Frame upgrade kit Thermal Grizzly TG-CSF-AM5 Aluminium Black

The Thermal Grizzly TG-CSF-AM5 Aluminium Black is a combined contact frame and CPU guard designed for AMD Ryzen 7000 series processors. Manufactured from anodized aluminium, the frame replaces the stock SAM (static alignment mechanism) on the motherboard and encloses the CPU heatspreader. An optional silicone foam inlay is included to protect exposed PCB components and to seal the gap between the heatspreader and the aluminium frame.

Advantages

The precision-milled inner contour provides multiple contact points to the heatspreader, which distributes contact pressure more evenly than the standard SAM and helps ensure uniform seating of the CPU on the socket pins. The aluminium construction offers rigidity and durability while the included silicone foam prevents thermal paste or liquid metal from reaching unprotected processor components when pressed onto the PCB. The foam is optional with standard thermal paste and mandatory when using liquid metal. The frame ships with four mounting screws and features markings that ensure correct orientation during installation.

Suitable for

• AMD Ryzen 7000 series desktop processors (AM5 platform)
• Users replacing the motherboard's default SAM for improved pressure distribution
• Builds where liquid metal is applied and PCB protection is required

Key specifications

• Model: Thermal Grizzly TG-CSF-AM5
• Material: Anodized aluminium
• Color: Black
• Includes: Silicone foam inlay and four mounting screws
• Compatibility: AM5 socket, compatible with Thermal Grizzly AM5 backplates

How to use

Place the aluminium frame over the CPU area aligning the top marking with the bulge on the socket's northern edge; the orientation allows mounting in only one direction. If using the silicone foam inlay, set it onto the processor PCB beneath the frame so that, when the frame is mounted and tightened with the supplied screws, the foam is pressed to form a seal between the heatspreader and the frame. Apply thermal paste or liquid metal to the heatspreader according to the thermal compound manufacturer’s instructions. Note that the foam inlay is optional with standard thermal paste but required when using liquid metal.

Recommendations

Install the frame only with the socket-compatible backplate and the included screws; always follow CPU and thermal paste/liquid metal manufacturer guidelines to avoid damage to the processor and motherboard.