practicality of 3d printing a chassis

[1832vin]

ok, let's cut to the chase.

i would like to have a custom case for myself, and i am adequate in 3d modeling

while i do not have a 3d printer, i plan on using something like [shapeways] to print it for me, because i need the frame to be metal.

what is the practicality of it?  i heard that 3d printing shrinks, so would the motherboard holes not be in the correct position?

[Guest]

Indeed the holes may get offset with normal plastic but I believe that certain types of materials don't shrink or at least don't shrink nearly as much. However, you have to understand that the material is fairly expensive and you'd probably spending some $200+ worth of materials @ $50 per kilograms. Not to mention consumer 3d printers generally have some fairly steep limitations for the size of the pieces you can make, so you'd most likely have to make pieces that need to be assembled and then you have to figure out how to make it look seamless.

 

It could be a cool project but it won't be cheap and it's a serious amount of work.

[DarkRift5]

It would probably work (just keep in mind you'll need to make the frame yourself), BUT it would be UNBELIEVABLY expensive. You could easily buy a giant awesome case for less than it would probably cost- that includes the Enthoo Primo and Phantom 820... probably even a Cosmos 2 would be cheaper.

 

 

If you really want to do it, it'd probably work, though.

[BurgerBum]

it can definately work...

just.... expensive...

its really only worth it if you have the money, and have a specific layout that no one makes.