Where to get a custom aluminum piece made? (Nixie Clock Enclosure)

[aphex]

What type of places would make a custom aluminum case?

I want to have one made similar to this one;
http://www.store.tubeclock.com...14milledflatfront3.jpg
http://www.store.tubeclock.com...in14milledflatback.jpg

His wouldn't fit though, different size.

 

[Specop 007]

I've used these guys before with good results. Aint cheap though. Your other option would be to look for a local machine shop.

 

[LordMorpheus]

Find a local machine shop. Something like that would probably cost a few hundred dollars.

edit: that e-machine shop looks pretty cool. I doubt they'd be a whole lot more expensive than a local shop, so it's probably worth it just for the convienience.

You could get a quote from them and get a quote from some local guys and make your decision that way.

 

[alkemyst]

look up machine shops/metal working in the yellow pages, show up there with your pics (no way to describe this on the phone). Get a few quotes then negotiate.

 

[LordMorpheus]

Looking at your picture, it's probably easier than you think - it looks like he just got an aluminum box (I'd bet the bottom is open), and beveled the edges with a grinder, just did a very good job of it.

All those holes could be put in there with a drill. Drill press is easier, but you can put neat holes in aluminum with a handheld (for big holes drill a small hole, slightly larger hole, etc to get a really clean final hole)

If you wanted to be really cheap about it (it might even look cool) you could use some U-cross section aluminum extrusion for your enclosure - it'd look the same as that enclosure but the sides would be open, showing off any gubbins involved. You can get a finish like the ones in the photos using sandpaper.

 

[Bignate603]

If you want something like that milled out of a solid block it will be pricey. If you can find something close (find an already made metal box) and then trim it and pop some holes in it it will save a huge amount of time.