[dreamci]

Hello guys i want to make computer case for myself is there anyone that knows which material is used to make the cases aliminium or steel or what please help me if you know . Thanks

[blackbeard52]

I am assuming you are talking about the controller (drives and power supply case) Most are using old PC cases and removing the plastic front and pop riviting or screwing a flat piece of metal to it for motor connection and parrallel or just using the rear of the box. Using a modern case is best as the side panel can be removed without the top and other side. the motherboard mounting area is usually removable so it makes for a handy, easily drilled surface to mounting surface out of the box.

Bob

[dreamci]

hi blackbeard you misunderstand me i am talking about the real computer cases not a case for my cnc control equipment.
i want to make something like this and want to know what material it is made of please tell me if you know thanks

[Weldtutor]

i want to make something like this and want to know what material it is made of please tell me if you know thanks

Cases are usually made of steel.
Check if a magnet is attracted to it for a simple test.

[ger21]

Cases are usually made of steel.

Some of the more expensive ones are aluminum, though. An aluminum case is much, much lighter than a steel case.

[dreamci]

Hmm but isnt aliminium cheaper than steel

[ger21]

Nope. It's much more expensive.

[MFassler]

Make it from aluminum,for one it'll be a ton lighter,if you do something cool like grain it,it will look awesome. Try and measure the gauge of material they are using. True its not cheaper,or be really badass and make it from titanium or something One would also kinda assume most cases arent machined,probably stamped out then bent.

[blackbeard52]

The PC cases I buy are typically steel.... I have bought maybe 3 out of hundreds that are Aluminum. The costs vary but average $25 -$50 US for steel and $75 - $100 US for Aluminum. You cannot build one for less out of anything. Your time is worth more than that.

Bob

[#.0]

The aluminum cases dissipate heat better than steel and they won't rust.

Before building your own you might want to check out newegg.com they have some nice looking rack mount cases that might work well.

[dreamci]

hi i want to make one for myself and i will make it watercooled my computer makes so much noise
and #.0 i checked it there are nice cases but it would be fun to make my own design also i want to ask if there is anyone who build their own case
blackbeard thats bad news for me, i always thought i could make much cheaper than the ones in the market so i was wrong

[High Seas]

For many people the time spent building something is, "to valuable to put a price on." So they don't. Yes your time will be worth a lot - the question is how much time and what are you willing to pass up during that time spent.
I think it was Ghandi that said (something like), "...Live each day as if it were your last -- learn as if you'd live forever."

You have a challenging project. Acrylic won't insulate noise much - but shows off the interior. Aluminum can be powder coated -- or anodized - so there are multiple opportunities to learn a new thing or two.
BTW - Welcome aboard!
:cheers: Jim

[blackbeard52]

IMHO I would want to spend the time on things that were really costly and leave the minute things for the import guys.(like cases) you can always modify the off the shelf case to whatever you want it to be... to me a more penny wise decision.

[dreamci]

you are right so how about making the case and selling it

[blackbeard52]

Hahaha.... I guess you are right I would be exporting it to you.... lol

No thank you... The guys in Korea and China have that area cornered...I cant make the case for $2.50 US and sell it for $25.... But hey have a go at it...your dime...One thing us Americans have is VALUABLE spare time......hahahah.

[ger21]

I got a $100 aluminum case for $25 at a day after Thanksgiving sale. I was going to build my own, but why bother for $25.

[Torque1st]

Buy a case and modify it. Water cooling usually still has fans for the "radiator" unless it is huge.

[ckm]

http://www.protocase.com/

Figure $300-$500 for a custom case.

Chris.