The Data
As all our testing for 360mm radiators are performed with the exact same equipment, using the exact same methods we have decided to (try and) keep each radiator’s pages uncluttered by posting our testing methodology, test set-ups and equipment used in a single location. To see exactly how the tests were carried out, details of the test set ups and equipment used, please head back to the RRU Test Setup page.
Restriction Test
It is generally agreed that radiators are one of, if not the least restrictive components in the water cooling loop. There are some exceptions however, so this must still be verified through testing:
The above photo is for referencing the restriction test bench The BP-NLS360 is not loaded so please disregard the data in the picture as it does not relate to the its test results.
Here is the raw data at the tested flow rates, displaying the measured Differential Pressure across the radiator as flow rate was increased.
The table numbers indicate that the BP-NLS360 is a high restriction radiator, very high even we suspect. Very few radiators have gotten the better of the Iwaki RD-30 pump and not being able to hit the maximum 3.5 GPM mark on the flow meter is quite some achievement for the radiator (in a bad way). Numbers in isolation however only tell half the story. By plotting against other components it more easily shows the whole story.
We use a HeatKiller 3.0 CPU block as the reference in this next plot for two reasons. Firstly there is little chance of the plot being cluttered by curves overlapping and secondly it gives a reference point against a fairly common loop component of average restriction.
As with all previous radiator restriction plots, we have limited the maximum flow rate displayed to 2.0 GPM as we suspect there are very few systems that operate above 2.0 GPM. For more information on how to read a restriction plot check out our guide.
Well we did say there are exceptions. Knowing that the BP-NLS-360 shares some DNA with the Nemesis GTS series from HWLabs, we weren’t exactly surprised to see such high restriction numbers. We don’t like it, but that’s the way these thin tubed, single row radiators are designed.
Given there was such a high restriction readings and a cross-over to boot, we thought why not display the full range of the test also.
This plots indicates the BP-NLS360 is a medium to high restriction loop component when compared to a CPU block of average restriction, but what about other radiators?
The next three plots show the restriction level at three different flow rates compared to the other Slim 360mm radiator that have been tested. We consider the chosen GPM rates to represent systems which have low, medium and high flow rates. Additionally, spoilered plots have been included which show the comparisons against all the 360mm radiators.
Finally lets now take a look at where the BP-NLS360 fits in relation to all the radiators we have tested. For this plot, only results for 1.0 GPM have been used for the comparison.
When put into context with all the radiators at 1.0 gpm, the BP-NLS360 fits our criteria for a very high restriction radiator. This means consideration for pump power is advised if intending to run more than one of these radiators in your loop.
Onwards to Thermal Performance!
Another great and detailed review from you guys.
It’s interesting that the Leviathan *cough* L-series *cough* is noticeably not as good as the 360GTS considering similar characteristics with what looks to be a shroud with inverted sides as the only variation. I was considering getting an L-Series but I think for a small, slim radiator to fit in offset top mounts like my Arc Mini R2 I’d be more likely to look at the Magicool G2 Slim, or Darkside LP360 versus this. The Magicool seems to be a sweet spot radiator for slim versus performance. The original GTS seems to be top but the 133mm width can occasionally cause problems with clearance in cases with said offset top mounts.
I love that you summarize the thermal performance with immediate competition so I don’t have to flip back and forth between tabs to compare slim or thick radiators.
Keep up the great work!
I send all my water cooling buddies here when they ask about “is this enough radiator for my setup?”
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