A Question for Hersh

[Bill D]

What ga. SSTL did you use in your build? Was it easy to bend, requiring a brake?

Thanks
Bill D

 

[Hershal Byrd]

Hi Bill,
I mostly used 24 Ga.
Some pieces that I felt needed a little more strengh I used 22 Ga. I used 24 Ga on the
rear bulkhead, now I wish I had used 22Ga in
that spot. I had no difficulty in bending or
drilling. The panels are small enough that
the bends don't take a lot of force.
I bought several bits because everybody
told me how tough it was to drill. Well,
I'm on my second bit after 600 holes or more.
I highly recommend the stainless as it is
so much easier to take care of and it doesn't
scratch easily like aluminum. The weight
factor is neglegible in that it only adds
about 20 lbs.
I would recommend a good deburring tool.
After you cut a piece you need to deburr it.
That seems to be the only draw back with
stainless.

Hersh

PS...I use a large 4Ft. brake.

[ January 22, 2002: Message edited by: Hershal Byrd ]

 

[Bill D]

Thanks Hersh

I found some 20 ga laying around here at work, which I can get for free. Is it too thick?

Bill D

[ January 22, 2002: Message edited by: Bill D ]

 

[Hershal Byrd]

Bill,
The 20 Ga is OK but there maybe a few places
where I wouldn't use it. It would be great
for the rear bulkhead as the bends are nor
severe. Any flat panel would be ok. I
would stay away from using it if the panel
is long and needs a flange bent 90 degrees.

Hersh