Need help to build enclosure.

[Mille]

Ok i found some people that works metal near my place, but i need to choose the size for the case.
So i need to know about your precedent experiences
My scanner is on a single plate 500x500x10 mm (alluminium).
I want to do a "U" enclosure with a base of 500x500 and 150mm of height, that will be covered and closed with a (reverse and perpendicular) "U" of the same size.
My questions are: how much thick have to be the enclosure?
And wich meterial i have to choose?
Alluminium? Steel? Iron? Adamantium?

Please i need all your knowledge about this

[Steve Milani]

Aluminium, 3mm

[Mille]

Thanks Steeve, do you think 3mm is enough?
I'm planning to add a handle to get it suspended on stage, i don't want everything to crash down

And what about the handle? Is better if i make it with iron to support better weight?

[Onge]

All the cases I have seen are made from between 1mm to 2mm steel or zintec either folded to make a box with a seperate lid or all seperate pieces joined by 90degree angle iron. The mounting "handle" has been made from folded steel as well, but can't tell the thickness because of the way it's been folded, most probably 5mm.

But I am sure there are as many variations of what enclosures are made of.

The disadvantage of aluminum is that has little elasticity over steel and will dent easier. Yes it is easier to cut holes out as it is softer but it is also easier to make mistakes and threading on thin sheet you will more than likely end up stripping the threads out so you would need to use bolts and nuts.
Also aluminum needs to be etched or Alu-Chrom'ed before it can be successfully painted or powder coated.

Hope that helps,

Onge

[Laser Ben]

3mm aluminum would be ideal, just leave a bit more material around bolt holes, etc... For the internal optic table, use at least 10mm aluminum for stability and heat purposes.

[edison]

have a look at this thread maybe this will do the thrick

http://www.photonlexicon.com/forums/...ead.php?t=6357

[Anthony]

have a look at this thread maybe this will do the thrick

http://www.photonlexicon.com/forums/...ead.php?t=6357

edison...

Did you read his post?
he is looking for a enclosure with a base of 500x500 and 150mm.
the nice boxes you posted are not 500x500 as far is i can see.

i afraid he has to go the custom route for his enclosure.

[dave]

The problem with aluminum is it does not hold clinch nuts well at all - its just too soft. 3mm aluminum wont fold well at all either. Forget about it..

I would say 1-1.5mm steel is the best option, especially if you are getting someone else to cut the holes

[edison]

sorry i didn,t read his thread very well. a little too enthousiastic to help.......