Metalwork fabrication. Keyboard frame specifically - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: wilfred
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 18, 2019, 04:31:06 am
content: I am a member of a group that has a member trying to get replica keyboards made. For Aussies they are like the Dick Smith Super-80 kit Z80 computer and the Microbee.Where can you get this sort of thing made? Is there a place like exists for PCBs? The frame is simply a sheet metal with folded down edges for rigidity and about 64 square holes for the keyswitches to clip into.

author: Fire Doger
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 18, 2019, 09:32:00 am
content: If the design is derived from a metal sheet it can be done by anyone who owns a laser or a punch.I would search for refrigerator manufacturers because they provide custom refrigerator designs and other stainless steel structures made from sheets for anything related to food shops, cooking etc... You may be lucky and get a cheap one made from their scrap...If it's derrived from a solid body then you have to look for someone who makes machined parts and mill it. Much more expensive.

author: beanflying
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 18, 2019, 09:40:52 am
content: Waterjet or Laser in Oz will be your normal options for small runs after that any competent metal fabricator could do the bending or welding needed.You could get them milled but generally the first options will make more sense. The other option to consider is Fiberglass and resin depending on the look you want in the finished product.Where in Oz are you?

author: SMTech
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 18, 2019, 10:52:50 am
content: You might find some integrated EMS providers also do the sheet metal work. In the UK JJS would be an example of someone who can cut bend paint & print on metal and also make you a PCB.

author: Kasper
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 18, 2019, 05:39:01 pm
content: 3D Hubs just added sheet metal to their capabilities.I haven't tried that but found their website very helpful for learning about 3D printing and CNC and have had decent results with their 3D printing service.

author: Geoff_S
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 18, 2019, 10:02:34 pm
content: You could try Protolabs. Not sure how they'd compare to a local Aus sheet metal fabricator, but they specialise in short run/prototypes and do sheet metal amongst other things.

author: tszaboo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 25, 2021, 10:03:29 pm
content: If you are trying to make a mechanical keyboard replacement for it, drop me a pm. I designed and made a few KBs like that, I can clue you up on it, or help you design it.

author: jmelson
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 27, 2021, 03:55:24 pm
content: Look for an outfit that has a CNC "turret punch". Some common brands in the US are Amada, Houdaille, and Trumpf. These have a big turret loaded with punches and dies, and an XY positoner for the sheet material. They can punch out your keyboard outline in just a minute. Some more elaborate machines have folding dies that can fold up the outer sides of the box, too.Jon