CPU Fan Shroud - Node 202 Cryorig C7 AM4

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The Fractal Design Node 202 boasts an impressive appearance, but unfortunately, its thermal management leaves a lot to be desired. I built a rig featuring a Ryzen 1700 paired with the Biostar mini ITX motherboard and opted for the Cryorig C7 cooler due to its native compatibility with the case at the time. The issue lies in the fact that the case lacks positive ventilation, causing the cooler to recycle hot air within the case. To address this problem, I initially installed a 15mm thick fan above the CPU, but it didn't fit snugly, leading me to explore alternative solutions. After adapting some existing work by manypopes, I created a duct that directs fresh air from the vent above the CPU to the fan, ensuring constant airflow and effectively ventilating the rest of the case. The modified solution comprises two key components: the main shroud, which replaces the filter above the CPU, allowing users to add filter material or utilize a 140mm square magnetic filter attached to the outside of the case. The other piece is a flexible flange that encircles the C7 fan, providing a pliable seal for the main shroud. To visualize how these components interact, I've included a cross-section image featuring the main shroud in blue, the flexible flange in yellow, and the Cryorig fan shroud in pink. For those considering this solution, it's worth noting that while it improved thermal performance, it didn't enable me to push my CPU to its full potential. If you're using a 1700X or 1800X, the C7 cooler may not be sufficient. In my case, I upgraded to a Big Shuriken 2, which required some creative modifications – manufacturing custom metal brackets, trimming my RAM heatsink, and removing excess material from the CPU cooler's fins. After three days of tinkering, I successfully integrated it, witnessing a remarkable temperature drop of up to 30C at high voltages and frequencies. The Big Shuriken 2 is rated for closer to 100W compared to the C7's 65W, reflecting its superior performance capabilities.