I know this really isn't a case mod, but while I'm at school all I have is my laptop due to space constraints. My biggest problem is that my laptop constantly has its fans running at full speed, which is quite loud at night. I've been doing extensive shopping online for a laptop cooler, except none of them would fit my laptop, as the fans aren't space out normally, but both located on right left underside of the laptop. As a result, any laptop cooler I buy would cover up both fans, and that's not really want I want. Also, I'd like to get some experience working with aluminum and custom jobs to prep me for my summer project (overhauling the PC, custom case, etc.).
So, I'd like to build something like this (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...2E16834999336), except with the fan holes located in a different area. Unlike the laptop coolers, I don't plan on adding the fans - this would simply be a molded piece of aluminum that would sit under my laptop. Depending on how well it works, I may do some work on it afterwards to add in fans, USB dock, and LEDS. But for now, I simply need to make this initial piece.
The question is: how would I do this? I've never worked with any aluminum before, so I have really no idea where to start. After looking around on the forums, it seems my first step would be to go out and get the aluminum and a dremel to cut it. I'm wondering 1) what other than a basic dremel would I need (attachment wise, for cutting the holes, smoothing out the edges, etc.), 2) where to get the aluminum, and what kind (it has to be sturdy enough that it won't bend under the weight of a 8 pound laptop). Also, what's the best way to go about shaping the actual aluminum? Would it be best to shape the aluminum to achieve my edges, or instead cut multiple pieces and somehow attach them via bolts or wielding?
I hope what I just wrote was understandable. Any advice or comments would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.