Mounting the metal heatsink/fan on the silicone (read glass) microprocessor die iis risky business. A "shim" is the solution.
This shim is an insert that is placed on top of an AMD T-BIRD or DURON type of processor to protect the die from crushing damage. It consists of a metal top with shiny smooth copper bottom. Tabs along edges insure perfect alignment to eliminate the possibility of accidental electrical contact with jumpers. The heat conductive copper is also reported to help reduce CPU operating temperature.