Help building a desk out of aluminum

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Hi guys! I'm not a welder, but I guess this is the best place to possibly ask these type of questions since you all work with metals everyday.  Nonetheless, here's my issue.  I'm attempting to build a computer desk out of aluminum or steel (steel seems far too heavy)It will be a 5ft long by 3ft wide by 8in depth.  The top will be plexiglass, but the sides will form almost a complete box.  I can post a link to someone elses previous build that I'm working off.My questions are these:1) There are many different types of aluminum/steel.  What would be the best for either one?  2) How much on an estimate would it cost to have it welded together?Thanks!PS: Here's a link to the project that inspired me.http://www.bit-tech.net/news/modding...pc-in-a-desk/1
Reply:With all due respect based on the questions you asked it sounds like you're in way over your head for the project you have in mind.
Reply:Originally Posted by Old SkoolWith all due respect based on the questions you asked it sounds like you're in way over your head for the project you have in mind.
Reply:How much does welding labor go for? $60/hr and up? I do that kind of stuff for $30/hr. Look for someone on craigslist who is competent with aluminum and has pictures of aluminum stuff they've done... if you don't want to pay a shop.Welding/Fab Pics: www.UtahWeld.com
Reply:Your geo location will influence the average labor costs. Are you going to purchase materials, design, cut to size, finish surfaces post weld? If not, you will pay for logistics, design, prep, fit, welding, finishing. Also, you mentioned a weight concern..aluminum verses carbon steel. If it's to be a desk... moved once and stationary point on, why is the weight difference an issue? You will save on material and labor costs with the carbon steel.Miller TrailBlazer 251Miller HF-250-1Miller MaxStar 150 STLHyperTherm PowerMax 380 plasmaLincoln PowerMig 180Millermatic 252Miller Diversion 180
Reply:The best thing to do is to look up and approach a few welding/fabricating shops and ask for a quote.Thermal Arc Fabricator 2101970 Lincoln RedfaceMiller 150 STLStill need a Syncrowave and a plasma and a milling machine and a lathe and a bigger shop and a....
Reply:Originally Posted by waginYour geo location will influence the average labor costs. Are you going to purchase materials, design, cut to size, finish surfaces post weld? If not, you will pay for logistics, design, prep, fit, welding, finishing. Also, you mentioned a weight concern..aluminum verses carbon steel. If it's to be a desk... moved once and stationary point on, why is the weight difference an issue? You will save on material and labor costs with the carbon steel.
Reply:Originally Posted by bmxliveitI'm in Orlando Florida.Yes, I'm going to purchase the materials. I've narrowed it down to 3003 aluminum at either 1/16th inch thick or 3/32 thick, or steel sheet, but I really don't understand the differences/which would be best if I use steel.  I have the design/blueprint drawn up.  I can cut it (my buddy has appropriate tools)  The only thing I need done is the welding. I can clean it up and finish it on my own.  Weight is not necessarily an issue, but who knows!  Carbon steel plate for the same size as the aluminum is more expensive, but that might be the website I'm looking at.Thanks guys.
Reply:He pretty much has it all planned out for you herehttp://forums.bit-tech.net/showthread.php?t=197139I don't think you want to know what that desk will cost for someone else to fabricate it.Ed Conleyhttp://www.screamingbroccoli.com/MM252MM211 (Sold)Passport Plus & Spool gunLincoln SP135 Plus- (Gone to a good home)Klutch 120v Plasma cutterSO 2020 benderBeer in the fridge
Reply:I read somewhere that there is already a firm planning on replicating a model of the desk for sale but I'm sure it will not be cheap either.  On and I would recommend using tempered glass over plexi b/c glass will be much more resilient to scratching.
Reply:I see that you live in Orlando, Fl (I am too)...There's lots of good places you could go for help.  If you in the downtown area check out 'Badger Welding' or go see the guys over at Alumitech, they an aluminum fab and airboat shop.PS I wouldn't buy material before hand...Most weld/fab shops will have commercial accounts and get better prices on material that you can walking off the street. And you don't have to worry about buying extra, the wrong stuff, or transporting it.