Noctua’s 3D-Printed Mod Silences the Framework Desktop
▼ Summary
– Framework supports upgraders by releasing 3D-printable case parts and using standard components, despite non-upgradeable memory.
– Noctua developed a cooling mod for the Framework Desktop that reduces noise by 5-7 decibels using a 3D-printed fan duct and side panel.
– The noise reduction comes from a spiral-patterned fan grill that allows lower fan speeds while maintaining airflow, based on blade geometry.
– A redesigned funnel-shaped fan duct and a smaller, safety-compliant grill are key components of Noctua’s cooling upgrade.
– Noctua found that adding an 80mm exhaust fan increased noise disproportionately to cooling benefits, and a newer fan model ran quieter but struggled under load.
While the Framework Desktop may not offer upgradeable system memory, its design philosophy actively encourages customization through standardized components and 3D-printable case parts. This open approach has attracted a community of tinkerers and modders, with PC cooling specialist Noctua now stepping into the spotlight with an innovative noise-reduction solution for the system.
Noctua’s latest contribution involves a downloadable 3D-printable fan duct and custom side panel, engineered to reduce the noise output of the Framework Desktop’s stock cooling setup by five to seven decibels. Remarkably, this improvement requires no replacement of internal hardware, just a printed accessory and some assembly.
Central to the design is a uniquely patterned fan grill, which Noctua previously applied to a high-wattage Seasonic power supply. The spiral layout of the grill works in harmony with the fan blades, allowing air to move efficiently even at lower rotational speeds. This reduces turbulence and minimizes the sharp pressure changes that typically cause fan noise.
Noctua explains that the grill’s radial struts are angled opposite to the fan’s rotation, preventing the blades from aligning directly with the grill structure. This careful alignment avoids the rapid pressure spikes and drops that contribute significantly to acoustic output. Although slightly scaled down to meet safety requirements, the Framework version employs the same aerodynamic principles.
To further enhance performance, Noctua also designed a funnel-shaped duct that replaces the original component. This new duct improves airflow direction and efficiency, working alongside the grill to maximize the acoustic benefits.
For those considering additional cooling modifications, Noctua shared some practical insights. Adding an optional 80 mm exhaust fan at the front of the chassis did yield minor temperature drops, but the accompanying noise increase outweighed the thermal gains. Similarly, swapping the default NF-A12x25 fan for the newer G2 model resulted in quieter operation under normal use, though its lower maximum RPM made it less effective during heavy workloads. For most users, the printed mod offers the best balance of cooling performance and noise reduction.
(Source: Ars Technica)
