Own Case Design

[stevebarnes15]

Hi all, i am starting a new build shortly, and would like to ask if anyone has ever commisioned there own design to a case, and if so how much roughly it costs for laser cutting etc.

This would include chassis aswell.

All input greatfully appreciated.

 

[airdeano]

sb, i had talked to a laser firm about just cutting the metal and it was very
reasonable if you allow them to incorporate it into another job of same/like
metal. if not, then costing can go upwards really quick.

one-off run on 12 500mmx 500mm pieces was to run $3.95 each on combo
and $12.95 each on an individual run, plus metal cost.

then comes fabrication/bend-break/punch. this is where the cost really
sky-rockets. depending on bends, complex corners, press/punch, drill/tap,
stress-relief, and other operations from $0.05-$XXX.XX each piece and then
comes CAD/CAM.

since i can design using CAD/CAM and can export a file to use on their table,
that was free, otherwise $125 per hour or if you can contract to another
source for cost preferential.

another option is a $2500 DIY CNC and you can cut till your heart or wallet
gives out.

 

[tinytomlogan]

if its just flat panels on a frame dont bother. If its a propper case with folds and actual desing gone into it then it will cost a mint because case manufactirers actually have tooling designed to make the cases.

If you do it cheap it will look it at the end of the day.

 

[stevebarnes15]

cheers guys, i kinda guessed it wouldn't be cheap.
Definitely looking at a one off custom job with some sleek curves and cut outs for lighting and optical drives, just wanted to find out a bit more before i bite off more than i can chew so to speak.

 

[tinytomlogan]

cheers guys, i kinda guessed it wouldn't be cheap.
Definitely looking at a one off custom job with some sleek curves and cut outs for lighting and optical drives, just wanted to find out a bit more before i bite off more than i can chew so to speak.

Unless you are a master of 3d design and actually know a proper fabricator its pointless. You are looking at mega bucks mate and if Ive leanred anything you have 99.99% chance of it being a waste of money