Read the physical anatomy
The model shows the real sequence: thin interface layer, plated base, five U-shaped pipes, dense fin tower, clipped 120 mm fan, and spring-loaded mount.
THERMAL ATLAS
120 mm Single-Tower CPU Air Cooler
A representative 120 mm tower cooler clamps a plated copper base to the CPU, spreads heat through five U-shaped 6 mm heat pipes and about 50 aluminium fins, then drives it toward the case exhaust with a front PWM fan.
Generalised teaching model based on common 120 mm single-tower coolers. Pipe count, dimensions, fin geometry, and mounting hardware vary by product.
Follow the closed heat-pipe cycle
Liquid evaporates near the base, vapour carries energy upward, condensation heats the fins, and the internal wick returns liquid to repeat the passive cycle.
Treat airflow as a system
Fan pressure, fin spacing, dust, orientation, and case exhaust all affect the final silicon-to-room-air thermal resistance.