Molding Material

[Sherlock]

I'm some what new to the world of case modification. I have purchased and built custom computers before and even added an acrylic window and liquid cooling to my system. My next step now is actually building or molding a case from scratch. I've seen on the forums that everyone has a different technique, but I was just wondering what everyone suggests using to mold or add parts to an old case? What are your opinions on MDF, fiber glass, polyurethane, etc..? Pros and Cons. Thanks!

[rendermandan]

Each material has its own properties such as cost, ease of working/cutting, structural strenght, Weight and so on. So you have to consider what your going to be doing with the part to decide what the best material is to suit your needs. for instance, It would be difficult (not impossible) to make a 1/8" thick sheet of particle board. -However it would be easier to buy 1/8"t. aluminum or acrylic. Or, you can't bend aluminum into a compound curve surface such as a skull like you can with fiberglass or spray insulation.

So IMO, there is no best material, Its just what suits your needs.

I know that probably didn't help much. :)
oh and Welcome to TBCS!

[Sherlock]

Thanks renderman. I guess my question should be about each individual material then. I don't really have the time to go out and shop just yet, so any tips on where to look or what materials to use for certain types of constructions would be helpful.

MDF
Aluminum (i take it this comes in sheets: ~1/8")
Fiber glass
Carbon Fiber

Or anything else you guys can think of. Thanks.

[calumc]

I think that youre looking at this from the wrong side, the best way to do it is decide what you want to do and THEN look for a suitable material.
You'll probably find yourself using a combination of many materials in any mod. Eg: you might use an aluminium frame with acrylic sides and a fibreglass front.
So you shouldnt lock yourself to a single material before you even contemplate a design, if you had even a few simple sketches of what you would like to do just post them here and we can advise you.

Good luck!

[BurningGreen]

When using materials like fiberglass and such what tools do you need??

[Sherlock]

Thanks guys. I'm still coming up with the design for the case, and as soon as I do that I know who to consult!
Also, since BurningGreen asked, what tools do you need for each type of material? I'm going to be getting a dremel kit, and one that is worth the money. Anything else that I need in order to prep for modding a case? Thanks.

[rendermandan]

well, some other common tools would be a set of files, a straight edge, wire cutters, soldering iron, screw drivers, -Basic hand tools. Then or more advanced tools, A scroll saw is good, Drill press, table saw, etc. Again it all depends on the material and job.