Gamer builds copper-pipe RAM heatsinks in 45 minutes

On July 14, 2026, Reddit user sunrise2209 posted photos of homemade RAM heatsinks made from recycled copper pipe. The post said each heatsink took about 45 minutes to make.

The builder cut, split, flattened and shaped sections of copper pipe into plates sized to fit memory modules, then polished the metal for a finished look. The photos show the pieces installed on old DDR2 test sticks; the builder noted thermal interface pads would be added before use on working modules.

The stated motivation was cost savings: commercial RAM heatsinks typically sell for about $20 each, and using scrap copper reduced that expense while allowing the maker to customize the fit.

Commenters praised the workmanship and raised safety concerns. They warned that bare copper near exposed module contacts can create a short circuit if it bridges points on a module or the motherboard. Several commenters urged use of insulating or thermal interface pads and careful alignment before powering a system.

The builder pointed to copper’s thermal conductivity and the metal’s ease of shaping with hand tools as reasons for the choice. Commenters added that most memory running at factory settings rarely reaches temperatures that require extra cooling in a case with normal airflow.

Several responses noted that added cooling provides clearer benefits when memory is run with higher voltages or aggressive timing, conditions more often associated with DDR5 overclocking than with stock DDR3 or DDR4 kits.

The post illustrates a hands-on approach to cutting accessory costs: the heatsinks are inexpensive in materials but require roughly 45 minutes of work per module and careful insulation to avoid electrical damage.