings (e.g., ASUS, ASRock, Gigabyte, MSI).

General Liquid Cooling Parts Cleaning Guide

Liquid cooling components can be disassembled for cleaning. Cleaning bare copper may involve mild acidic agents like vinegar or lemon juice. Nickel-plated copper requires gentle cleaning with non-abrasive materials and polish. Acrylic parts should only be cleaned with warm, soapy water. POM parts can be cleaned with soft cloth and soapy water.

Preventive Steps

1. Use corrosion-inhibiting coolant (e.g., EK-CryoFuel) to prevent algae growth.
2. Avoid Copper Sulphate additives to prevent tarnishing.

Support and Service

For assistance, please contact EKWB d.o.o. at http://support.ekwb.com/.

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