Introduction

The water-cooling market is already quite large, and it continues to grow. One of the latest additions to the pool of equipment available for the consumer is the new PolarFLO waterblock by Horse of Iron, Inc. I was sent this water block without seeing photos first, so I was not sure what I was getting into. I expected your average, copper rectangle with some barbs stuck out the top - but what I got was the complete opposite. The PolarFLO water block is a radical new design, as I will explain throughout this review.

Specifications

Before I write about anything, I would like to get a list of the features out of the way. Looks aren't everything, if a waterblock doesn't have the basic features that you need, it's not worth buying it. I am pleased to say that the PolarFLO water block has all the features you could ask for. Here is the list:

• Size: 3.25" x 2.60" x 2.44" (L x W x H with hose barbs)
• Weight: Dry weight 10.9 oz
  
• Displacement: 5.1 cubic inches
• 1/2" ID hose barbs (one center intake, with two side exhausts)
• Solid copper base with a minimum of .05" between the water and CPU
  

More information may be found here at Horse of Iron, Inc., if you would like more detailed specs.

First Impressions

Without even testing this water block I knew it had something special. A professional, manufactured construction, and a high performance appearance make the PolarFLO has to be one of the best looking water blocks I have worked with. The body of the PolarFLO is made of anodized aluminum, with a sold copper base. The 1/2" ID hose barbs are plastic, with a 1/4" thread so easy swapping is possible if needed. The water block also comes with a Y fitting if needed for the out-barbs, and nonconductive mounting hardware for quick and secure installation.

The Victim

The computer I installed the PolarFLO on is an AMD XP 1600 CPU with a generic motherboard. I had previously set up a water-cooling system with various parts. The system consisted of: DangerDen Maze2 Waterblock (insulated from a earlier setup), two 80mm Swiftech Radiators, a 300gph Sicce inline pump, and a homemade PVC reservoir. I was using all 3/8" ID fittings and tube. The whole setup was running at 45c at idle after 30 minutes (of power on). Would the PolarFLO be able to beat this?

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