Electronics Enclosure Material?

[iancaz]

Right now my electronics are (loosely) living in a battery box I got for $9 off of Amazon (link).

I was planning on replacing it once I got this running, with a metal enclosure with a door. Little did I realize that you're talking ~$100 for a decent sized metal box with a door. Which got me thinking, do my electronics NEED to be in a metal box? Would a plastic, or wooden enclosure work just as well, assuming everything was well grounded?

If I do need a metal box, does anyone have a line on an inexpensive place to find one?

[acourtjester]

You can use wood or plastic just fine, here is a nice plastic box the owner used metal panels for mounting the wiring Jacks.
https://www.plasmaspider.com/viewtopic. ... 03&t=31028 I think his box came from Amazon
another type here
https://www.plasmaspider.com/viewtopic. ... x&start=25

amazon
https://www.amazon.com/Dustproof-Electr ... x270x150mm

[ScottRa]

If you have trouble with noise or interference when using a nonferrous box just get some copper foil to line the inside of the box. Guitar builders sites are a good source. You can get self adhesive foil. Just make sure you have good continuity on all sides and solder a wire to it for grounding.

Scott

[manac]

I just picked up a NEMA 2 20x24x9 with panel for 200 @ EnclosureHub.
Not cheep but nice.
I like steel, a little stronger and quieter. Having a sub/back panel makes a little cleaner, easier install.

[iancaz]

Awesome, thanks for the great advice & quick reply! That definitely knocks the cost down a bit!

@manac I'll have to check them out for my next build. This one needs to be "on the cheap". I'm already over budget & the wife has yet to see the rewards.

[acourtjester]

Here is what I used on the last 2 tables I built from Harbor Freight , worked out great. All the electronics fitt in the draw.
Closes up completely, I have a flip out shelf for the keyboard and the monitor mounts on the inside of the top.
https://www.harborfreight.com/30-in-bul ... 64002.html

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[Rodw]

For when you have a plasma cutter, you can build your own.

toroid box.jpg

Not a full control box I know. I had to get some one to fold this up for me but now I have my own press brake...

[adbuch]

These are all great tips and ideas! Thanks for sharing.
David

[acourtjester]

RodW is correct you can cut the parts and build your own, I have done that too but it sure eats time.

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new controller cabinet build (3).JPG

fileter cover (2).JPG

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[adbuch]

RodW is correct you can cut the parts and build your own, I have done that too but it sure eats time.
DSCN2032.JPG
new controller cabinet build (3).JPG
fileter cover (2).JPG
DSCN2421.JPG

Sometimes it's more fun to build, but buying pre-made sure saves time - unless you need something special that is not readily available.
David