Just curious about something

[crystaldragon]

Just curious about something, since there are a few of you posting about cutting openings in cases.

Have any of you thought about just calling any local heat and air shop that does sheet metal work?

A fan hole should take an experienced sheet metal guy about 5-10 mins tops, including leaving an acceptable smooth edge.

I have a farly extensive background in HVAC (including sheet metal fabrication). To me it just looks like another hole in metal. Just mark where you want it, grab the snips, cut the waste out (slightly undersized), grab the die grinder (or dremel) and smooth the opening edges. Done! An experienced tinner should easily be able to cut a 2' hole with his snips and leave almost no distortion, just a few burrs.

BTW That is one of the reasons I recommend a nibbler They will easily cut through metal 50% thicker than most cases and leave an edge that needs almost no clean up. Plus they don't require any experience to get good results, and there isn't any need to be careful that your workpiece doesn't slip /spin.

[Martoch]

I'm embarrassed to say that I've never heard of a nibbler, CD!
Oh, and the sheet metal shop thing...I think most people want to feel the sense of "ownership" in the project...it wouldn't be the same if somebody else did the modding, would it? [shrug]

[crystaldragon]

Martoch !!

Just so you can never say that again. Here is a link to one at directron.

And I do understand the sense of pride in doing the work yourself. I just was wondering why someone with no experience would want to risk injury for something that can be so simple. After all they are still responsible for layout, design, and all the detailing.

[stroyal]

That is a great looking tool. I'll have to give it a try.
When you said nibbler, I was thinking the powered kind.

[crystaldragon]

Originally posted by stroyal
That is a great looking tool. I'll have to give it a try.
When you said nibbler, I was thinking the powered kind.

I thought about that but I didn't really think too many people would want to buy a tool that cost as much as some processors!

Besides the hand powered ones are easier to control, just slower ( they usually take a maximum cut of 1/16" per stroke)

BTW speaking of power have you ever been around an air powered nibbler? That's some serious cutting speed!

[Omardeth]

hole saws are the best for cutting fan holes .
all ya need is some clamps tape and an piece of wood and you got a nice clean fan hole in no time .