[TowerTalk] RE; Finding AL Tubing and other Metals

[Roger (K8RI)]

jimlux wrote:
> Roger (K8RI) wrote:
>   
>> 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.
>>     
>
> Or, frontpanelexpress.com
> They have a simple drafting package you download which has stock 
> cutouts, tapped holes, as well as any sort of shape you can draw.  It 
> quotes it online, you send in the order with your credit card, and a 
> week later, the beautifully machined panel arrives at your door.  Lots 
> of different thicknesses and finishes, as well as filled engraved 
> lettering, etc.
>
>   
I'm almost certain I'd use them for the panel complete (lettering, 
cutouts, *autograph*)<:-))
> Angle stock, premachined panels, and you get a pretty nice end product 
> (especially if you need things like D-sub cutouts.. or even nicer 
> "double D" punches for BNC connectors)
>
>   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.
>>
>>     
>
> PEM fasteners
>   
Thanks,

73

Roger (K8RI)
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