[TowerTalk] RE; Finding AL Tubing and other Metals

[Roger (K8RI)]

N7KA at comcast.net wrote:
> Its a bit pricey but try to locate a METAL SUPERMARKET near you.  I use one in ABQ, NM, when I need small qty.  They carry, or can order almost anything hams would use. 
>
>   
I'd look for a local Aluminum supplier. There's a large one about 20 
miles from me. I found them by asking metal fabricating shops where I 
could find some sheet and tube stock. Aluminum sheet and tube are pricey 
even at discount, but many of the suppliers will even cut the sheets to 
shape. I don't know about bending. Small metal brakes (say to make the 
tube sub chassis in an Alpha 76) are relatively simple to make from rod 
and steel angle.  You do need a welder and access to a mill or a friend 
who is a machinist.  Normally the socket cut outs are punched, but a 
small hobbiest mill, or one of those small lathe and mill combinations 
can do cutouts that look professional. Standard Aluminum chassis are a 
tad on the flimsy side. If you don't want to bend up a sub chassis, just 
get some angle and make one like an erector set. Use either screws or 
pop rivets for fasteners. I haven't found any of the press in captive 
nuts yet.

73

Roger (K8RI)
>
> Arne N7KA 
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