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Laser Cut Cases

A project log for DIY HotPlate

An digital hotplate to rival the $300 version.

jupdykejupdyke 01/03/2016 at 02:270 Comments

I got some laser time and cut out some cases to mount everything into. I used 3/16 hardboard. You can get a 4' x 8' for $13. I used less than 1/4 of of a sheet to make all 3 cases and I was not really trying to conserve material. My store did not sell it in smaller sheets, so I will just have a lot left over. In a full sheet it feels pretty flimsy, but when you cut it into smaller parts and glue them into a 3d shape it is quite strong actually.

Here is a picture of the parts laying flat

And here is the dry fitting before gluing together.

And finally after gluing up, with the electronics in approximate location.

The next step is to mount things in place with screws and do all the wiring. At that point I should be able to start testing things out. I already have a similar heater working for my first injection mold that I made. If you are interested in some of the details of that project you there are a few posts about it on my other project logs. Here is a link to the first one"

Tank Chain - Aluminum Mold / Heater

As always there are a few minor changes I would like to make for future versions of this. The thickness of the board is not really 3/16" so there is a little over hang of the joints. I also think I should have the arduino mounted up on some standoffs, and I might make some of the holes a little smaller so you can screw into the wood. I also want to add some rubber feet so it sits on the table a little better. But nothing is perfect the first go around.

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