Dr. Delid from Aqua Computer is a compact tool to remove the heat spreader of Skylake and Kaby Lake CPUs. After replacing the thermal grease, the tool also allows to reinstall the heat spreader securely and precisely.

The heat spreader is gently separated from the CPU by twisting and requires no noteworthy effort from the user. This is important to avoid damage to the thin PCBs of the Skylake and Kaby Lake processors. When the heat spreader is rotated, the force is dissipated across all four edges of the CPU.

Aqua Computer has designed Dr. Delid to operate in a secure way so the customer does not have to worry about its expensive CPU. The delid disc which removes the heat spreader also locks the CPU so it can not jump out of the tool. The screw has a stop position so it can not be turned too far. After the removal of the heat spreader the CPU can be lifted through an opening in the tool without touching the gold contacts.

When the thermal grease has been replaced, another insert allows an exactly centered position of the heat spreader to glue it to the CPU again. A clamp which is inserted from the side uses a screw to apply some pressure to the heat spreader while the glue cures. Of course the screw is made of plastic and can not damage the surface nor does it allow applying a too high pressure.
  

Heat spreader removal process
Aqua Computer's no. 1 priority: Prevention of CPU damage

1. The processor is inserted into an exact, CNC machined recess in the acetal base. The relatively soft acetal material prevents damage to the CPU by excessive punctual pressure or scratching. 
2. Before the actual removal process, the CPU is locked in place. The tool can be handled without risk of the CPU dropping from the tool.
3. The removal process is facilitated by rotating the hexagon socket screw by hand using the supplied wrench. A mechanical stop limits the rotation of the heat spreader in the tool.
4. During the removal process, the heat spreader is secured in the tool. It can not hit the CPU die by accident.
5. After removal of the heat spreder, an aperture in the tool allows to lift the CPU from the tool without touching the gold contacts.

Reinstallation of the heat spreader
After cleaning the CPU and application of new thermal grease, insert the CPU into the tool again. Dr. Delid can be used for precise installation of the heat spreader:

1. A stainless steel frame for heat spreader alignment is inserted into a recess in the tool. The heat spreader can now be inserted into the frame, resulting in perfect alignment to the CPU. The heat spreader can be installed with glue (for instance silicone or polyurethane).
2. A stainless steel bracket supplied with the tool can be used to apply slight pressure to the center of the heat spreader, until the glue is cured. A knurled screw made from polyamide prevents damage to the heat spreader.
     

Dr. Delid can be already ordered in Aqua Computers webshop. The price is 29.90 EUR. Shipping starts at February 27th. More info can be found here.