Stainless Steel computer case fabrication

johndonglong

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Feb 27, 2015
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I have a few questions for consumers.

Is anyone interested in hand-fabricated stainless steel cases? This weekend i'm going to take my first shot at making one at my shop and see how that goes. I have a few things i might need to workout (ie proper cooling).

So i was wondering 2 things.
1. Would people be interested in stainless steel cases?
2. What are some suggestions before i make this case.


If this ends up going well i might do this for some cash, and do custom orders (as long as specifications are supplied)
Anyways, input is appreciated.

Im going to include some pictures in-case people don't know what stainless steel looks like, i linked 2 pictures of the types of metals i could use. i have more but for now these are the cheapest and i have the largest supply of.

Easy-clean-for-Stainless-Steel.jpg


closeup-texture-diamond-metal-plate-23751456.jpg
 

Lucias OKeefe

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Jun 18, 2013
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These could turn out really nice. My advice is to ensure proper cooling and leave more slots designed around intake than exhaust, that way you get some positive pressure inside the case and they'll naturally avoid dust. Have you thought about adding designs to the side panel? What are some ways you can treat the metal to create a unique look, even though the polished steel would already look pretty sweet.

Are you able to roll the edges? It might be more trouble than it's worth but it'll make the case millions of times easier to work in and around.
 

johndonglong

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Feb 27, 2015
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Yeah i could roll the edges we have some pretty large industrial equipment aswell. And for designs, i can powder coat it, or etch it with acid (That sounds like it might look nice) And i might* be able to make the metal like hardened steel. (http://static3.depositphotos.com/1000363/108/i/950/depositphotos_1085357-Stainless-steel-fork.jpg)

the things im currently worried about, is component placement (for the motherboard and the gfx card) and cable management holes to the back panel, although i might just look at my current case and use some of them.
 

Lucias OKeefe

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Jun 18, 2013
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I'd personally take some inspiration from high end cases with their routing paths and see where reviews thought they could be improved.

It would be interesting to see a custom logo printed onto the case, that's certainly something people would pay a lot for and as far as I know isn't easily available especially on a personal basis.
 

johndonglong

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Feb 27, 2015
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Im sure custom logos would be pretty easy, maybe even cutting it into the case and replacing the cut area with plexi glass, or just etch it in. I might end up putting the drive bays on the side instaid of the front of the computer (just rotate them 90 degrees) since i have my computer at the angle. I have a few ideas so far. just worried about the back plate aswell.